The Classic Cavalry Charge

[Compass Rose]

The Classic Cavalry Charge– by Paul Bruffell

The effective use of shock heavy cavalry can be devastating for the defender. But how do you use such cavalry effectively?
These heavy cavalry are no match for massed ranks of steadfast reliable infantry with spears. To be effective they need to hit the enemy in the flank or preferably in the rear.

Below is a screenshot of Alexander’s household cavalry charging in to the rear of a Persian infantry block. In two turns the Regular Persian spearmen were routed with enormous losses. When you look at the combat modifiers it is easy to appreciate why they are so effective –
The Elite HC in Wedge formation gain the following positive modifiers –

1. +1 if attacking the rear, right rear or left rear of a non-pike / non-long thrusting spear unit.
   
2. +1 if unit is ‘Elite’
   
3. +1 if a non-militia, non-levy unit is charging in to contact.
   
4. +2 if charging in or subject to uncontrolled advance to the rear of a unit.
   
5. +2 if Heavy Cavalry charging in to contact.
   

A total of +7 for an attacking unit can easily cause losses of over 50 men in one turn.





So why were those Persian infantry facing the other way? Look again at that screenshot and you will see a Macedonian phalanx facing them. This pins down the Persians and prevents them from turning to face the rapid envelopment from Alexander’s cavalry.

[Dog Soldier]

At the time of Alexander, the stirrup was not yet in use by his armies, I think. Thus the shock effect of heavy cavalry with lances to shatter formed infantry from the front was some time away.

The game accurately reflects this.

Dog Soldier