Melee attackers without the protection of shields are highly vulnerable to gunfire, even if heavily armored. Shield belts and good armor are usually necessary for your colonists to close the gap between you and the enemy. In addition, melee soldiers can fend off invading brawlers charging into your lines, or beat up drop podding enemies. Ranged enemies are also forced to fight back with makeshift melee attacks with their guns, which are woefully inadequate against a dedicated brawler. They can disrupt ranged enemies, because being engaged in melee interrupts and prevents ranged attacks, and staggers the enemy thus slowing movement. Melee soldiers are a useful asset in your colonies, if used correctly. No matter what sort of defenses you use, these battle tactics may be useful. This page details different tactics for defense and visualizations of them, applicable to most stages of the game. Defense against these attacks is one of the keys to having a successful colony. Getting attacked, whether by tribals, pirates, hordes of angry animals or by something more alien is a common event in the rimworlds. For defensive constructions against threats, see Defense structures.
