The Gouriki is a distinctive and highly effective anti-cavalry formation used by the Hi Shin Unit and the Kyou Kai Army, known for its strength and tactical precision. This formation is one of the core strategies of both units and has become a signature maneuver in their military repertoire.
Overview[]
The Gouriki formation, which translates to "strength" or "force," is a highly effective anti-cavalry tactic that relies on the combined power and coordination of the infantry. The formation is designed to counter the devastating speed and force of cavalry charges, which can often overwhelm traditional infantry lines.
In the formation, infantry on the front line split into ten-man teams. Two squads of five men temporarily join together to form a "clump" of ten soldiers. These "clumps" are arranged in a zig-zag pattern, ensuring that individual cavalry units cannot break through the line. Facing the incoming cavalry, the soldiers create an overlapping shield wall, solidifying their position and forming an unyielding defensive front. As a result, the formation becomes a nearly impenetrable barrier against the charging horsemen.
The key to the success of the Gouriki formation lies in its ability to present a unified, rock-like defense. The soldiers on the front lines use their shields to form an overlapping barrier, while the soldiers behind them brace themselves, ready to reinforce the formation and provide additional strength. Together, they create a powerful defense against the force of the cavalry.
The formation's success also depends on the discipline and coordination of the soldiers. Each soldier must trust their comrades to hold the line, knowing that a single lapse in coordination could result in the collapse of the entire formation. The soldiers' movements must be perfectly synchronized, and intense training is required to ensure they maintain a solid defense.
Strengths & Weaknesses[]
The success of the Gouriki formation hinges on the ability of all ten soldiers to mentally focus and synchronize their efforts. When they overlap their concentration, they can withstand the full force of a Cavalry charge. By employing this tactic, a series of 10-man units can halt the momentum of an enemy cavalry, bringing them to a standstill. The charging horsemen are either knocked over or forced to stop, creating a situation where they are vulnerable and unable to maneuver in the crowded space. At this point, close-quarters units can swiftly deal with the trapped cavalry.
However, while effective, the Gouriki formation comes at a cost. The unit absorbs significant damage and recoil from the cavalry's impact. Common injuries among the defenders include broken bones, dislocated joints, and other trauma due to the force of the charge. Despite these risks, the tactic remains a key defensive maneuver, enabling infantry to neutralize cavalry threats and maintain battlefield control.
Variations[]

The Kyou Kai Unit's Chained Gouriki.
- Chained Gouriki: Kyou Kai refined the Gouriki formation within her unit to the point where they could execute multiple interlinked formations. This advanced version was first demonstrated during the Battle at Shukai Plains, showcasing her tactical brilliance in coordinating several formations to create an even more formidable defense against enemy cavalry.
History[]
Kyou Kai thought up and invented the tactic when multiple members of the Hi Shin Unit wanted her to personally teach them. She decided to create a new tactic instead by using entire units.
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