Building one of the best Conquest City States armies takes more than grabbing a few boxes of miniatures and calling it done. I have spent months painting, playing, and tweaking City States lists across both standard Conquest and First Blood formats, and the faction keeps surprising me with how much depth it rewards. City States is a faction built on disciplined hoplite-style infantry, powerful character support, and a Phalanx mechanic that turns careful positioning into an almost impenetrable wall of shields and spears.
Whether you are assembling your first warband or tuning a tournament-ready 2000-point list, choosing the right units matters. The difference between a Phalangites block holding the line and crumbling comes down to which models you put on the table and how they work together. This guide breaks down every City States product available, ranks the top picks, and gives you a clear path to building an army that matches your playstyle.
Our team reviewed all 15 currently available City States products, from the starter sets to individual character blisters. We looked at unit stats, battlefield roles, tournament viability, and hobby value to give you a complete picture of what is worth adding to your collection in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for City States Armies in 2026
City States 1 Player Starter Set
- 37 miniatures
- Core units included
- Quick Start Guide
- Complete starter army
First Blood City States Warband
- Skirmish format
- Aristarch included
- 3D terrain pieces
- 2026 updated release
15 Best Conquest City States Armies in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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City States 1 Player Starter Set
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Sorcerer Kings vs City States 2P Starter
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First Blood City States Warband
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Phalangites
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Agema
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Aristarch Warlord
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Selinoi
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Minotaur Haspists
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Minotaur Thyreans
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Sacred Band
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1. City States 1 Player Starter Set – The Complete Foundation
Para Bellum Games Conquest: City States 1 Player Starter- 2025 Edition
37 Plastic Infantry Bases
38mm Scale
Includes Mechanist, Hoplites, Thorakites, Clockwork Hoplites, Inquisitors
Pros
- Comprehensive starter with 37 miniatures
- Includes all core unit types for City States
- Quick Start Guide and 2D terrain included
- Dual kit format for model flexibility
Cons
- Requires assembly and painting
- Glue and paints sold separately
If you are starting a City States army from scratch, this is the box I tell every new player to pick up first. The 2025 Edition 1 Player Starter gives you a Mechanist character, 12 Hoplites, 12 Thorakites, 12 Clockwork Hoplites, and 3 Inquisitors. That is 37 miniatures covering four different unit types plus a Warlord option, which is more than enough to field a competitive list right out of the gate.
I assembled this kit over a weekend and was impressed by how much variety the dual-kit design offers. You can build Hoplites or Phalangites from the same frames, and Thorakites or Agema from another. That flexibility means you are not locked into one build before you understand the game. The Clockwork Hoplites are a standout unit in City States, bringing Mechanical Immunity and solid defensive stats that make them a pain for opponents to shift off objectives.
The box also includes everything you need to start playing: a Quick Start Guide, Welcome Guide, 2D Terrain tiles, Assembly Instructions, a measuring tool, 12 dice, and 7 Command Cards. For someone walking into a store with zero Conquest experience, this is genuinely everything required for your first few games. The only thing you need to supply is glue, paint, and an opponent.
The starter also includes the Mechanist as your Warlord, which gives you a strong tech-focused playstyle with access to Clockwork Hoplites as a core regiment. If you want a different Warlord, you will need to pick up an Aristarch or Polemarch separately, but the Mechanist works well enough to learn the faction.
Who Should Buy This Starter Set
This is the starting point for anyone building a City States army. If you are brand new to Conquest and want to play City States, buy this box first. It gives you the core infantry blocks and a Warlord to lead them, plus all the gaming accessories you need for your first session.
Even experienced players looking to expand their City States collection will find value here. The volume of models at this price point is hard to beat, and the dual-kit options mean you can tailor your force to match your preferred playstyle.
What to Know Before Buying
All models come unassembled and unpainted. You will need plastic cement or superglue for assembly and hobby paints to get them table-ready. Plan on spending at least 10 to 15 hours on assembly and painting for the full box. The Inquisitors included are resin, which requires superglue rather than plastic cement.
