Bringing Swords to a Laser Fight

By ObiWonka, in X-Wing Squad Lists

Appropriate name both in that on paper this looks a bit like the X-Wing equivalent of "bringing a knife to a gun fight" and that Sabers are swords and starfighters shoot laser guns. I thought of this list because I wondered if there was anything meaningful you could do with the 1-point difference between Saber Squadron and Royal Guard Pilots. Turns out, you can.

4x Saber Squadron Pilot (21)

+ Autothrusters (2)

+ Elusiveness (2)

You try to take Focus every turn, and hopefully use it for offense, because you have really solid defense with both your upgrades. Even if you have to reposition with Boost or Barrel Roll, both defensive upgrades are passive (not requiring an action). So while it sucks to fire unmodified attack dice, your defense is almost never 'off'. The Interceptor's dial is of course very forgiving, too, so the stress from Elusiveness almost doesn't matter.

The most difficulty you'll have is, somewhat ironically, against flankers. That's because your PS isn't very high, and on top of that (depending on what you're facing, of course) you actually want to fly Interceptors in formation for once. You'll have to do your best to block them and set up shots. Luckily, flankers are most often paired with turrets these days, and there couldn't be better news for this list. Turrets have a very hard time punching through the defensive upgrades. Just make sure you stay out of Range 1, where a higher PS turret might punch damage through or one-shot you. If you're careful, your 3 Hull will last a surprisingly long time. Pay special attention against Gunners, though, as triggering Elusiveness or spending a defensive token at the wrong time could spell disaster.

This list was surprisingly fun and effective to play. Think outside the box!

I would play that list as my 100 points in an epic game ... use it a a flanking squadron