But so far I can't recall 1 time where they exceeded my expectations. II would really like these guys to carry just like other low-tier units (Nasty Skulkers) can potentially carry in the right situation. In my experience, up to the harassment you take from ranged units, Outriders are much better at this flanking role. Also, virtually every AI army has 4+ units that can pose a threat to these guys and by the time you take those out, you already took a big dent in your frontline or won the engagement anyway. You basically must choose to either shield them with a unit of Halberdiers (hence no LOS, hence no shooting), or let them die. Handgunners: if it was not already difficult enough to position them so that they have a clear view of the enemy (cuz straight line of fire, meh), the AI often goes out of its way to send all skirmishers/cavalry after them.
Here are the problems I have with many of the Empire units: Any ideas/stack example? I should also mention that I would prefer not to field cheese armies (19x Steam Tank is out of the question, for example). I like the Empire as a faction and the unit variety it has but I am often disappointed by their performance on the battlefield. I'm approaching turn 100 in my Empire campaign and I would like to have armies that are well rounded and fun to play and able to take on mid to high-tier AI armies of 20-30 units.