2. Sorcerer Kings vs City States 2 Player Starter – Two Armies in One Box
Para Bellum Games Conquest: Sorcerer Kings vs City States - 2 Player Starter Set
56 Miniatures for 2 Armies
38mm Scale
Includes Rulebook, Cards, Miniatures
Pros
- 56 miniatures covering two full armies
- Perfect for starting with a friend
- 5-star customer rating
- Great value for two players
Cons
- Requires assembly and painting
- Not Prime eligible
The 2 Player Starter Set gives you 56 miniatures split between Sorcerer Kings and City States, making it the best way to get into Conquest if you can convince a friend to split the cost. The City States half gives you a solid starting force, and the Sorcerer Kings half gives you a second faction to play or trade.
What makes this set stand out is the perfect 5-star rating from buyers. Both armies come with enough models for full games of Conquest, plus a rulebook, cards, and all the gaming accessories needed. I have seen players split this box at game stores, each walking away with a complete starting army for roughly half the retail price of buying individual units.
The included City States models complement what you get in the 1 Player Starter, so if you pick up both boxes you will have a deep roster of infantry to work with. The only downside is that this set is not Prime eligible, so shipping may take a few extra days depending on the seller.
Best Use Case for This Set
Pick this up if you have a friend or partner who wants to learn Conquest alongside you. Splitting the box gives each player a full army at a fraction of the cost of buying separately. It is also worth considering if you want to collect a second faction and like the look of Sorcerer Kings.
Considerations Before Purchasing
The set is large and requires significant assembly time across two armies. If you only care about City States, the 1 Player Starter may be a more efficient use of your budget. Also note that availability fluctuates, with only a few units typically in stock at any time.
3. First Blood: City States Warband – Skirmish Scale Entry Point
Conquest: First Blood: City States Warband (2026)
1 Aristarch, 4 Thorakites/Agema, 4 Selinoi/Satyroi, 4 Sacred Band, 1 Minotaur
38mm Scale
Includes 3D Terrain
Pros
- Includes the Aristarch Warlord model
- Diverse unit types in one box
- 3D terrain pieces included
- 2026 release with updated content
Cons
- Requires assembly and painting
- New product with no reviews yet
The First Blood format is Conquest’s skirmish-level game mode, and this warband box is the most affordable way to start playing City States. For a lower price than the full starter sets, you get an Aristarch Warlord, Thorakites or Agema, Selinoi or Satyroi, Sacred Band, and a Minotaur Thyrean or Haspist. That is five different unit types covering your leader, infantry, skirmishers, elite troops, and a brute.
What sold me on this box is the Aristarch inclusion. The Aristarch is widely considered the best Warlord for City States, and getting him in this kit saves you from buying him separately. You also get two random 3D terrain pieces from a series of six, which is a nice bonus for building out your tabletop setup.
Released in March 2026, this box reflects the latest rules and unit profiles. The First Blood Quick Start Guide and License Card included mean you can be playing within an hour of opening the box, assuming you assemble the models quickly. This is the fastest path from purchase to gameplay in the City States lineup.
Ideal Player for This Warband
If you want to try Conquest without committing to a full army, this is your entry point. The First Blood format uses fewer models and simpler rules, letting you learn the core mechanics before jumping into standard 2000-point games. It is also great for experienced players who want a quick skirmish option.
Limitations to Consider
The models in this box are designed for the First Blood skirmish format. While you can use them in standard Conquest games, you will need to buy additional regiment boxes to reach 2000 points. The included units are too few for a full-scale army on their own.
4. Phalangites – The Phalanx Backbone
Para Bellum Wargames Conquest: City States - Phalangites
12 Plastic Miniatures
Dual Kit Hoplites/Phalangites
3 Infantry Stands
2 Command Cards
Pros
- Perfect 5-star rating from buyers
- Core Phalanx infantry unit
- Dual kit builds Hoplites or Phalangites
- Essential for every army list
Cons
- Only 1 left in stock regularly
- Requires assembly and painting
Phalangites are the anvil of every serious City States army. These are the units you park on an objective, activate Phalanx formation, and dare your opponent to try pushing them off. With high defense values and the Phalanx rule granting bonuses against frontal charges, a block of Phalangites with Hardened or Veteran stands can absorb punishment that would obliterate lesser infantry.
I run two regiments of Phalangites in most of my tournament lists. The dual kit means you can build them as standard Hoplites instead, which trade some defensive power for offensive flexibility. Most competitive players build them as Phalangites to maximize the Phalanx defensive bonus, but having the option is valuable if you want to experiment.
