Optional rule on forming square

I like the way this game models the effects of square and cavalry charging them, but I have wondered about the ability to automatically form square. While it is true that infantry that is in good order, with time, could form square easily, what about when the infantry was shaken (such as the French 1st Corps while retreating/routing at Waterloo?) I have come up with an optional rule that I am starting to use, and it isn't overly play tested yet. What I do is, any unit at full strength automatically forms square if desired. If a unit has lost at least one block, you roll a number of dice equal to the remaining blocks. If an infantry, cavalry, or artillery symbol is rolled on at least one block, you can form square. An example, if two blocks are left, roll two dice. If you roll a flag and sabers, you cannot form square. If you rolled a flag and an infantry symbol, you could. What do you all think?

it adds power to cavalry, already a powerful force on the battlefield. Also, what about Austrian Battalion Mass?

I don't really like anything that further adds random chance to actions. As it stands, having to lose (temporarily) a random Command Card is a strong reason to not square, and arguably having the 2 card hand limit is a way of showing the cumulative loss of cohesion that having many squares creates. Once down to 2 cards, nobody squares, reflecting perhaps the same 'shaken' state.

On the whole, forming a square against cavalry is a losing proposition. The INF will hit 1/3 of the time, and repel 1/6
The cavalry hits 1/2 the time (EXC: Militia in both instances), and a flag can cause variable damage (0-3 hits). Without the prospect of intervention from another unit, INF in square will eventually succumb. If the cavalry has INF or ART support, then the square is doomed. So I prefer the planned combined arms interaction over what is essentially just another randomiser in the game.

I think the Break The Square card comes up often enough to simulate the failure of infantry to form square in time. IMO, a little too often. But its all on personal experience. Others may not see the card come up often.

Well, those are certainly good points. Strangely MP, that card has never really come up enough for me to have the same reaction, but it is well possible you have played the game more than I and it has averaged out. Mark, I didn't quite think of it that way, I know that forming a square is dangerous and will eventually lose out. I was thinking about the immediate loss of moral that most games use Disordered or Rout to simulate, and how it could be shown at this level.

Fair points to you both.