Flank Morale Modifier

[Jagger]

I always thought that the morale modifier only applied to morale checks as a method to reduce routing.  I'll have to read the rule again.

KG, that is correct.  Here is the description from the cwb.pdf:

[Q] Flank Morale Modifier to have the morale of units increased by 1 for Rout and Disruption determination when they have friendly non-Leader units on both flanks.[/Q]

It seems a significant, and in some cases unbalancing, option.  If the whole objective of combat is to achieve the rout of units, then combat becomes less decisive because routs/disruptions are harder to achieve.  Since a battle line can be very long, the great majority of troops will now enter combat with inflated morale vs the intended OOB morale.  In game terms, both armies should see less disruptions and routs, so a more static battle. 

And one danger is the tipping of large numbers of units from morale "B" to morale "A".  "B" morale units have a 16% chance of firepower disruption/rout without modifiers.  "A" morale units have 0% chance.  To have any chance of firepower rout/disruption of "A" units requires either enfilade, low ammo or medium/high levels of fatigue.  So basically, "B" units become the Old Guard when placed within a battle line with supported flanks as per the flank modifier option.  And the OOB has already determined those units are not Old Guard. So why should "B" units become the Old Guard when all they are doing is using historical tactics?

So the option definitely increases the staying power of armies but can also become unbalancing dependent on army composition.