Unit Explanations: Fiddling with Phoenixes

Unit Explanations: Fiddling with Phoenixes 

Image from: http://starcraft.wikia.com/wiki/Phoenix

The Phoenix is a very versatile unit that (in most situations) can help swing a battle your way. You would think being only able to attack air would stop them, but your wrong. They have a mass of locked potential that is destined to be found by you.

The Phoenix is a fast moving anti air unit that resides with the Protoss. The Phoenix can attack whilst moving thus making it perfect for on the fly battles. This being coupled with the fact it moves very hasty can lead to some fast paced action. 

Phoenixes are perfect at countering Mutalisks hands down. They move as fast as Mutalisks and do extra damage to light armoured units. This means the 'mutas' will melt away easily with a flock of Phoenixes. 

However, what if you find yourself over encumbered with ground forces at your door? Phoenixes may still be of use yet; using Phoenixes to pick up units can drastically reduce the amount of forces that your ground army has to deal with. It is also very wise to use the Phoenixes to pick up key ground units such as siege tanks and immortals. Just think, if you have about 10 Phoenixes with your army, then you have the ability to reduce their forces by 10 when a battle comes to hand.

Phoenixes are not always about the offensive however. There may be a few sticky situations that a Phoenix can come in handy. Lets say for example, you have a group of zealots in the front of your army covering stalkers. Some banelings could start rolling in, holding the potential to wipe out your zealot force. Your best bet is to pick up your own Zealots and let the stalkers deal with the banelings.

The Folly of the Phoenix

Phoenixes do have their weaknesses however. Being a specialist in taking out light armoured units leaves it open to being completely annihilated by armoured units. Corrupters are the Phoenixes worst enemy. Not only are Corrupters armoured, but they can add an extra 20% extra damage to their attacks in the form of 'corruption'. 

A big ball of marines are always a no no. Never fly over them. I think you all know what will happen if you do.

Buildings. Buildings are untouchable by Phoenixes, they cannot be picked up and Phoenixes cannot attack ground. This means static defense will be a key point to avoid when flying through enemy lines.