Heavy Macemen

Just played a game using Middle of Imperial Roman and used the Heavy Macemen which are classed as Skirmishers VBU 3 with Impetus of 3. As they have been given Impetus they can charge but as there is no further rule clarification assume the intention is they are used as per existing rules for skirmishers which I see it as follows:-
1/ When charging the impetus of 3 is not given against mounted (rule 7.4 (2)).
2/ Usual dispersal rules 7.8.1 apply when contacted BY the enemy. So only really
effective when they charge.

Always thought they were primarily designed to fight mounted mainly cataphracts so would have thought should get impetus against mounted but maybe not against foot???

if these skirmishers charge and the melee is a draw if the enemy subsequently move a unit into contact to re instigate the melee ether as a main or support unit would that move into contact disperse these skirmishers and if so assume they would roll their melee dice as per 7.8.1 before dispersal.

How do you read this???

Hi ejc I would interpret as you have detailed as the rules currently stand, but agree that their historical use is not really allowed as the rules stand. If their Impetus bonus was allowed against mounted, BUT only CP1&2 and only when moving into contact or following up, this would possibly correct this? What do other people think? I am not one for making lots of rule amendments, but could be a possible house rule if players agreed, but a general endorsement would strengthen matters.

Those are good points, and it is a difficult question. I thought the same thing, that the macemen were used against cataphracts. Interestingly, the Etruscan axemen are similar to the macemen, yet the axemen are meant to be used against heavier infantry.

seems like a bad case of "one size fits all" using the italian Wars Doppelsoldner VBU 3/3 SK example. A better fit for Macemen would be a polearm upgrade for FP.

any suggestion is welcome, this can be added as an alternative option.