I’ve been playing Ariadna for a couple of years. I like the SAS model and the idea of the MA infiltrator, but I never feel like I have the points or a role for it. If you use SAS in Vanilla, what role does it fill? I feel like we have cheaper options for any role it could fill.
I don't think there is better close range inflitrating killer than assault pistol SAS. None of the other inflitrations does the 0-8 killing as well as SAS, I feel like. Except Uxia obviously. And that's probably the only inflitrator (except Uxia) that I would try inflitrating beyond my half of the table just because if it works it is an executioner. Don't underestimate grenades and speculative fire, especially since you can easily get into range with order or two due to infltration in the first place. It is also the only profile I ever use (FO in Caledonia is an obvious exception). With that said - I always try to include them, yet rarely do find a points for it - but that's my problem with Araidna overall - so many cool profiles I'd like to use yet have trouble fitting into my list. It's great as response piece that takes vengance upon the enemies that went past the middle line of the board.
Thanks for the thoughts. I like the idea of them, but if I want to just throw something across the table, I can get 2 infiltrating grunts for the same price and they have a heavy flamer. Or impetuous moving Mavericks with FD get just about as close. I know SAS have things over those models, but I haven’t made them work yet.
In vanilla there are just SO many better options for mid field specialists, they are just not really worth their points. If you are going to attempt to drop on the opponent's side of the board, look at the the Scout with boarding shotgun, surprise shooting with a shock boarding shotgun is always fun, they also have D-charges makings them a good option for Sabotage, and they come with landmines for more shock templates.
And Pavel McManus has kinda taken their game and gone pro as far as CC camo markers go. He has one hell of an opening swing. But also is a specialist and has a decent gun too. (And two options for template weapons)
Pavel is also 9 points more expensive than the CR/AP SAS, can't start as close, and loses cover/can't go back into camo the turn after he hurts someone. Pavel is a great all-rounder though I really like his profile.
I’m not sure Pavel is the answer. He’s a great profile, but he definitely pays for it. Even the 3 extra points for the scout starts to shift the role. It just seems that as a throwaway, the 11-15 point options are better. And if you want something that’s going to hang around, there are better options 25+. Maybe the SAS could replace antipodes for a fast hitter, but I’m not sure it’s quite good enough.
I think that in vanilla, the only SAS profile that I would consider using is the CRAP profile, because I don't think it does anything that anyone else does in vanilla, and packs quite a punch at close range. But that is the only SAS profile I would use in vanilla, because I can get FOs and shotguns for cheaper with foxtrots. I think that the SAS have more of a role in CHA; my favorite way to use them is have the FO infiltrate up to the halfway point on the board and pick off targets of opportunity or complete objectives, but I wouldn't use him to engage any serious heavy hitters. He's more for shooting lightly armored units in the back and bullying troops with less CC ability if you decide to go that route. Again, I also like the SASCRAP profile, and use him basically as an annoyance that has to be dealt with, otherwise that chain rifle and spec-fire grenades might start causing some serious problems for your opponent.
My 2p; In Vanilla, I'd either go for CRAP, (as everyone else), or the one with grenades cos spec firing from camo can be very nice; especially as infiltration means you should already be in good range. Otherwise, I wouldn't bother; the other "common" load-outs, (BSG and FO - IMO), are beaten by other types, (Scout and Foxtrot respectively).
I regularly use the CRAP SAS or the one with chain rifle and shot gun in addition to the infiltrating grunts in my vanilla lists. Also, the SAS has martial Arts and thus stealth which is very useful for sneaking up from behind