Can the Witch Hunter Fire with His Melee Weapon in Warhammer 40k?
The question of whether a Witch Hunter can fire his melee weapon in Warhammer 40k is a common one, especially for new players. While the concept might seem counterintuitive, the answer is no, a Witch Hunter cannot fire a weapon while using his melee weapon. This rule applies to all Warhammer 40k games, whether it's the tabletop game or video games like Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War.
Here's the original code for a Witch Hunter's weapon profile in Warhammer 40k:
Witch Hunter
Weapon: Power Sword
Type: Melee
Range: 1"
Attacks: 1
Damage: 1
Weapon: Bolt Pistol
Type: Ranged
Range: 12"
Attacks: 2
Damage: 1
This code clearly shows that the Power Sword is a melee weapon and the Bolt Pistol is a ranged weapon. In Warhammer 40k, you cannot use a melee weapon and a ranged weapon simultaneously. This rule is designed to balance the game and prevent players from overwhelming their opponents with too much firepower.
Why is it this way?
This rule is designed to prevent players from gaining an unfair advantage. Imagine if a Witch Hunter could fire his Bolt Pistol while swinging his Power Sword. He would be able to deal a significant amount of damage both in close combat and at range, making him incredibly powerful. This would disrupt the balance of the game and make other units less effective.
What are the alternatives?
If you want to use both the Power Sword and the Bolt Pistol in the same turn, you will need to make a choice:
- Attack with the Power Sword: This allows you to engage in close combat and inflict damage with your melee weapon.
- Fire the Bolt Pistol: This allows you to attack a target from a distance, but you will not be able to use the Power Sword in the same turn.
Conclusion
While it might seem tempting to use both weapons at the same time, the rule against firing with melee weapons is in place to ensure a fair and balanced game. By understanding these rules, players can make informed decisions about how to best use their units and maximize their effectiveness on the battlefield.
