Ginger wrote:
There are a number of neat concepts in E:A, barrages are one. Most rules have fixed ranges for weaponry allowing the potential target to move with impossible precision to avoid being shot. E:A barrages differ by allowing you to place the templates beyond the stated weapon range (the range is measured to a unit under the first template). The consequence is that barrages get a 'fuzzy' range.
Crossfire is another fairly 'realistic' rule that is often overlooked. Especially usefull against Leman Russ - there are real world corrolaries here. And no, I have not ridden a tank; they are too bloody dangerous for my liking - people have a nasty habit of shooting at them.
Crossfire is actually what would be called "flanking" fire ... especially useful when engaging Armor ... An AFV's armor especially in WWII, the armor plating was generally thinner on the side and rear ... So by having units fire from the front and fire from the flank/side, no matter where the AFV turns it exposes it's weaker armor ... Being former Grunt, I've ridden on the back of MBTs on occassion, faster than walking(!). And each provides mutual support. But my paradigm is the same as with APCs, you dismount too soon you loose mobility, too late and you give the enemy a 2-for-1 shot. At your transport(whether APC or MBT), and the troops that are being carried. See my previous comments about moving from cover to cover and dismounting behind cover. And using covering/overwatch fire from the transport (APC or MBT)under cover (hull down/hull defilade), to support the dismounted infantry attack. Note: you don't want to be caught out in the open while riding on the back of an MBT under an artillery attack. See my comments about moving under cover ... again ...