Liberation of Italy gives Allied Italian players a fresh starting point.
However, the CIL does not get a simple army deal box. Instead, players need to build smart using existing kits and support options. For new players, that makes budget planning especially important. Thankfully, this guide shows three practical 100-point paths. This is a summary of a community article found here.
Three CIL Starter Builds Offer Different Budget Paths
This budget Italian CIL army breakdown focuses on getting a competitive force onto the table without buying too much at once. Since there are army deals for the main four forces but not the Italians fighting beside the Allies, the article presents two basic approaches. First, players can build from standard Italian boxes and blisters while mixing in British and American equipment.
Alternatively, they can use an American or British army deal to support a CIL formation. The first option is a CIL Parachutist Company, built around a Parachutist HQ, two or three Parachutist Platoons, Breda HMGs, 81mm mortars, and either 47mm or 6pdr anti-tank platoons. The sample 100-point list has seven units for formation break, which is excellent for staying power. It defends objectives through layered fire from 6pdrs, 81mm mortars, 25pdrs, and 17pdrs. Meanwhile, three artillery units help pin infantry and gun teams before assaults. Shermans provide mobile defense, while softskin transports let guns shift between flanks.
However, the force can also attack, using infantry and Shermans with direct-fire anti-tank support. This version costs $301, which is reasonable for a full 100-point force.
The second build uses a Gruppi di Combattimento Rifle Company with American support. The formation includes an HQ, two or three Rifle Platoons, 3-inch mortars, 6pdr anti-tank guns, and a Universal Carrier Patrol. This list has six units for formation break and mixes British-uniformed Italian infantry with American support. The Rifle Company defends objectives, while the Carrier Patrol spearheads tanks and a US Infantry Platoon forward. Also, Hellcats can overwatch or use their speed to hit tank threats on the flank. Two artillery templates help clear guns and pin defenders.
Better yet, this is the cheapest route at $246.50.
Finally, the same Rifle Company can use British support instead. This version also has six formation units and two artillery templates. However, the star is the Crocodile, with FA11, SA8, and 18 flamethrower shots. It can burn infantry and guns off objectives, while Cromwells and infantry finish the assault.
Also, its AT10 75mm gun still threatens lighter armor. At $231.50, it is the best bargain.
Summary and Final Thoughts
Overall, these CIL starter armies feel practical, flavorful, and surprisingly affordable. The Parachutists bring resilience and artillery density. Meanwhile, the American-supported rifle force adds mobility and Hellcat threat. However, the British-supported version looks like the strongest budget play.
