Catapult - Method of Fire and Triangulation

[daedalus]

What do the rules intend when they describe the Method of Fire for catapults and in particular, how does triangulation work?

The example in 3rd edition (2nd printing) is "Firing 28", 8" right" and this results in the missile falling 28" along the hypotenuse of the resulting triangle (ignoring the optional over-shoot / under-shoot). 

Why can't players just say 'Fire 28" ' along any line they want (within the arc of fire)?

That seems much simpler to me, which likely means I'm missing something basic here.

Please help me understand what I'm missing! 

Thanks in advance!

[derv]

It just adds some complexity since you are not pre-measuring. It's worth pointing out that since the maximum arc is 45 degrees you cannot exceed your called range in windage right or left. That means a light catapult can fire a max of 30" right or left when firing at a range of 30".

Honestly, I think the method is to simulate something similar to modern artillery or mortar fire where you're zeroing in on the target.

[howandwhy99]

My best guess is the designers are referring to a gridded battle ground for fast, simplified movement, reach, and melee distances. Angled missile ranges might be triangulated for accurate distance on these.

It does seem obvious a non-gridded battle ground for wargames using inch-marked string or sticks would result in easier aiming for the player. But maybe making it hard and a math problem was the point? Or the other bits were too hard without the grid? I don't know.