Nature Structures

Well, in the fourth game, yes – the movement range is too small – sometimes a hero overtakes another hero even without an army.
I specifically use Faeries and Wolves as living shields in front of the hero. But once the main threat, like a hero and archers, is eliminated, they can be used more effectively.
The Water Elemental tactic is to shoot with Ice Bolt))) and also use Quicksand, but they are even more valuable than archers. Sometimes, if offensive spells are blocked against the desired target, Fatigue or Weakness can help – at least some effect will be applied, as there is usually enough mana left for the rest of the battle.
I've never seen anyone rely solely on Footmen for Water Elementals))) But that's why I use Water Elementals – if there are many of them, they are perfect against a hero and a couple of other units, or you can use Forgetfulness to make the enemy skip a turn.