Quote Originally Posted by desert View Post
Yes, but is it really realistic for Iphikrateans to slaughter Classical Hoplites like that?
well granted that there is no ability to outflank the fight would most likely stay as static draw until one line for some reason breaks.

I mean.... both have shieldwalls and lenth of the spear won't really make a big difference since they come in contact with shields.
--If my memory serves me right... When Philip of Macedon invaded Greece the Hoplite armies of Athens and Thebes formed a solid line in between 2 mountain ranges (I think), thus the cavarly was not able to flank. The fight was a basically a draw till Phillip had his pikemen walk backwards, the Thebans walked forward pressing against the pike while the Athenians stayed, young Alexander then charged the gap.... and thats all she wrote.

A similar thing happen in a battle against Sparta and ....(can't remember what Macedonian king). The pike were unable to break through, yet later for some reason the Spartans left their protected position and advanced opening their flanks to attack.

For the Iphikrateans to slaughter C. Hoplites, I think it would be if both break formation and a sword fight breaks out. Even under those circusmtances is hard to tell, as troop expireince & endurance would the main factor since the equipment and armor is not that different. (C.H. heavier shield more armor, Iph. longer swords, shield roughly as big, but ligher armor)