This article is actual brought to you in part by the Bloomington Tournament circuit. It is a stipulation of close combat which allows the targeting of multiple units.
The majority of units in the game have multiple models and so attacking multiple targets isn't unlikely, especially if they are attacking a target which contains an independent character. However it works both ways.
According to the rules, any unit that is in base to base contact with multiple enemy units may choose to separate its attacks between them.
This translates into allowing an Independent Character in base to base with multiple units to attack both. For example, and IC in base with another IC as well as an enemy unit can make attacks against both in the same round of combat. This could prove useful in some scenarios where the strength of the weapon could cause instant death on the enemy IC while allowing for maximum damage against the unit the enemy IC is with.
I have always equated the idea that since a single model unit could not charge multiple units, it couldn't separate their attacks. I learned this the hard way in the tournament this past weekend (which was quite enjoyable). Be sure to watch out for these interesting moments in your future games.
Cheers!