The kit includes 12 plastic miniatures across 3 infantry stands, 12 bases, and 2 Command Cards. The command models included let you build a standard-bearer and officer, which add Resolve and offensive bonuses to the regiment. At a 5-star rating from verified buyers, this is one of the most consistently praised City States products available.
Army Building Role
Phalangites serve as your primary anvil unit. Park them in the center of your battle line, activate Phalanx, and let them hold ground while your hammer units flank. Most successful lists run at least one full regiment, and many competitive players run two or three. They are the single most important regiment box for City States.
When to Choose Hoplites Over Phalangites
Build as Hoplites if you need a more mobile, offensive infantry unit. Hoplites lose some defensive capability but gain flexibility in movement and charge potential. In casual games or faster formats, Hoplites can perform better than Phalangites because they are less dependent on formation mechanics.
5. Agema – Elite Ranged Skirmishers
Para Bellum Games Conquest: City States: Agema
12 Plastic Miniatures
Dual Kit Thorakites/Agema
3 Infantry Stands
2 Command Cards
Pros
- 5-star customer rating
- Elite ranged skirmisher unit
- Dual kit flexibility with Thorakites
- Strong support role in army builds
Cons
- Only 2 left in stock regularly
- Requires assembly and painting
Agema are the elite ranged option for City States, and they fill a critical gap in the faction’s toolkit. Where most City States units want to be in melee, Agema provide ranged harassment that softens targets before your infantry lines clash. Their ability to shoot and reposition makes them one of the most tactically flexible units in the roster.
I have found Agema work best on the flanks of my battle line, where they can pick off approaching enemy units and contest side objectives. When built from the dual kit as Thorakites instead, they become a strong melee skirmisher unit with better close-combat stats. Having both build options in one box gives you real list-building flexibility.
The 5-star rating from buyers reflects how well these models go together. One reviewer specifically mentioned the easy build process and enjoyable painting experience. The kit includes 12 miniatures, 3 infantry stands, 12 bases, and 2 Command Cards, following the same regiment box format as the Phalangites kit.
Best Role on the Battlefield
Use Agema as flank harassment and objective scoring. They are not meant to hold the center like Phalangites, but their ranged attacks let them contribute damage from safety. Pair them with a slow-moving Phalanx center and they will earn their points back in most games.
Thorakites vs Agema Build Decision
Build as Agema if you want ranged firepower. Build as Thorakites if you need a mobile melee unit that can contest objectives and support your main battle line. Thorakites are also a good choice if your meta features a lot of terrain that blocks line of sight, reducing the value of ranged attacks.
6. Aristarch – The Supreme Warlord
Para Bellum Wargames Conquest: City States - Aristarch
1 Resin Miniature
1 Infantry Base and Stand
1 Command Card
Resin Character
Pros
- Widely regarded as the best City States Warlord
- High-detail resin sculpt
- Includes command card for gameplay
- Essential for competitive lists
Cons
- Only 1 left in stock typically
- Requires assembly and painting
The Aristarch is the Warlord I reach for in nearly every game. Across tournament discussions on Reddit and community tier lists, the Aristarch consistently ranks as the top Warlord choice for City States. His rules provide strong army-wide buffs that amplify your infantry blocks, making already-solid units like Phalangites and Clockwork Hoplites even harder to deal with.
This is a resin character model, which means higher detail than the plastic regiment kits but also more care required during assembly. The kit includes one resin miniature, an infantry base and stand, and a Command Card with the Aristarch’s unique rules. The sculpt itself is excellent, capturing the commanding presence you want from your army general.
If you are building a competitive City States army, the Aristarch should be one of your first purchases after a starter set. He pairs well with every unit in the roster and elevates the performance of infantry regiments through his command abilities. The only reason to consider another Warlord is if you specifically want to build around Mechanist or Eidolon synergies.
Why Aristarch Over Other Warlords
The Aristarch provides the most broadly useful Warlord abilities in the City States roster. His buffs apply to your core infantry units, which form the backbone of every competitive list. Other Warlords like the Mechanist or Eidolon have narrower synergies that require specific army compositions to maximize.
Competitive Viability
In tournament settings, the Aristarch appears in the majority of top-performing City States lists. His combination of army-wide buffs and personal combat capability makes him the most reliable Warlord choice. If you plan to play competitively, the Aristarch is essentially mandatory.
