Machaka in CB

[NTJedi]

Morkilus said:
NTJedi, do you actually find them useful when they are buffed, or would other high-protection units do just as well?

What makes the hunter spiders good is the life and above average protection, what makes the hunter spider bad is the cost.
From my experience an army taking new territories will do better spending that gold on Machaka Hoplites. Pound per pound of gold and upkeep, the Hoplites are a better investment unless you're moving into a territory with crossbowmen/longbowmen.

During ugly battles the black hunters will have a better chance of survival at the end because of their life and protection... unless you're going against lots of mages. MR is a weakness they have so have these big spiders avoid the more powerful enemy spellcasters.
From my experience they last longer then most knights and mounted units..... not the rider... the spider.