Hi, have a quick, quasi-newb question. Can one attack the models behind an ethereal slaan in a horde-vs-horde formation or not, since the opposing attacks must go against the slaan thus they are unable to hit? Example- So we have a horde of 30 WL's vs a horde of Saurus Warriors, with a ethereal slaan in one corner of his unit. Can the White Lions on the left, across from the slaan hit the Saurus behind the slaan? And can the Saurus behind the slaan make supporting attacks? Any help appreciated.
As I understand the rules, a model can only be attacked if a model is in base to base contact with it. Because the saurus are BEHIND the slann and the white lions aren't in base to base contact they cannot hit them at all. They can hit the slann if they want, but it won't do anything. As far as supporting attacks go, I think because they are directly behind the slann, who IS in base to base contact, they can make their supporting attacks. They just can't be hit back. It's a bit weird like that. Good for the saurus, bad for the lions.
Fighting in extra ranks only allows you to attack with more ranks in your own unit, it doesn't give you greater reach into the enemy unit so yes, the Slann will effectively block out a number of attacks in this scenario but you still get to attack with the two Saurus behind him.
indeed, if you only have contact with the slann, you can only hit him. you cant attack models next to him or behind him.