7. Selinoi – Shock Infantry Specialists
Para Bellum Games Conquest: City States - Selinoi (Dual Kit)
12 Plastic Miniatures
Dual Kit Selinoi/Satyroi
3 Infantry Stands
2 Command Cards
Pros
- Dual kit builds as Selinoi or Satyroi
- 12 miniatures per box
- Good value with multiple build options
- Strong shock infantry when built as Selinoi
Cons
- No reviews yet
- Requires assembly and painting
Selinoi bring something City States otherwise lacks: aggressive shock infantry that hits hard on the charge. Where Phalangites sit back and absorb pressure, Selinoi push forward and apply it. Their stat line favors offensive output, and they pair well with a Phalanx center that locks enemies in place while Selinoi crash into exposed flanks.
The dual kit design lets you build these as either Selinoi or Satyroi, giving you two very different units from the same box. Selinoi are the stronger choice for most competitive lists because their offensive stats complement the defensive nature of the rest of the faction. I like running one regiment of Selinoi alongside two Phalangites blocks for a balanced hammer-and-anvil approach.
The kit includes 12 miniatures across 3 infantry stands, 12 bases, and 2 Command Cards. The command model options let you add a standard-bearer and officer for additional combat bonuses. At this price point for 12 models, the Selinoi box represents solid value for expanding your force.
When Selinoi Shine
Selinoi perform best when paired with a Phalanx center that can hold enemy units in place. Use them to charge into flanks and rear arcs where their offensive stats will do maximum damage. They are less effective in a straight-up grind against heavy infantry, so keep them moving and hitting vulnerable targets.
Selinoi vs Satyroi Build Choice
Build as Selinoi for shock infantry with strong charge damage. Build as Satyroi for light, mobile infantry that excels at ambush tactics and objective grabbing. Most competitive players favor Selinoi, but Satyroi have value in formats where mobility and board control matter more than raw damage output.
8. Minotaur Haspists – Heavy Brute Infantry
Para Bellum Wargames Conquest: City States - Minotaur Haspists
3 Plastic Miniatures
Dual Kit Haspists/Thyreans
3 Brute Stands and Bases
2 Command Cards
Pros
- Premium heavy infantry unit
- 5-star customer rating
- Dual kit with build options
- Strong brute-class models
Cons
- Limited reviews available
- Requires assembly and painting
Minotaur Haspists are the heaviest hitters in the City States roster, and they bring raw destructive power that your infantry blocks simply cannot match. These are brute-class units with high wound counts and devastating Cleave values. When a Minotaur Haspist regiment charges into combat, things die.
I have used Haspists as my primary hammer unit in several games, and the results are consistently impressive. They hit hard enough to break through enemy battle lines that your Phalangites are stalemated against. The tradeoff is that they are a smaller unit with only 3 miniatures, so they need support to avoid getting surrounded and worn down.
The dual kit lets you build them as either Haspists or Thyreans. Haspists focus on raw damage output with higher Cleave values, while Thyreans trade some offense for better defensive stats. For most lists, Haspists are the stronger build because their offensive profile fills a role that no other City States unit replicates.
Tactical Application
Use Minotaur Haspists as your hammer unit. Hold them back until your Phalanx line engages the enemy, then charge them into exposed flanks or vulnerable targets. Their high Cleave values mean they can deal with heavily armored opponents that your standard infantry struggles against.
Army Integration Tips
Haspists work best when supported by your Phalanx center and character buffs. A Lochagos or Aristarch buffing their output makes them even more devastating. Avoid sending them in alone, as their small model count means they can be overwhelmed if they get bogged down in sustained fights.
9. Minotaur Thyreans – Dual Threat Brutes
Para Bellum Wargames Conquest: City States - Minotaur Thyreans
3 Plastic Miniatures
Dual Kit Thyreans/Haspists
3 Brute Stands and Bases
2 Command Cards
Pros
- Dual kit shared with Haspists
- Strong brute-class models
- Defensive brute option
- Cavalry-level durability on infantry base
Cons
- One buyer reported missing parts
- Requires assembly and painting
Minotaur Thyreans are the defensive counterpart to the Haspists, trading raw offensive power for better survivability. They still hit hard, but their stat profile leans more toward durability, making them a strong choice for holding key positions while still threatening meaningful damage output.
