I really hate having to use either melee type because always some much die. I do use them, especially the lizards, but have to train some more every week.
AGAIN: "Heroes Forge AW" and "Victory Springs AW" STRENGTHEN Melee.
They do not come into play until the end of Research Chapters 8 and 12. **
ONCE MORE: MMM, ELR, UUU, and, Dwarven Armorer ALL need to be Crafted or Won in the Spire. Even using TWO "Trees" gives great results.
ETC., ETC.: Martial/Monestary, Fire Phoenix.
Needles of the Tempest (NotT) is the 1st Strengthening AW; consequently, NotT gets upgraded much Faster and Higher.
Upgraded NotT, combined with ELR, explains INITIAL SUPERIORITY of Light Ranged.
** Don't forget that I have reached the top of the Spire only once.