"Tercios Basing Question" Topic

I have reviewed the "Brevis" version of the Tecios rules by Liber MIilitum and want to buy them, but I have a basing question first. Page 26 of the rules indicates that Tercios "can give up the Squares . . . basing the Squadron as a Classic Squadron . . ." I am unclear what that means. Does it mean that I need two sets of bases of units which are Tercios, one as square and one as a rectangle for a Classic Squadron? Does it mean that Tercios can change formations during the game?

I appreciate the responses.

I don't have the "Brevis" version but do have the full. Essentially these are two tactical concepts. There is the "field square" base which is the tercio in all of its glory: a large block of pike with the corners of shot and there is a variation called the "Tercio" which is a rectangle with sleeves of shot. They represent how the Tercio formation evolved. Then you have the "classic" which is what you describe as a rectangle in same proportions as the later Tercio. These were non-Tercio units used during the TYW. In the full, there are other formations as well (reformed, modern, etc.). Each one represents a different tactical approach on the battlefield and are available to different armies and have different characteristics. An earlier TYW catholic army may have some field squares and classic formations. Hope this helps, if you need more clarification I'd be happy to help.

The units cannot change formation during the game. The option allows you to field a Tercio in either of its recognised formations, the "Field Square" or the "Tercio".

They are actually "deployments" not "formations" and relevant to different phases of the wars. Depending on which eras you are gaming you may need both sets of bases or a sabot system.

I appreciate the responses. I clearly need to do more research on the era. I am most interested in the Spanish armies. Which eras are best supported by 15mm miniatures ranges? Do the Tercios rules come with any historical scenarios?

No historical scenarios but the rulebook has 6 standard battle set ups with victory conditions (tournament style) and the "Kingdoms" supplement has another 6 so you get 12 in all.

15mm figure options are almost limitless.

The guys behind Tercios are (slowly) working on an Italian Wars version with the earlier unit types, formations and tactics so options will increase even more.

Are Khurasan and Totentanz miniatures compatible?

Hey, you folks are talking about "Tercio", I tried Googleing them only to be told simply that they are out of print. Where can I find some? Please keep in mind, I am in the "colonies".

On Military Matters.