clench

I don't think scaling is as big of a problem as you get better at the game.. and I say that with the most respect possible. I'm not just saying get gud noob. This game has a learning curve and the more you understand the better you perform. Eventually you'll be wanting more enemies to fight, not less. You'll find that scaling isn't a problem with the game, it's what keeps it interesting. I think one of the main issues is that most people are reluctant to select easy difficulty mode. I think it's very beneficial to play one or two campaigns on easy mode to pick up the basics and learn some of the maps. I think it can certainly be improved. It effects more maps than others and each side differently.(I'm looking at you Shiloh and Antietam) I think the historical battles should be hard, but I also think you should be progressing toward them and planning for them, so the enemy numbers shouldn't change too much. Shiloh definitely provides a steep difficulty curve because of the scaling, especially as Union, and if you've been squeaking by up to that point I suggest a campaign on easy mode. What I would like to see is more side missions before the historical battles and have them effect the enemy setup for the main battles. Win Thoroughfare Gap as Union? You also stop a few brigades from joining the battle as reinforcements for the AI at 2nd Bull Run. Give me a reason to smash my first corps at South Mountain right before Antietam besides just some extra manpower and money.

I don't think there is really anything that wrong with this. You are risking your own troops to casualties as well. Sometimes I've taken some unnecessary casualties because of this.

Well, you can pretty much beat Shiloh as CSA with just the AI's troops. Outflank them at the Hornet's Nest and just keep as many as you can from getting to the Pittsburg Landing.

I think the Lorenz rifle is the best all around weapon for your elite troops. Above average shooting stats and almost the same melee as the Palmetto. You can get enough of them on both sides to equip at least one brigade with them, sometimes two. The M1841 Mississippi is also a really good choice for CSA elites.