Phalangites.

[Scipio Second]

I am probably disturbing the wasp nest here, but what the heck. In my study of the use of the Macedonian phalanx I conclude that it was extremely effect in attacking its front. I am not sure what "nimble" means in relation to its viability. The fact remains that because it used long pikes, it was an awkward formation to turn or reverse directions. Use of cavalry to protect its flanks was effective. Nonetheless by the time the Romans faced the Macedonians, the Macedonian phalanx was antiquated. That has nothing to do with the bravery of its soldiers or the capability of its commander. The Romans discarded the long pikes and adopted the short sword and shield. That made their formations highly flexible and deadly. Granting centurions freedom to control their formations allowed quicker reaction on the battlefield. It was an effective alternative.