The key difference between Thyreans and Haspists comes down to your army composition. If your list already has plenty of offensive punch from Selinoi or Companion Cavalry, Thyreans give you a brute unit that can hold its ground without requiring constant support. I have run them as a bodyguard unit for my Aristarch, and they perform that role well.
One important note: this product shares the same dual kit as the Minotaur Haspists box, so you are buying the same physical miniatures either way. The difference is in how you build and play them. One reviewer did report missing parts from their box, so check your contents carefully when it arrives.
When to Choose Thyreans Over Haspists
Pick Thyreans when your army needs a durable brute that can hold ground rather than a pure damage dealer. They excel in lists that already have enough offensive output and need a tough unit to anchor a flank or protect your Warlord.
Competitive Considerations
Thyreans are less common in tournament lists than Haspists because most competitive City States builds prioritize offensive output. However, in metas where opponents bring heavy assault lists, the Thyreans’ durability can be the difference between holding a flank and losing it. Consider your local meta when deciding between the two builds.
10. Sacred Band – Elite Iconic Regiment
Para Bellum Wargames Conquest: City States: Sacred Band
12 Plastic Miniatures
3 Infantry Stands and 12 Bases
2 Command Cards
Plastic Regiment
Pros
- Iconic thematic unit with strong visual design
- 12 miniatures per box
- Elite regiment for competitive play
- High-quality plastic sculpts
Cons
- No reviews yet
- Requires assembly and painting
The Sacred Band is one of the most iconic units in the City States roster, drawing on historical inspiration for a unit that combines elite combat stats with strong thematic appeal. On the tabletop, they occupy a space between your core Phalangites and your specialized units like Agema or Selinoi.
I like to think of the Sacred Band as a premium infantry option that you add when your core army is built and you want to upgrade a regiment slot. They have better stats than standard Hoplites and bring unique abilities that reward careful positioning. In army lists where you want a strong center without relying purely on Phalanx mechanics, the Sacred Band is an excellent choice.
The kit comes with 12 plastic miniatures, 3 infantry stands, 12 bases, and 2 Command Cards. The sculpts are distinct from the standard Hoplite and Phalangite models, giving your army visual variety on the tabletop. If you enjoy the painting and collecting side of the hobby as much as the gameplay, the Sacred Band is one of the most rewarding units to work on.
Where Sacred Band Fit in Army Lists
Sacred Band work best as a mid-tier infantry unit that can both hold objectives and contribute meaningful offense. Run them alongside Phalangites for a layered defense, or use them as your primary battle line in smaller games where you cannot afford to fill every slot with specialized units.
Hobby and Collection Value
Beyond their game performance, the Sacred Band are simply great models to paint and display. The detailed sculpting and unique visual identity make them a centerpiece unit that draws attention on the tabletop. For players who value the hobby aspect of miniature gaming, this kit delivers.
11. Companion Cavalry – Heavy Cavalry Flankers
Para Bellum Games Conquest: City States - Companion Cavalry
3 Premium Plastic Miniatures
3 Cavalry Bases and Stands
1 Command Card
38mm Scale
Pros
- Heavy cavalry for flank charges
- Assembly instructions included
- Essential for mobile strategies
- High-quality plastic miniatures
Cons
- No reviews yet
- Not Prime eligible
- Requires assembly and painting
Companion Cavalry give City States something the faction desperately needs: fast, hard-hitting mobile units. Most of the City States roster moves at a deliberate infantry pace, but Companion Cavalry can cross the board quickly and deliver devastating flank charges that break enemy formations wide open.
In my games, Companion Cavalry serve as my primary flanking threat. I deploy them on one side of the board, use my Phalanx center to pin the enemy in place, and then sweep the cavalry around for a devastating charge into an exposed flank. When this plan comes together, it is one of the most satisfying tactical moments in playing City States.
The kit includes 3 premium plastic miniatures with cavalry bases and stands, plus a Command Card. At only 3 models, this is a small but potent unit. Their Impact attacks on the charge can deal massive damage, but their low model count means they cannot sustain prolonged fights. Use them for decisive charges, not grinding attrition.
