[Tuidjy]

> Early game counters: Trampling units

I do not think that any of our nations have tramplers. And good luck getting
them in range. These are massed crossbows we are talking about.

> star fires,

No. Assuming the very best of luck, star fires will kill two midgets per shot.
This will not make a dent in the horde, and the mages will be in range.

> air shield bless

Very expensive to be effective, and works only on blessed. Furthermore, the
midgets are anything but easy to kill. Insane defense and heavy armour means
that in addition of the air bless you would need a fire bless. And an earth
bless, because the horde takes a long time killing.

> tangle vines

Very short range, no damage, and even with low strength, the midgets have a
decent chance to break out. There will be enough of them, unfortunately.

> Repeater crossbows make for good counters, too

Not really. He will be getting a kill with nearly every hit, you will be
getting a kill with about a quarter of yours. And his guys will be more
numerous, less expensive, will have a shield, and will outrange you. Good
luck getting anywhere as many hits, even with a shot every turn.

-----------------

In middle and late game, the midgets will not be a problem. They can do next
to nothing against thugs, and Evo5+ spells will eat them alive. But by that
time, they will have easily ruined 1-2 players.

And by the way, why is it that size one guys have higher strength and the same
health as humans? Dwarves this tough should be size two.