Horseman

Horsemen were a guard archetype that possessed the ability to use a variety of weapons while on horseback.

Equipment

Horsemen were mounted on one of two varieties of horse, either the common horse or the warhorse.

They were equipped with both short-ranged weapons such as long swords or maces, and long-ranged weapons like throwing knives (for those mounted on the common horse) and crossbows (for those mounted on warhorses). They did not possess long or heavy weapons.

Combat

When a horseman detected an Assassin on foot, the horseman would either charge at him with his short-ranged weapon ready (if the Assassin remained still) or would attempt to strike him with his long-ranged weapon (if he fled or started freerunning).

Horsemen often held an advantage in a fight, as they could move faster, and could use their steeds to knock over enemies on the ground. However, they were vulnerable to long-ranged weapons, and could be unseated if their horses were injured while charging. Should they be unsaddled, horsemen would either challenge their enemies on the ground, or attempt to re-mount.

Trivia

A guard on foot will sometimes mount a nearby horse upon becoming hostile towards Ezio Auditore. If no free horse is available, he will hijack one from a passing civilian.
Horsemen cannot be killed with the Poison blade while on horseback, and must be unsaddled first. If you use a poison dart however, there is a chance that the horseman will fall off.
Horsemen cannot be lured by thieves, attacked by mercenaries, or distracted by courtesans.
- However, completing the Courtesan Guild Challenges will enable courtesans to distract horsemen, and make them dismount.
Certain mounted Hermeticists share the abilities of horsemen.