Roach Pressure (vs Protoss)

This article does not comply to the Strategy Article Policy or the Strategy Template yet. You can help Liquipedia by expanding it.

Roach Pressure

[help]

[edit]

Matchups:	ZvP
Type:	Opening

Overview

This build is the standard pressure opening used by Zergs. It provides a flexible framework on which to build and has a relatively fast expansion. With that said, the build is vulnerable to a number of Immortal timing pushes so care must be taken when the Protoss is seen to be teching. The build does sacrifice economy for pressure, so the build needs to force the Protoss into a response for the build to be considered equal or ahead (i.e. building Cannons or hard teching Immortals)

See also: 3 Roach Rush All-in, Roach Feint (vs. Protoss) for other basic Roach openings. Two Hatch Roach Tech for the economic opening.

Build Order

Basic Build
10 Overlord 13 Pool 14 Gas 15 Overlord 15 Queen 17 Zergling 18 Roach Warren 18 Zergling 19 Zergling 20 Larvae Injection 20 Overlord 20 Pump Roaches 30 Larvae Injection Continue Roach Production 32 Hatchery while Attacking with around 6 Zerglings, 5 Roach and 3-4 Roach reinforcing

Build Order Clarification

Use initial Zerglings to remove the Protoss scout. After the first 5 Roaches you may opt to end your pressure and expand - this is perfectly viable but keep in mind that you will be more vulnerable to any kind of timing push in doing so. It is important to keep an eye on the Protoss with your Overlord - be wary of timing pushes.

Transition

This build transitions into any of the standard Zerg midgames easily.

Countered By

Hard Counters

• Immortal Timing Push

Soft Counters

• Fast Stalkers

Counter To

Hard Counters

• 2 Gate

Soft Counters

• 2 Gate Tech

Notable Maps

Strong

• Steppes of War
• Xel'Naga Caverns

Weak

• Desert Oasis