How do you deploy your blocks?

To make unit identification easier, epsecially for new players or older players with failing sight(!) I though about deploying the Infantry units to show their type / role.

I deploy Lights in a skirmish line like this:

XXX
_X_

Auxillia in two rows with a gap between:

XX
__
XX

Medium and Heavy form a close solid block:

XX
XX


Obviously this method starts to fail once blocks are lost, but it may help.

Good idea! I am also using kind of pattern for deployment for visual satisfaction. It goes like this:
Lights - without specific order, same goes for archers, slingers, barbarians and cavalry except heavy.

Auxillia - two rows but vertical (to keep the cohesion while moving
X X
X X

Medium and Heavy infantry - close ranks in solid block

Heavy cavalry -
X
X X
(it is the elinistic style cavalry breakthrough)

Once some blocks are lost, I am always taking them from the back rows, trying to keep the front line intact, which is more reasonable than it seems, keeping in mind that it represents the cohesion lost.

I've also seen this pattern used for Cavalry with attached Leaders:

X
XL
X

Our house style is:

Lights
X X

X X

Auxilia and Warriors
XX
XX

Mediums and Heavies
X
X
X
X

Hoplites still being decided upon but experimenting with a diamond.
.X
XX
.X

Cavalry are all:
.X
XX
Although my opponent likes to see the lights more spread out.

Elephants and Chariots are staggered:
X
.X

Leaders are usually of to the side or the back and never actually leading. :huh:

All blocks standing up, of course.

Phill

We use figs !:laugh:
More seriously, Light troops are with space in the hex (sorry for my bad formulation) and medium or heavy are more compact (less the warriors).
LI use only spears and javelines (sometimes green shields).
AUX use spears, swords and green shields.
Warriors are running figs (with blue).
Medium and heavy are more quiet figs (blue or red shields)
The same for the CAV.
Greetz from Le Mans