Not to be confused with Fusiliers (Line Infantry). For other uses of the term, see Fusiliers.
Fusiliers are a type of light infantry in Napoleon: Total War.
Description[]
Light infantry are skirmishers who harass the enemy while screening the main body of an army.
These men are versatile soldiers: whether firing in a disciplined line or skirmishing in loose formation, they bring a good self-discipline and accuracy to the battle. They carry smoothbore, muzzle-loading muskets, but do not rely on massed fire. Instead they aim at individuals within the enemy ranks, killing officers, sergeants and anyone else who takes charge. They also fight their own specialised battle, driving off enemy skirmishers. However, they may prove weak when pitted against line infantry or highly expert skirmishers such as riflemen.
By the early 1800s, light infantry had a much greater role on the battlefield, at least in Napoleon’s forces. Many armies still saw light infantry as little more than auxiliary troops, choosing to favour the old, tried and tested tactics of massed volley fire and close formations. Napoleon, on the other hand, recognised the advantage flexibility conferred, and used light infantry extensively, to harass enemy lines to pieces, then closing up for a final rush.
General Information[]
While fusiliers are unique to Hessen, their abilities are average: they are statistically identical to Light Infantry in every way, and fill the same purpose on the battlefield: light troops that inflict good damage at range and can fight in tight or loose formations, but that are inferior in melee combat.
For more information, see Light Infantry (Unit Type).