Mobile Ranged Unit Improvement

[BigJMoney]

In Dominions, there isn't much difference between cavalry archers, archers, slingers, etc. other than the damage their weapons do. However, some of these units are dedicated ranged units, while others are mobile ranged units. Let me propose a simple change (though not necessarily technically easy) to create some diversity between the units. Even if this isn't possible in this version of the game, I think it would be worth considering for the future.

First of all, let me divide ranged units into two categories: regular and mobile. Regular ranged units would include all foot archers and crossbowmen and possibly some units that possess supernatural ranged attacks. Mobile ranged units would be javelineers, slingers, mounted archers and possibly some units that possess supernatural ranged attacks.

What would be the difference? The only single technical difference would be that mobile units can move and fire in the same turn, while regular ranged units must choose between either. However, I also propose a simple AI addition to make this difference stand out. My proposition is a "skirmish" option to soldier scripting. Skirmish behavior would follow as such: A unit would move towards its target and fire. It will keep moving towards its target until it is within no less than 15 squares. It will then disengage to at least 15 squares every turn it is within a distance of less than 15 squares (if it can) and continue firing. After it is out of ammo, it will engage in melee.

MISC NOTES
- The skirmish option in the battle script should probably function like the attack or fire option; ie. allowing the input of a target.
- Skirmish should be the default behavior of some mobile ranged units.
- Maybe instead of calling them "mobile ranged units" they can have a special icon and be called "skirmishers".
- A "skirmish and retreat" behavior that has the units retreat after they are out of ammo or near the map edge would also be desirable.
- skirmishing units might take a -2 penalty to precision if they move and fire. If not that, set the precision of mobile ranged units a bit lower than dedicated ranged units.
- carrying javelins could increase encumbrance, thus light infantry would be ideally suited to carrying them.

=$= Big J Money =$=