FIRE AT WILL

[dcousins]

In simple terms when should I use this and when not? If the default is off then presumably I should only use it occasionally but it sounds as though it makes things simpler.

[Martok]

Welcome to the Org, dcousins!

As for using the "fire at will" command, it really depends on which game you're playing, which unit(s) you're talking about, and what the tactical situation is in the battle you're fighting. Could you give us a few more details?

[Omanes Alexandrapolites]

Welcome to the .Org
I generally use fire at will for archers and skirmisher type units as the enemy advances towards me, although cease using it when melee combat has begun. This prevents losses from friendly fire should their projectiles hit your own troops.

In the case of units which fire and then charge, the only effective method of getting them to use their javelins correctly is by using fire at will mode. Otherwise you end up a little annoyed when you constantly have to stop them from charging after you've selectively picked a unit.

[The Wandering Scholar]

Otherwise you end up a little annoyed when you constantly have to stop them from charging after you've selectively picked a unit.

Now that is annoying, both the charging and friendly fire.

[Doug-Thompson]

That's a good question but not a simple one.

As a rule, turn it off when you want your missile units to concentrate fire, such as when you're trying to open a hole in your enemy's line.

[wumpus]

Yes, cousin, they're right in the posts above--it depends on the situation, fire at will or not. I had one bad experience when I started to play RTW. In the Unit Combat Tutorial, I engaged the 2nd wave of Gauls (you know, that part when you've already crossed the bridge) with my triarii, then brought my General's unit in support--and got a rain of fire arrows from my own archers! Only my general survived (maybe because he was the general and because it was the tutorial anyway, so he was privileged to stay alive despite my stupidity). I should have disarmed the Fire at Will before I committed my cavalry... At any rate, I usually set my Militia Cavalry, archers, and slingers (especially the slingers! because they shoot with a flat trajectory and very prone to pelting the backs of your advancing infantry with their lead shots) to no Fire at Will. Also, I usually (but not always) disable the Skirmish Mode, enable the Hold Formation and the Guard mode; and enable the Fire Arrows for the archers and ballistas. I would designate the targets for my missiles during combat and frequently hit the HALT icon as soon as (or a little before, because many times the response time of the AI is a little late) I got the effect I wanted but I don't trust the AI to pick my targets for me--the AI is smart in doing automatic combat but stupid in directing targets, choosing where & when to attack/withdraw/chase, and in what direction for my units to face.
Hawooh.

[Good Ship Chuckle]

I was about to post some advice, but then wumpus showed up a took the wind out of my sails (no pun intended). Diddo what he said.

Good to see you, noble wumpus!