The Axe Rider has a higher attack than most other cavalry units, making it quick and efficient at killing light infantry. However, Axe Riders also have relatively low hit points, so it is recommended to guard them from heavy infantry and ranged cavalry. Mass Axe Rider production relies on gathering a large amount of food so it is advisable to take control of the map early and secure as many hunts as possible to produce them in large numbers.
It is a good idea to combine them with Rifle Riders as they can break through the enemy's line of Musketeers and Pikemen, allowing the Axe Riders to reach the skirmishers or artillery they were protecting and eliminate them.
In the original The WarChiefs, the "Morning Star" Home City Card, available for a level 40 Sioux Home City, grants the Axe Rider the Nature Friendship ability to convert Treasure Guardians; having a group of Axe Riders accompanying the Sioux War Chief allows the player to quickly collect all treasures and convert all Treasure Guardians. In the Definitive Edition, "Morning Star" instead give Axe Riders a +3.0x multiplier against Treasure Guardians.
Nature Friendship (requires the "Morning Star" Home City Card; not available in the Definitive Edition): Converts a Treasure Guardian to the Axe Rider's side with the process taking 4 seconds to complete. 90 seconds cooldown.
Despite being called Axe Rider, the weapon they use is a gunstock war club, an indigenous weapon used by Native Americans. Indigenous tribes of America most likely created the design of the club based upon European firearms.
When the Sioux discovered horses, they were so impressed they named the new animal the Wonder Dog. It changed their entire way of life. Almost overnight, they became one of the most famous nomad peoples of history. Their effectiveness in combat is best summed up by the fact that the Sioux were long considered the best cavalry in the world.