Firebat

Overview

Firebats are heavily armored infantry in the Terran military armed with dual arm-mounted flamethrowers. Like the Marines, Firebats are conscripted from former criminals that have undergone "neural resocialization" and have aggression dampeners implanted. Firebats are typically psychotic pyromaniacs though volunteers are not unheard of.

Starcraft Brood War

Firebats are niche units in Starcraft and Starcraft: Brood War. Their sole purpose is to kill Zerglings and they are very good at doing so. They deal line splash damage as well as radial splash damage on the ends of their flames. In the early game, Terrans can may choose to supplement their Marine, Medics with some Firebats. They are decent against Protoss Zealots. Like the Marine, the Firebat benefits from Stim Packs and with Medic support, they are almost nigh invincible against Zerglings.

As the game progresses however, the Firebat's usefulness wanes. The Firebat is the only Terran unit that is unaffected by the Defiler's Dark Swarm ability, however Siege Tank splash damage is often enough to kill units under the Swarm. Occasionally, a Firebat is used as a harassing unit as they are very effective against workers. However the Vulture is not only faster but does the job more efficiently and compliments the Siege Tank well.

Starcraft II (Campaign Only)

Initially, the Firebat was to be a multiplayer unit. It was much bigger and produced from the Terran Factory. This was changed back to being produced from the Barracks. The Firebat was eventually scrapped with its roles taken over by the Reaper and Hellion units. Its suit was used as the basis for the Marauder. The Firebat can still be played in the Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty campaign.

In comparison to similar units, the Firebat is shorter ranged and slower than the Hellion but is more heavily armored. They can be upgraded with improved armor plating and wide nozzles for more splash damage.