[jcmwolf1]

I know that drones count for unit sizes and morale checks and such, but should they? I mean, they are machines created to serve and protect, so I wouldn't think the Tau would be that upset if a few die to save their masters.

[juraigamer]

While fearless little robots makes sense, we all know that games workshop doesn't. Our moral checks on drones can be related to a blue screen of death.

[SteelPanther]

I think he means the situation of 'Your Commander had both of its Shield Drones die...MORALE CHECK! :'( '

[Fizyx]

I dunno. If both my shield drones just got obliterated, I'd definitely be on the verge of crapping my pants.

[Sea-Zan]

Originally Posted by juraigamer

While fearless little robots makes sense, we all know that games workshop doesn't. Our moral checks on drones can be related to a blue screen of death.

Actually I don`t think drones run away becuase they are afraid. According to the fluff small numbers of drones can't function well so I would assume that if too many drones died the squad would just bob around a bit. The only way to represent this is with a high chance of running away.

Back on topic. I agree that a unit having a couple drones die shouldn`t scare them.

[Goldfish]

I've always looked at it like this:

If you're in a modern infantry platoon with a tank pushing the line forward, morale is high. If that tank suddenly explodes the squad loses more than its firepower, they lose the mental associations of protection and edge the tank conferred.

So drones, being our own edge and support, being blown up around us is disheartening. The unit no longer feels they have the effectiveness they did before, so are more likely to not seize the initiative or be aggressive. In this game represented by falling back...or at least testing.

[juraigamer]

Think of it like this: The drones are networked together, when parts of the network fall, the chances for a crash become greater.