Newbie questions about Tau

[Acebob]

So I'm starting to get into Battlfleet Gothic and I am interested in playing Tau. From what I understand, there are two Tau lists, The Forge World and the GW lists. Are they interchangeable or must you use them separately? Is one list better than the other? I'm just looking for an overview of how the Tau play in Battlefleet Gothic.

[Kakapo42]

Are they interchangeable or must you use them separately?

You can combine them, but I believe if you do so you must have one or the other as the majority.

Is one list better than the other?

No, the two lists are different, but neither one is better than the other. The main bias stems from visual preferences rather than strength.

I'm just looking for an overview of how the Tau play in Battlefleet Gothic.

I've always said that if you think of BFG in analogies to real world naval warfare, then while most factions operate with age of sail principals, the Tau act more like a modern (i.e. World War II pacific theater onwards) navy. The SG/GW Tau fleet is essentially a carrier force, with the fleet generally arranged in a phalanx formation, with Explorers as the core, Merchants and escorts guarding the carriers and Heroes and Defenders upfront as the spearhead. This fleet is slow and not very agile however, so keep an eye on your flanks.

The FW fleet is different. As of the 2010 FAQ, it has become more of a raiding fleet, with good missile and gunnery capabilities. It lacks some of the raw power of the GW fleet, but makes up for it by being more agile.

[horizon]

Hi,

The GW list in Armada (pdf on their website) is for the GW models only.
It is a strong list, very dependant on attack craft. The Explorer-Hero build fleet is top of the bill.

The FW list as in IA3: Taros Campaign, pdf here:
http://sg.tacticalwargames.net/fanatic/
issue 75

Uses FW models with a ruling to include GW models. A good playable list, yet dullish in development seen the changes in design. Little less dominant then above mentioned build.

The SG list (made by high admirality rules committee in relationship with the community):
http://tinyurl.com/23nul8q

Integration of all models. Makes the FW models different & cooler.

[fracas]

go with the models you prefer
i went SG myself

[d-j]

For some reason link for FW Tau list doesn't work for me, i realy need that list, can U help me somehow? Where can i get one? (i realy prefer FW Tau models over GW)

[horizon]

Weird, works for me. Otherwise pm your email and I'll sent it.