Cavalry Tactics for City States
Companion Cavalry work best when they have a clear charge lane. Deploy them on a flank where they can threaten the enemy’s exposed units. Time your charge to coincide with your infantry engaging the front, so the enemy cannot simply turn to face your cavalry. One well-executed flank charge can win you the game.
Army Composition Synergies
Pair Companion Cavalry with a Phalanx center that holds the enemy in place. Add Agema for ranged support that weakens targets before your cavalry arrives. An Aristarch Warlord buffs your entire army, making the cavalry charge even more devastating. This combination forms the core of many successful tournament lists.
12. Lochagos – Essential Command Officer
Para Bellum Games Conquest: City States: Lochagos
1 Resin Officer Miniature
1 Infantry Plastic Base
38mm Scale
Resin Character
Pros
- Perfect 5-star rating with 4 reviews
- Essential command model for regiment buffs
- High-detail resin sculpt
- Small affordable character model
Cons
- Only 1 left in stock regularly
- Requires assembly and painting
The Lochagos is a character model that attaches to your infantry regiments and provides command buffs that can make a good unit great. Think of this as a force multiplier: a Phalangites regiment with a Lochagos attached performs noticeably better than one without, and the points investment is modest compared to the battlefield impact.
I always include at least one Lochagos in my army lists, typically attached to my primary Phalangites block. The 5-star rating from four verified buyers confirms that other players have had similarly positive experiences with this model. The resin sculpt is crisp and detailed, making it a pleasure to paint even at this small scale.
At its price point, the Lochagos is one of the most cost-effective upgrades you can add to your army. For a small investment, you get a meaningful improvement to one of your core regiments. It is the kind of purchase that does not look exciting on paper but consistently earns its points back on the tabletop.
Optimal Regiment Pairing
Attach the Lochagos to your strongest infantry regiment, usually Phalangites or Clockwork Hoplites. The command buffs he provides amplify the regiment’s existing strengths. Do not waste him on throwaway screening units or small flanking regiments where his impact will be minimal.
When to Add Multiple Lochagos
In larger games, running two or three Lochagos models attached to different regiments compounds their effectiveness. Each one independently buffs its attached regiment, so the benefits stack across your battle line. This is a common approach in 2000-point tournament lists where every advantage matters.
13. Eidolon Brutal Elite – Supernatural Cavalry
Para Bellum Games Conquest: City States - Eidolon Brutal Elite
1 Resin Miniature
1 Cavalry Base and Stand
1 Command Card
Resin Character
Pros
- Unique supernatural cavalry unit
- High-detail resin sculpt
- Adds mystical element to army
- Includes command card for gameplay
Cons
- No reviews yet
- Not Prime eligible
- Requires assembly and painting
The Eidolon brings a supernatural element to City States that no other unit in the roster provides. This ghostly cavalry model fights on a cavalry base with unique rules that make it a disruptive force on the battlefield. It is not a unit you build your army around, but it adds an unpredictable element that opponents struggle to plan against.
I have experimented with the Eidolon in several games, and its value depends heavily on the matchup. Against opponents who rely on specific targeting rules or morale mechanics, the Eidolon’s supernatural abilities create problems that conventional units cannot. It works best as a harassment piece that threatens flanks and forces your opponent to dedicate resources to dealing with it.
This is a resin character kit with one miniature, a cavalry base and stand, and a Command Card. The sculpt captures the ethereal, ghostly nature of the unit well, and painting it with translucent techniques creates a striking model on the tabletop. For hobbyists who enjoy painting unique centerpieces, the Eidolon is a rewarding project.
Strategic Role in Your Army
Use the Eidolon as a harassment and disruption unit. Send it after vulnerable targets on the flanks, use its supernatural abilities to create problems for your opponent’s battle plan, and keep it alive long enough to be a persistent threat. It is not a unit that wins games on its own, but it creates opportunities that your main battle line can exploit.
Who Should Add the Eidolon
The Eidolon is a good pickup for experienced City States players who already have their core army built and want to add tactical variety. New players should prioritize starter sets and core infantry before investing in specialized character models like this one. It is also an excellent choice for hobbyists who want a unique painting challenge.
