i got crushed by the banitoads so how

Banditoads tend to bring a lot of firepower, with a lot of musketeer-type ranged talents. They also often bring along Mander-looking swashbucklers, with their own melee talents.

To minimize triggering their deadly talents, focus your Melee fighters (swashbucklers, buccaneers and most privateers) on the musketeer toads, and use your shooty musketeers against the blade-wielding manders. Mojo's a separate category entirely, so witchdoctors, have at it!

Many Banditoads also have Flanking and/or Crossfire, which gives them a bonus attack when two of their units surround one of yours. The more spread out your team gets, the easier it is for them to use this against you. You can minimize their flanking opportunities by backing up against a wall, or by keeping your crew together in a tight group.