I have a small question about Napoleonic era battlefield tactics. I am aware of the common tactics of the time, i.e tightly packed lines of men firing in volleys. But I was just thinking, could you produce the same amount of damage with a loose formation of staggered men (more like tactics of today), but with the benefits of not offering a huge target. I am also aware of the technology of the time and the accuracy of flintlock muskets, but to me it makes sense because you are firing at a line of men so you would do the same amount of damage.
My second question is.... Did any militaries of the time use this tactic, and what was the result?
You have to remember that a big factor during this era was cavalry and the use of them. A staggered loose formation would be an easy tempting target to a group of cavalry who would likely not find easier prey on a battlefield.
As you mentioned the accuracy of the muskets was a major issue and more massed muskets = more firepower = more damage both physically and on morale. Furthermore a regiment in line could deploy into square with relative practiced ease which would present a difficult barrier for cavalry of the time to penetrate and break up.