Settra the Imperishable stands as one of the most iconic Lords in Total War: Warhammer II and Warhammer III. As the ruler of the Tomb Kings faction, he is both a powerhouse on the battlefield and a formidable empire-builder on the campaign map. Building Settra properly involves more than just upgrading units it’s about making the most of his unique abilities, boosting economy and public order, and dominating through relentless expansion. A carefully crafted Settra build allows players to take advantage of his strengths and minimize his weaknesses, creating a campaign that is both powerful and satisfying.
Understanding Settra’s Role
A True Hybrid Leader
Settra is a hybrid between a frontline tank and a support commander. He begins on foot, but later gains access to powerful mounts, including a chariot and the mighty Khemrian Warsphinx. His lord effects make him ideal for leading armies of Tomb Guard and other elite undead units. He also boosts early-game growth and public order, making him one of the best campaign-focused lords available.
Why Build Him Carefully
Unlike some Lords who can brute force through situations, Settra thrives when players manage his skill tree wisely, use his campaign bonuses efficiently, and tailor his army composition to capitalize on his leadership. He may not have magic, but what he lacks in spells, he makes up for in sheer presence, mobility, and durability.
Best Skills for Settra the Imperishable
Key Campaign Skills
When building Settra, you want to balance campaign benefits with battle prowess. Start by focusing on these essential campaign-oriented skills:
- Canopic Jar Hoarder Increases your supply of Canopic Jars, critical for unlocking Dynasties and Lords.
- Blessings of Asaph Boosts growth, ideal for early expansion.
- Restless Dead Provides army replenishment post-battle, helping with continuous conquests.
- Hawkish Precision Increases campaign movement range, allowing for faster repositioning.
Combat Skills and Mount Progression
Settra can be turned into a tanky killing machine when his combat skills are properly chosen. Focus on the following tree:
- Devastating Charge Increases charge bonus, synergizes well with chariot builds.
- Renowned and Feared Reduces enemy leadership and increases unit replenishment rate.
- Wound Maker Boosts weapon strength, turning Settra into a frontline threat.
- Chariot of the Gods His unique chariot mount, perfect for flanking and trampling weaker infantry.
- Khemrian Warsphinx(optional) If you prefer a tankier Settra, this mount gives him more mass and survivability.
Dynasties and Research
Unlocking the Nehekharan Dynasties
The Dynasties mechanic is key to maximizing Settra’s army potential. Spend Canopic Jars to unlock Lord capacity and bonuses. Prioritize:
- First Dynasty Improves Skeleton Warriors and boosts unit capacity.
- Second Dynasty Offers powerful Tomb Guard bonuses, which pair well with Settra’s lord effects.
Technology Research Priorities
Start with economic and unit capacity upgrades, then shift toward battle efficiency. Recommended techs include:
- Royal Burial Chambers Increases income from buildings and speeds up pyramid construction.
- Stonemasonry Lowers building costs, useful for rapid expansion.
- Conqueror’s Legacy Adds experience to new armies and Lords, giving you a leg up in newly conquered regions.
Army Composition for Settra
Early Game Army Setup
In the early turns, focus on quantity over quality until better units are available. A solid starting army might include:
- 45 Skeleton Warriors Cheap frontline units to absorb damage.
- 23 Skeleton Archers Basic ranged support, essential for chipping away at enemy health.
- 2 Nehekharan Warriors Stronger frontline units with decent melee stats.
- 1 Screaming Skull Catapult Early artillery can turn the tide of battle.
- 1 Tomb Scorpion (if available via Mortuary Cult) Adds early killing power and causes terror.
Mid to Late Game Elite Army
As Settra gains power and resources, his army should evolve into an elite composition that reflects his god-king status:
- 4 Tomb Guard (Halberds) Anti-large and excellent at holding choke points.
- 2 Tomb Guard (Swords) Solid frontline infantry with staying power.
- 3 Ushabti (Great Bows) Ranged monsters capable of demolishing elite enemy troops and lords.
- 2 Necropolis Knights Armor-piercing and fast-moving units to hit flanks or support Settra.
- 2 Carrion Ideal for chasing down artillery or routing units.
- 1 Screaming Skull Catapult Morale-shattering artillery support.
- 1 Tomb Prince Embed in army for added melee defense and leadership buffs.
Campaign Strategy Tips
Focus on Early Conquests
Settra starts in Khemri, a highly defensible desert region with room to expand in several directions. Prioritize taking over minor Tomb Kings, Greenskin, and Vampire Coast settlements. Use diplomacy carefully to delay wars with stronger neighbors like Arkhan the Black or Khalida until you’re ready.
Manage Public Order and Growth
Undead don’t suffer from corruption issues, but growth and public order are key to maintaining your momentum. Build Obelisks and Necropolis buildings in new settlements, and assign Lords with growth or control traits to boost early development.
Use the Mortuary Cult
The Mortuary Cult allows Settra to craft elite units, magical items, and powerful followers using Canopic Jars and resources. Prioritize the following:
- Golden Death Mask Increases public order in all provinces.
- Armory unitslike Tomb Scorpions and Ushabti Craft when your unit caps are full or you need power spikes.
- Banner of the Hidden Sands Gives ambush and speed bonuses to an army.
Settra in Battle
Using Settra Effectively in Combat
On his chariot or Warsphinx, Settra can charge enemy lines, harass backlines, and tie up enemy Lords. Keep him mobile and avoid getting bogged down in sustained fights with anti-large units. Let your infantry hold the line while Settra picks off vulnerable targets or supports a flank.
Positioning and Engagement
Keep your Tomb Guard in tight formations, shield your artillery, and always have monsters or cavalry positioned to flank. Settra’s presence boosts leadership across the board, so use him to rally troops and apply pressure where needed most.
Legendary Lord vs Other Tomb Kings
Why Settra is Superior
Compared to Khalida, Khatep, and Arkhan, Settra stands out for his economic benefits and reliable melee power. He has no reliance on magic, which simplifies army composition, and his faction mechanics make growth and dominance feel natural. Whether you’re going for a domination victory or aiming to control the Black Pyramid, Settra is the best general for leading your legions to glory.
Building Settra the Imperishable is all about capitalizing on his versatility, dominance in battle, and powerful campaign traits. From prioritizing his skill tree and army composition to expanding aggressively and making use of the Mortuary Cult, every decision shapes the destiny of your empire. Settra demands loyalty, and if you follow a solid strategy, he will reward you with unmatched control over the sands of Nehekhara and beyond. Embrace his eternal command, and lead your armies to conquest worthy of the true king.