Liberator said:Well, legionaries' turtle formations are against missiles and hackings. But can be panetrated by Crossbow.
I suggest, a book borrowed from the library about Chinese crossbow and missile weapons aswell as "The arrow storm" will help.
If the Legionaires get up close, its not that China will lose the battle, China has great cavalries that can tramble Romans. Just like the Germans. China has soldiers with high shield and short swords as well. Well up close, the battle will be a rubbish on both sides, the formations will spread.
The Roman Legionaries were very good. Once both armies made contact, the Crossbow will be neutralize, unless you also want to shoot your own men. If I were a Roman General that is what I would do. Reach the Chinese line as fast as possible.
Cavalry at this time were not as effective without stirrups, the Roman Legions have enough discipline to not break during a cavalry charge. Unless you are talking about horse archers.