The Relativity of Space to Mass

In our final example let's consider space and mass. In many tactical situations players might want to do historical things not usually permitted by rules. In Classical Hack this is not a problem. Let's say a player wished to meet his opponent on a more equal figure to figure frontage that is not permitted if he were in close order formation. To do this we have to play with space. To have 12 figures cover more space their is only one way to do this and that is by relating space to mass as it were.

Here we can better see the significance of space in relation to frontage. If this were a cohort of 360 men we can clearly see that in loose order the frontage is greater. In close order the frontage is reduced as shown in A as opposed to B.

I like to have a number of units to represent the cohort: 12 figures in loose order and 12 in close order. During the movement phase of a turn I can change a unit's formation as an evolution by replacing a close order unit with a loose order unit. This is figure for figure. In this way I can get more out of the special but historical tactics of a unit. Most civilized peoples were capable of this formation change. In Classical Hack we like to have units perform real tactics like this.

So here is how to do it: During movement, perform an evolution going from close order (A) to loose order (B). This can also be done when charged where the charging enemy is more than half of his normal move away from you. Providing you are civilized Romans or Greeks you would be permitted to change formation to meet the charge. This permits you to reduce your depth and to expand your frontage in actual inches. Fewer figures per stand and this is done figure for figure. A unit of 12 figures in close order has 3 stands of 4 figures each. They would turn into a unit of 12 figures in loose order with 4 stands of 3 figures each.

What other times might you wish to do this? Well, say you are close order Romans going through a wood. Staying in close order you would be considered disordered until your unit clears the difficult terrain. However, if you were to go into loose order you would move normal and also not be disordered should you have to fight in the difficult terrain. Compare the spacial differences as shown below with what you might be currently using.

As an aside, I would like to mention that when I can I make up extra units to perform the necessary tactical ideals I profess here. I realize not everyone can do this for every unit he or she has but it is doable and it indeed works. While I cannot do it all the time when I can I do. So you might want to do something with those extra 12 or more figures you have. Try doing up that extra unit to challenge and confuse your opponent in the field as he or she has never been challenged before. It is realistic, it is historical and it is fun!