Let's Build some PC Armies

[col_impact]

Well I've been trying to read through several pages in hopes of not missing any rules.
That said- an army of 1000 Bards would be something to see indeed.
https://youtu.be/87xYGDR_eME?t=43

They might die, they might be grievously injured, but it'll be one hell of a show nonetheless.

Bards are the second best option for a Jedi Academy style build imho. Druid or Warlock is also a solid pick.

But to sort out which is best you start getting into questions of how exactly level progression works for armies.

For example, can armies progress to second level?

If yes, consider the ramifications of your choice.

Having access to 400-2000 Divination dice each day is insane for hit and run tactics. Or having access to 1000 brown bears is nothing to sneeze at either. Or 1000 troops with Jack of All Trades. Wow! And we haven't even mentioned 2nd level Warlocks with always on Invocations.

If leveling has an absolute cap at 1 then Wizards gets you the most bang for buck. If leveling goes all the way to 20 then Wizard is also arguably the best (with Bard and Druid possibly as good or better), but you will get a serious run for your money at certain levels versus similar builds. Sorceror is also very viable for those who are very experienced with D&D (high difficulty settings choice).

It comes down to who are the better archers.

The fact that longbows can target 600 feet away means nothing else is really going to be very relevant on the field. Sure there are going to be some engagements with heavy cover that can be used to fortify a position, but those guys under heavy cover are basically locked down by the archers.

[....]

The idea of wizards being able to sneak around and infiltrate enemy forces with any kind of reliability is silly, not when you've got a force composed entirely of guys with +3 wis, insight proficiency and guidance on tap. The rogue army, with expertise in deception along with a race like changelings who can actually infiltrate worth a damn? Yes, absolutely they could pull it off, but not wizards.

A wizard army that implements full cover, free illusionary feints to deplete your ammunition, and saps your encampment will be a rude awakening for you, sir. Mwahahaha.