Allowable Formations?

[BrianC]

Hi Everyone,

I have given the rules a read through a couple of times but have a question regarding allowable formations. I am looking at page 23 and it says that formations are rectangular then in the example it says and so on. Does "and so on" mean that you can have a formation 8 wide and 1 deep? To me that is a line and the rules state battlegroups must be in a rectangle unless one of the 4 other formations which don't include a line.

And if so, does that go for any troop types? I was wondering about skirmish troops screening the main infantry line or cavalry. It would be beneficial to form out into a line if possible. Further on in the rules there is an example I think of light horse evading and being able to do something if in a line formation. So I was just hoping on a clarrification.

Hope this wasn't answered elsewhere, I did a quick look first.

Thanks

Brian

[MJT]

Brian,
It's all covered on Page 23 and your formation of a "line" (8 wide - 1 deep) is a rectagle by definition and certainly allowed in the rules. Single rank formations are particularly important for cavalry as it is the game's system for representing "skirmishing" cavalry (that is "heavy" and medium cav skirmishing - not light horse).

Page 23 does not explicitly cite your example (while it does cover most other possibilities!!), but it is implied on page 23 and certainly a requirement for some troops in specific circumstances.

Bear in mind that the system allows for light troops to shoot ("skirmish" in your terms) while two ranks deep so a single rank of light foot is not required for that task.

Enjoy the rules. Once you break through into a different "mind-set" they are logical and reasonably straightforward to play.
Marcus

[BrianC]

Hi Marcus,

Thanks for the info. I kind of assumed that you could form line but because the rules explicitly said rectangle that got me wondering. LOL why couldn't the author just say and 8x1 rather than "and so on". When I read rules I really don't like having to read between the lines as there is always room for error. But of course, the more we read them and play games and read Q and A on here the easier it will be. Its nice to know that there is an avenue like this where we can clarify things.

Hoping to do my first non solo playtest tomorrow night. My fingers are crossed on the playsheets no matter what their state, would be a good test.

Brian