Total War Tactics: Shifted Battle Line Traps

Introduction

• Presented by Oakley.
• Focus on "shifted battle line traps" in Total War.
• Overview of the battle plan and execution.

General Battle Plan

• Ambush Strategy

  • Step 1: Lay Your Trap
    • Use hidden units: Position in tall grass or forests.
  • Step 2: Shift Your Line
    • Create a canted line to entice opponent to match your position.
    • Importance of maintaining distance from the opponent.

• Baiting the Enemy

  • Open a tempting target for the opponent.
  • Ensure hidden troops are close to counterattack if needed.

• Springing the Trap

  • Execute ambush once the opponent takes the bait.
  • Use cavalry and ranged units to maximize damage.

• Follow-Up Attack

  • Exploit the opponent's disarray to launch another attack on the opposite flank.
  • Encircle the opponent for dominance.

Key Phases of Implementation

1. Hide Your Troops

   • Use powerful ambushing units (e.g., archers or javelins).
   • Ensure mobility for follow-up.

2. Tilt Battle Lines

   • Pressure on one flank to provoke a response.
   • Adjust forces accordingly as opposition shifts.

3. Bait the Enemy

   • Retreat from a flank to entice enemy forces.
   • Optimal positioning for ambush.

4. Spring the Ambush

   • Attack with hidden units once the enemy engages.

5. Follow Up

   • Make sure ambushing units are reinforced.
   • Target exposed units as the opponent reacts to the ambush.

Case Study: Multiplayer 2 vs 2 Battle

• Setup

  • Oakley positioned with samurai units on the battlefield.
  • Phase 1 included hiding units on the left flank to launch the ambush.

• Strategy in Action

  • Phase of baiting by retreating units to create a perceived gap.
  • Opponent moves to exploit the flank.
  • Ambush Executed: Red Bear infantry fire upon unsuspecting units.

• Importance of Micro

  • Opponent distracted managing multiple fronts due to ambush.
  • Capitalize on this distraction to hit exposed units.

• Conclusion of Battle

  • Quick victory based on executing the ambush and follow-up attacks.
  • Importance of having a strong follow-up after ambushing.

Closing Remarks

• Efficient strategy for Total War, adaptable to different games (e.g., Rome).
• Open to feedback for tactical tutorials and further content.

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Key Takeaways

• Practice is Key: Timing and execution take time to learn.
• Engagement Strategies: Understand when to engage or retreat.
• Reinforcement is Crucial: Always have support for ambushing units.