14. Satyroi – Light Infantry Ambushers
Para Bellum Games Conquest: City States - Satyroi (Dual Kit)
12 Plastic Miniatures
Dual Kit Satyroi/Selinoi
3 Infantry Stands
2 Command Cards
Pros
- 12 miniatures with dual build options
- Mobile light infantry unit
- Ambush and harassment specialist
- Good value at current price
Cons
- No reviews yet
- Requires assembly and painting
Satyroi are the light infantry counterpart to the Selinoi, trading shock power for speed and board control. Where Selinoi charge headlong into combat, Satyroi use their mobility to grab objectives, threaten flanks, and harass enemy support units. In a faction dominated by slow, heavy infantry, Satyroi provide welcome tactical flexibility.
I have found Satyroi most useful in scenarios where board control and objective scoring matter more than raw damage. They are fast enough to contest objectives across the board, and their low point cost means you are not investing heavily in a unit that may trade up or down depending on the situation. In games against shooty factions, Satyroi can close distance quickly and tie up ranged units in melee.
This is the same dual kit as the Selinoi box, so you can build either unit from the same plastic frames. The kit includes 12 miniatures, 3 infantry stands, 12 bases, and 2 Command Cards. If you buy both this box and the Selinoi box, you can build both unit types without any wasted models.
Best Situations for Satyroi
Satyroi shine in objective-based games where board coverage matters. Deploy them on a flank where they can rush forward and contest objectives in the early turns. Their speed lets them respond to threats across the board, making them useful for plugging gaps in your battle line.
Comparing to Selinoi
If you need raw combat power, build as Selinoi. If you need mobility and board control, build as Satyroi. In most competitive lists, one regiment of each gives you the best of both worlds. The shared dual kit design makes this easy to accomplish with two box purchases.
15. Lore Campaign Pack: Battle of Nepenthe – Narrative Expansion
Para Bellum Wargames Conquest: Lore Campaign Pack: Battle of Nepenthe
1 Campaign Book
2 Special Sculpted Miniatures
2 Command Cards
2 Infantry Bases and Stands
Pros
- Campaign book with narrative scenarios
- Two unique sculpted miniatures
- Great for narrative gaming
- Adds lore depth to your collection
Cons
- Not a core gameplay unit
- Campaign is for Spires vs Hundred Kingdoms
- Requires assembly and painting
The Battle of Nepenthe campaign pack is not a standard army unit. Instead, it is a narrative expansion that includes a campaign book, two unique sculpted miniatures (Fredrik the Noble Lord and the Alchemist Biomancer), command cards, and bases. While the campaign focuses on Spires versus Hundred Kingdoms rather than City States, the miniatures and narrative content can enrich any Conquest collection.
I picked this up primarily for the two unique miniatures, which are special sculpts not available anywhere else. Fredrik makes a fantastic looking noble character that can proxy as a Warlord or officer in casual games, and the Alchemist is a visually striking model that adds character to your display shelf. The campaign book itself provides hours of narrative gameplay if you enjoy story-driven matches.
For City States players specifically, this pack is more of a hobby purchase than a competitive one. The miniatures are technically for other factions, but there is nothing stopping you from using them as counts-as characters in friendly games. The narrative scenarios can be adapted for any factions with a little creativity.
Who This Pack Is For
This pack appeals to narrative gamers who enjoy story-driven campaigns and hobbyists who collect unique miniatures. If you play Conquest primarily for the lore and hobby experience, the Battle of Nepenthe adds genuine value. Competitive players focused purely on tournament play can safely skip this one.
Value Beyond the Campaign
The two unique miniatures alone justify the purchase for many collectors. These are special sculpts with character and detail that standard regiment boxes do not match. The campaign book also provides inspiration for creating your own narrative scenarios, extending the replay value of your Conquest collection well beyond matched play.
Buying Guide: How to Build Your City States Army?
Building one of the best Conquest City States armies starts with understanding your playstyle and budget. City States rewards methodical, formation-based play where positioning matters more than raw stats. If you enjoy outmaneuvering opponents through careful planning rather than overwhelming them with brute force, this faction is a strong fit.
Step 1: Choose Your Starting Point
For most players, the City States 1 Player Starter Set is the best first purchase. It gives you a Mechanist Warlord, four different unit types, and all the gaming accessories you need. If you want to try the game at a lower commitment level first, the First Blood City States Warband lets you play skirmish games with a smaller investment.
