The only reason I grabbed some velites was because I read somewhere here that javelins were effective against phalanx formations??? The other issue is money. At custom (10,000 denarii) level it's tough. I guess dumping the onager in favour of aux archer would be better. Haven't crunched the numbers, perhaps dump onager and velite (cheap) and maybe I'll have enough for 2 more aux archers. Will these have much effect on the spearman formations or hvy german infantry? If you can get the center phalanx (spearman) to turn and hit them in the flank/rear they'll break but you're also dealing with axeman supporting them and those screaming women (who drive ME nuts). I don't know what you'd do fighting these guys in trees or tight cover, probably lose and lose badly.