Hi all,
Regarding javelins, I tend to agree with Scott that they might not be so affective. However, I would apply that to all missile fire in antiquity. :) There is a reason that most of the fighting was done by spear point and cold steel...er...Iron! That said, they do only hit on a 6 and the ace units (generals and such) are immune.
Regarding skirmishers, the idea comes from the Field of Glory computer game. It works marvelously well. Remember that once the skirmisher evades in a turn, it can't do it again until next turn. So if you attack it with a slow unit and follow up with a fast unit, you will catch it.
Other ideas Scott had about skirmishers being controlled by a single order is good. Maybe they have to be within a base width of the rest of the skirmish line like a loose group? I also like the idea of them not counting toward the army break point or maybe only half as much of a unit.
Finally, Mark are you still looking for play testers? If so, I would like to lend a hand.
John