Barbarian Invasion (BI) expansion for Rome: Total War shifted the gameplay from the offensive expansion of the original game to a defensive "survival" mode, introducing unique unit mechanics and specialized formations.
The barbarian factions are diverse, ranging from settled Germanic kingdoms to nomadic steppe warriors. Their units are generally aggressive, less disciplined than Romans, but often cheaper and more numerous. rome total war barbarian invasion units
The two Roman factions (Western and Eastern) rely on a system of limitanei (garrison troops) and comitatenses (field armies). Their rosters are vast, but their empires are broke. Barbarian Invasion (BI) expansion for Rome: Total War
Elite, high-morale heavy infantry that inspire nearby troops. Essential for holding crucial defensive chokepoints against overwhelming horde numbers. Eastern Roman Empire less disciplined than Romans
Highly skilled ranged cavalry that can devastate armored troops from afar.