Alexander�s Greatest Battle

         As a first-time poster I will respectfully submit my vote for Granicus as Alexander's greatest victory, and for several reasons.   This engagement was his first against Darius' numerically superior horde and was 'played' on the Persian's home field.   The result of this battle set the psychological tone going forward for both armies.   The Macedonians gained immense confidence in themselves and their leader while Persian troops and allies must have had reservations about meeting Alexander again.    Darius' army was made up of large numbers from subjugated nations.    These men, even while conscripted into Darius' army,  must  have had their 'loyalties' severely shaken by this defeat.       

          Additionally,  I believe the very nature of how the battle played out sent significant signals  to combatants on both sides.   Alexander faced a river crossing followed by a scramble up the river's bank to meet a numerically superior enemy who waited at their leisure.   The Macedonians exerted themselves greatly before they were even able to join the battle.    Once the battle began in earnest Alexander continued to press the issue in spite of his perceived disadvantages.    His daring  cavalry charge directly at Darius' position, at great personal risk, served to panic his opponent and to  embolden his own troops.   

       Although not as aesthetically appealing as Gaugamela or as creative as the siege of Tyre, Granicus left no doubt that Alexander was going to be a force to be reckoned with.   His reckless, hellbent attack and win at Granicus left the Persians reeling and I believe did them irreparable psychological damage.        

I agree Guagamala seems to have bin more retreat then fight. 

Really, funny I always thought that Gaugemela had the best of Darius's armies.  Although it does make sense.  If your army is based on levies, then you would want to summon the most elite soldiers first.