a question

**Glorfindel** · June 16, 2008, 04:19 AM

what does the guard mode do?:hmmm:

when it should be used?:hmmm:

thanks

**eisenkopf** · June 16, 2008, 04:27 AM

1. it lets the unit guard the spot it's occupying at that moment. it won't move /pursue if a target you ordered them to attack moves out of range

2. whenever you need to hold your ground/formation? useful, say, if your missile troops are supposed to stay where they are, but you want to pick the targets.

**Kiljaden** · June 16, 2008, 04:27 AM

I have, at times, seen a positive result from using this. I don't use it too much, but effectively, it prevents your units from spreading out all over the place when fighting.
I use Guard with spearmen a lot. Now it doesn't seem to do too much if anything against a cavalry charge (could be wrong), however when guarding a gate or wallbreach in siege defense (especially when using a \/ form), it is amazing in ensuring both the enemy and your troops stay put.
Guard is obviously worthless when attacking, and sadly it doesn't seem that the second row of spears does much attacking from behind the front row in guard formation.

Now this is in contrast with Schilstrom usage. Guard you should use only in defense - say if you don't want your enemy to pass. Schilstrom is effective if the unit is isolated and outnumbered - whether defending or attacking - to good result. Just make sure that after you toggle schilstrom that you give them enough time to move them in position, and keep them where you want them to stay (don't move them in schilstrom formation while under attack)