Reading through the "Fantasy Warriors" rules from 1990's, I came across a possible Halberdier rule.
Looking at it, Halberds are a mix of Great Weapons (the heavy axe) and Spears (the length & the point), right? Meant to be used as both, depending on the situation.
So, why not use them as such?
Before combat, a unit of Halberdiers gets to choose which way they use their weapons.
- If as Great Weapons, they play exactly as if they had Great Weapons (+2 Strength, Strike Last)
- If as Spears, they play exactly as if they had Spears (Fight in Two Ranks)
I might even go as far as to suggest that they get to choose every turn. After all, a good Halberdier should be able to change his style depending on the situation, and a well drilled unit should be able to organise into different positions.)
I think this is an elegant rule to emphasise the versatility of the Halberd when compared to the other weapons.
As of point cost, I don't know for sure. They'd be more versatile than Spearmen, but cannot use shields with Halberds. They'd probably be worth of the five points.
Fluff-wise, this would give a hint of why there are so many Halberdiers, and why they've actually been the (rumoured?) key element in winning battles. (And when we get to the inferiority of the Spearmen in this scenario, just give them Pikes, and they keep on having a role on the battlefield.)
Of course, the idea of more armour options is always welcome. Although I actually think that all GW warriors have Light Armour, and those with "Light" actually have "Medium". Then Heavy, then Full Plate... It's a matter of simplification: if no-one goes naked, drop that column. (Yeah, I know, some do actually go naked... My bad...)
Generally, I think one basic Empire infantryman with options for weapons, armour, shield & drill would be the best solution. So, this idea is merely for Halberd as a weapon.
Your thoughts? Anyone familiar with Grenadier's FW?
Disclaimer: I'm a simulationist and "fluffist", dunno about game balance really. looking for a reason for Halberdiers to be equipped with just those weapons (spears would be cheaper and easier to use), and with visibly Medium armour.
-Z