Rome: Total War battle guide: morale, cavalry and phalanxes
Match army roles to enemy formations and use positioning to win the morale battle.
Edition covered
The original 2004 Imperial Campaign and its PC rules. The cover advertises the later Collection. Pictures show the base campaign in Feral Interactive's mobile port, with touch controls and interface differences. Barbarian Invasion, Alexander and Rome Remastered rules are outside this guide.
Give each unit a specific job
Infantry can hold opponents in place while missiles and cavalry attack from safer angles. Keep a reserve so an unexpected flank does not leave the entire army committed.
| Role | Useful job | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Infantry line | Hold enemies in place | Exposed flanks |
| Cavalry | Rear charges and pursuit | Braced spears head-on |
| Missile troops | Wear down exposed targets | Friendly troops blocking fire |
| Phalanx | Control a frontal approach | Fast turns while engaged |
| General bodyguard | Leadership and reserve attack | Reckless early commitment |
Protect formation strengths
A phalanx is strongest when its long weapons face the threat. Its formation is less useful when opponents reach the sides or movement breaks the line.
| Situation | Response | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Enemy cavalry approaches | Face it with spear units | Direction matters |
| Enemy infantry is pinned | Move cavalry around the side | Two-direction pressure harms morale |
| Your line is exhausted | Commit a fresh reserve | Fresh troops can stabilize the line |
| An enemy routs | Assess the rest of the battle | Pursuit can expose the army |
Rest before the decisive charge
Running and prolonged fighting tire troops. Walk while positioning when time allows, then charge after checking terrain and friendly units in the route.
Watch morale as well as casualties
Flanking, a threatened general and nearby routs can break formations. Pursue when safe, but do not chase one defeated unit while another enemy attacks your infantry.
Flanking, a threatened general and nearby routs can break formations. Pursue when safe, but do not chase one defeated unit while another enemy attacks your infantry.
References
| Reference | Website |
|---|---|
| Rome: Total War publisher listing | store.steampowered.com |
| Original PC manual | store.steampowered.com |
| Licensed picture gallery | www.feralinteractive.com |