It varies depending on whether I'm attacking or defending, and against what.

Ashi are usually a block 5-6 deep, either way. I use them to a. flank units already in combat or b. rush archers when the rst of the enemies line is committed. They are never in the line but as support on the flanks. (Rarely more than 2) 'Hold' formation until pursuit or charging archers.

Yari. If in the center of the line I have them 4-5 deep. On the flanks 3-4 deep. Center units are expected to survive til reinforced or win alone. Flankers are to secure the flanks, and are thrown in only if their flank is otherwise secure. These are the pivot points of flanking ashi or cavalry and can be retreated behind if those are over-matched. In 'Engage' formation unless facing cav or monks.

Monks.. On defense, sometimes only 3 deep. The wide front, when it attacks (never receive an attack with monks, I say) should throw fear into more than one enemy unit this way. On defense, once my monks go in the battle it is usually decided, too. I don't expect them to have long battles after contact. Another nice feature of 3 deep.. they quickly overlap enemy's flanks. Always in 'Engage' formation. Keeps their killing power undiluted.

NoDachi.. Base formation of 5-6 deep needed. They take too many losses from arrows. I hold them back from the line to avoid such hits til committed. Even victorious ND typically take 33% losses. 66% is not uncommon and a tough battle leaves but a corporal's guard.

Archers.. Two deep, they are the front line. They can shoot unobstructed, as samurai can receive the enemy's charge stoically. Usually they needn't take many losses as I counter-charge to meet the oncoming foe. On offense they absorb the enemies arrows, rarely in long duels. Almost always in 'Hold' formation, unless I want to allow them to withdraw from a melee they are stuck in.

Cav... I'm not much on attacking with cav. As pursuit I use 'Engage'. I'll leave them to those more experienced to give suggestions.

Naginata... Rarely use these, but then in 'Hold' formation. They don't kill well to begin with so I maximize their staying power.

One useful aspect of a charge while in 'Engage' formation is that the unit usually gets spread out. This, while diluting the initial impact of a charge, makes them harder archery targets. Misses don't have nearby individuals to hit by mistake.


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Wind fells blossoms, rain
fells steel,yet bamboo bends and drinks