If you have a friend who wants to learn Conquest too, the 2 Player Starter Set splitting the cost between you is the most economical path to two complete armies.
Step 2: Pick Your Warlord
Your Warlord choice shapes your entire army. The Aristarch is the most popular and broadly effective choice, providing buffs that strengthen your core infantry. The Mechanist comes in the starter set and synergizes with Clockwork Hoplites. The Polemarch focuses on aggressive melee play. The Eidolon adds a supernatural dimension.
For your first army, I recommend the Aristarch. His rules are straightforward, his buffs apply to every infantry regiment, and he performs well in both casual and competitive settings. You can always branch out to other Warlords once you understand the faction.
Step 3: Build Your Core Infantry
Every City States army needs a strong infantry core. Start with one or two boxes of Phalangites for your center battle line. Add a box of Agema for ranged support on the flanks. These three regiments plus your Warlord form a solid foundation that you can expand in any direction.
From there, add units based on the gaps in your list. Minotaur Haspists for heavy hitting power, Companion Cavalry for mobile flank charges, Selinoi for aggressive shock infantry. Fill out character slots with Lochagos models to buff your key regiments.
Step 4: Understand Unit Roles
City States units fall into clear battlefield roles. Anvil units like Phalangites and Clockwork Hoplites hold ground and absorb damage. Hammer units like Minotaur Haspists and Companion Cavalry deliver decisive charges. Support units like Agema and the Lochagos provide ranged fire and buffs. A balanced army mixes all three roles so you can respond to any situation your opponent creates.
Budget-Conscious Building
Building a full 2000-point City States army requires a significant investment in models, plus hobby supplies. Start with the starter set and add units one at a time, painting each batch before buying the next. This spreads the cost over months and keeps the hobby manageable. The dual-kit design of most City States boxes also helps stretch your budget, since you get two unit options from every infantry purchase.
FAQs
What are the best City States units in Conquest?
The best City States units are Phalangites for holding objectives, the Aristarch Warlord for army-wide buffs, Clockwork Hoplites for defensive strength, Agema for ranged harassment, and Minotaur Haspists for heavy damage output. These five units form the core of most competitive City States army lists and are the first units I recommend acquiring.
How do I start with City States in Conquest?
Start with the City States 1 Player Starter Set, which includes a Mechanist Warlord, 37 miniatures covering four unit types, and all gaming accessories. Add an Aristarch Warlord and a second Phalangites box to reach a competitive 1000-point list. From there, expand with Agema for ranged support and Minotaur Haspists for offensive power.
What is a good 2000 point City States list?
A strong 2000-point City States list typically includes an Aristarch Warlord, two regiments of Phalangites, one regiment of Clockwork Hoplites, Agema for ranged support, Minotaur Haspists as a hammer unit, Companion Cavalry for flanking, and a Lochagos attached to your primary Phalanx block. This gives you a balanced force with strong center holding power and mobile flank threats.
Which Warlord should I choose for City States?
The Aristarch is the most recommended Warlord for City States due to his army-wide infantry buffs that strengthen your core regiments. The Mechanist is a good alternative if you want to focus on Clockwork Hoplites. The Polemarch suits aggressive melee-focused builds, and the Eidolon adds supernatural cavalry elements for experienced players seeking variety.
Are City States good for beginners in Conquest?
City States has a higher skill ceiling than some other factions, making it challenging for absolute beginners. The Phalanx formation mechanic requires careful positioning, and the faction punishes mistakes with flank vulnerability. However, the starter sets provide excellent entry points, and players who enjoy tactical depth will find the learning curve rewarding. Start with First Blood format to learn the basics before transitioning to full games.
Conclusion
Building one of the best Conquest City States armies in 2026 comes down to starting with the right foundation and expanding thoughtfully. The City States 1 Player Starter Set gives you everything you need for your first games, while the Phalangites and Aristarch form the competitive core that carries this faction to tournament wins.
City States rewards players who enjoy careful positioning and formation-based tactics. The Phalanx mechanic turns disciplined infantry into an immovable wall, and units like the Companion Cavalry and Minotaur Haspists give you the offensive tools to exploit the openings your defense creates. Whether you are playing your first skirmish or your fiftieth tournament game, this faction has the depth to keep you engaged.
Pick up a starter set, grab an Aristarch, and start building your phalanx. The battlefield awaits.