Formations
The usage of formations allows regiments to be placed such that supporting effectiveness is maximized. This can be for the purpose of maximizing firepower, close combat support, etc. Very often, a unit that is at the right place at the right time is able to lend its support to achieve an overwhelming advantage over the opponent. The conditions for such events should therefore not be left to chance, but created by tactical formations and maneuvers.
The Line
Opponent Line
The line is the most basic of formations, simply place all regiments in a horizontal line facing the opponent.
Purpose : a. maximize firepower
b. provide an immediate outflank advantage if you outnumber the opponent
Disadvantages : a. generally evenly distributed strength; wings (left & right sides) that can be broken with concentrated assault.
Reinforced Line
Opponent Line Opponent Line
Line reinforced on 1 wing Line reinforced in the center
The reinforced line places regiment/s behind to provide robustness to that particular portion on the line. Any gap created by a breakthrough by the opponent can be defended/plugged by the rear line. Any breakthrough against the enemy can be supported/reinforced by the rear regiment/s in an assault. The reinforced line falls into 2 major types
a. Line reinforced on 1 wing/s – offensive
Purpose : a. concentrate offensive force on 1 opponent wing; if 1st regiment is broken/counter attacked, the rear unit may provide follow-up/backup.
b. Line reinforced in the center – defensive (typically)
Purpose : a. any breakthrough in the line can quickly be plugged up by the center rear unit on the players’ own turn. Without this, the opponent would be able to sweep the line on the flanks/rear.
Example
(with reinforced center)
Opponent breaks through Counter charge
Example
(without reinforced center)
Opponent breaks through Opponent prepares to rool up the rear/flank
Disadvantages : a. decreased frontage & firepower
Echelon/Oblique Line
Opponent
Line
The echelon or oblique line places regiment/s in an oblique line facing the opponent. This allows a portion of the enemy line to be attacked while keeping the rest of your own line from close combat. The units also serve to support the attacking unit from flank attacks.
Purpose : a. concentrate offensive force on 1 opponent wing, while keeping the rest of the army safe from close combat.
b. keep weak units from close combat while attacking the opponent
c. provide support to attacking unit while concentrating the attack on one portion of the opponent’s line
Example
Example2
Out
of opponent charge range Counter charge
Opponent overuns; your supporting unit countercharge
Concave
The concave places regiment/s in “U” facing the opponent. Firepower and a strong solid unit that can take charges is placed in the center, and fast/maneuverable units are placed on the flanks.
Purpose : a. Lures opponent into the center, where the solid unit will take the charge. The wings will then close in for a flank attack on the opponent.
