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What are the differences between Optional Contingents and Allied Troops? The rules give basic limitations for Allied Troop options, but it is not clear whether Optional Contingents are included in those limitations. Any other considerations we should keep in mind?

Also - has anybody had any success in using optional troops and what tips would you offer or any pitfalls to avoid (other than splitting your army into too many battle groups requiring lots of pips)?

Thanks!!

The major difference is this:

Allied troops cannot group move with the main force, only with their own allied portion.

Optional contingents are still from the main culture and under the command of the main commanders, and so have no restriction on group moving with the main force. In essence, optional contingents are part of the main army that may, or may not, be taken, but must be taken as a block rather than as separate line items like "Heavy Foot".