Matrix Games Forums

In the FM01 Game Operations section, 18.2 defines and offers examples of their use according to unit capabilities.

My question is: when should I use them? To clarify, I am not asking about the game versus realism. I am familiar with Doctrine and the FMs. Nor is an explanation of underlying mechanics or the game AI necessary. I want to know, as a player, when I should generally set my units to "Main Effort" or "Line" in a given situation for most tactical use cases.

For example (a yes/no answer is acceptable):

1. Does "Main Effort" only apply to offensive operations (taking ground or objectives)?
2. In a static defense, does "Main Effort" or "Line" have an effect on standoff ranges in the SOP manager?
3. Are unit postures (dug-in, covered, etc.) affected by roles (not considering their use in withdrawal)?
4. If I place a NATO tank company on a reverse slope to hold a position or delay, should I use "Line"?
5. If I place an infantry company in a wood line that I must hold, should I use "Main Effort"?
6. If a tank company is supporting the infantry company in the wood line, should I set them to "Line"?
Is "Overwatch" preferable to "Line"?

For the Warsaw Pact, I feel it is fairly clear when to use what in most settings; for NATO, this is where the question usually arises. I'm not looking for a deep explanation, just a best practice to employ within the game.

Thanks in advance.

Answers:
1. Does "Main Effort" only apply to offensive operations (taking ground or objectives)?
1A. No. It indicates the main combat-type units in a force.
2. In a static defense, does "Main Effort" or "Line" have an effect on standoff ranges in the SOP manager?
2A. No. SOPs are set by unit type and SOP selections.
3. Are unit postures (dug-in, covered, etc.) affected by roles (not considering their use in withdrawal)?
3A. No, digging in works the same for all units.
4. If I place a NATO tank company on a reverse slope to hold a position or delay, should I use "Line"?
4A. No. Holding is an action regardless of role.
5. If I place an infantry company in a wood line that I must hold, should I use "Main Effort"?
5A. As 4A.
6. If a tank company is supporting the infantry company in the wood line, should I set them to "Line"?
Is "Overwatch" preferable to "Line"?
6A. Leaving them as Line or Main Effort is better, as Overwatch might cause the tanks to fall back.

Roles are basically there to give the AI an understanding of basic unit placement in a formation. Recon out front, Main Effort as the main body, with Line as the second rank of the main effort. Overwatch is for units like anti-tank systems and air defense that sit just behind the line guys and provide fire support to the main effort. Support units are your HQs and artillery-type systems that are at or near the rear area of a formation.

Thank you! Exactly what I was looking for.