Anyone use Privateers?

[D0NIMATRIX]

Not just in a stack.

Let me explain:

If there is but one unit with bombard capabilities, every time it gets attacked it has a chance to take off 1 hp from the attacker. If there are two units in a stack, the less powerful one gets a shot as well as the main defender. Once the less powerful one has shot, it cannot do so again unless it is the target of an attack. Artillery (no atk/def) can only fire once at defensive bombard per turn. No exceptions. Attackers also may not be targeted more than twice per attack, whether or not the defensive bombard is successful.

Hope this helps.

 

[Theov]

In stacks they do wonders against caravels shipping settlers. I protect empty islands with them.
.
They're too weak later in the game, so I don't bother attacking ironclads with them. The ironclads will only gain experience.
.