There has been some discussion about the points value system used in WAB, so I though I'd send this (hopefully) short email to answer some of the points raised.
1. The system used is _not_ the same as that used in Warhammer, but is based upon it.
2. The main difference is that the points value of equipment varies depending on the ability of the person using it. So, for example, weapons and armour cost more points if they are used by a veteran Roman legionary than if they are used by a standard Roman legionary. The same applies to characters (generals are of more use to some armies than others), and special abilities.
3. I don't use formulas to work out points values. Instead I have a set of guidelines based on points values that are tried and tested on the tabletop, and which I know will act as a good starting point.
4. Although I have a set of guidelines which I refer to when working out points values, I don't stick to these if I think a value needs to be changed on the basis of experience and play-testing. A wargame is such a complex equation that no points value formula ever really works - you're really much better off guessing at a value and then testing it.
5. I'm not going to publish the guidelines I've made up, as I *know* that people will use them straight, rather than testing out the values. Instead, if you want to make up an army list, do what I do - guess at a value and then test, test, test!
Hope that helps,
Jervis