This book outlines the codified rules of behavior all members of the Warrior Caste are
expected to uphold. It is the very definition of what it means to be a MechWarrior. You must
study it well, for ignorance of its contents is grounds for caste demotion.
Each passage represents centuries of testing and modification, trial and error. The protocol
contained herein has descended from Kerensky’s own words. There are only two books that
are older than this one and still being read,
fore expected to live and die by its instructions.
The Warrior Caste is above all others in the Clan. The Laborer, the Technician, the Merchant
and the Scientist all look to you for guidance, for you are the most perfect of all perfection.
The Warrior is the very top of culture. You are the teacher and the protector, the governor
and the parent.
As a MechWarrior you will fight in the Touman for the glory of the Clans. There is no higher
honor, no greater glory, than to enter combat outnumbered by the largest margin possible
and emerge victorious.
Your tool in the field is the BattleMech. It is your mount. You will learn to pilot it. You will
become part of it and it, you. The BattleMech is designed to translate your will into the
actions of the machine. As a MechWarrior, your very thoughts equal your foe’s defeat.
Combat is your life. Fear not death. The honorable will find their end in the field. Honor is the
lifeblood of the MechWarrior. Without honor the MechWarrior is worth less than the dust
whence he came. There is no virtue above honor. Without honor there is not life.
Trials of Grievance can be called by MechWarriors to resolve conflicts against other warriors
who have displayed dishonorable behavior. Trial of Grievance protocol requires MechWarriors to report for instant action upon being called to a Trial. The opposing warrior must
accept this challenge for no other reason than to defend his honor. Clan members have been
known to call Trials of Grievance against other warriors simply out of envy of another
warrior’s performance or Clan ranking. Trials can be fought regardless of a MechWarrior’s
current Clan rank since they neither progress nor hinder a BattleMech pilot’s advancement.
To engage in immediate battle, a MechWarrior need only accept the conditions of the scenario and give the order to LAUNCH.
Scenario
A MechWarrior calling a Trial of Grievance has the right to select the battlefield upon
which he wishes to engage in battle. A MechWarrior need only select the planet of choice
to determine the atmospheric conditions and terrain characteristics that are to affect the
imminent engagement.
Friendly Clan/Enemy Clan
J ’Mech Deployment
MechWarriors can choose to lead a Star of up to three BattleMechs to a Trial of Grievance. However, employing excessive tonnage or deploying more ’Mechs than the opposing Clan has committed to defies Trial of Grievance protocol. The Keshik advises that
MechWarriors take caution in the selection of BattleMech technology – unfair or wasteful
deployment of Friendly and Enemy technology will not be tolerated.
TRIALS OF GRIEVANCE
1
2
TRIALS OF GRIEVANCE
J Star Formation
A commander of a Star can select tactical Star formations prior to launch. By determining
the general starmate positions from the Trial of Grievance display, a MechWarrior can
issue an immediate Star formation order. Refer to “Tactical Star Formations” in the Pre-Launch Protocol section.
J Clan Affiliation
Before launching on a Trial of Grievance, a MechWarrior must identify his Clan affiliation
by displaying his Clan symbol under Friendly Star. Then he must confirm the Clan that
he is calling to a Trial of Grievance by identifying the Enemy Clan symbol: Jade Falcon,
Wolf, Ghost Bear, Nova Cat, Steel Viper or Smoke Jaguar.
’Mech Lab
The ’Mech Design Lab allows commanders of a Star to view the ’Mech technology they
will be leading into battle. It also allows experienced MechWarriors to deploy customized
BattleMech designs into combat. Commanders can access the ’Mech Lab Holoprojector to
select different BattleMechs for themselves or to assign to their starmates. Refer to
Appendix B – Procedures for Customizing a BattleMech.
Star
MechWarriors engaging in Trials of Grievance can ready themselves for battle by reassigning the positions of the current ’Mechs in their Star unit to the three different points
in a Star configuration. Upon issuing the STAR command to activate the Star Configuration Holoprojector, MechWarriors can review the Star positions of each of the ’Mech they
will be leading into the Trial of Grievance. Refer to “Star Configuration” in the Pre-Launch Protocol section.
Non-Combat Protocol
Registration
Upon entering the CLAN HALL, all pilots within a sibling company are required to register
their pilot names on the sibko roster. Upon activating the REGISTRATION orb, a Mech-
Warrior’s rank and vital statistics are also recorded in order to complete the required pilot
sign-in.
Cadet Training
It is recommended that all cadets undergo rigorous training drills prior to solo piloting on
advanced ’Mech combat missions. Cadets are advised to report to CADET TRAINING immediately following registration. Once inside the Training Quarters, cadets should review the
standard training missions and await instruction on NAV Computer training. Each drill brings
green pilots one step closer to their first Trial of Position in which cadets will have the opportunity to battle for the rank of MechWarrior.
J NAV Computer
Designed to teach cadets to navigate by following a NAV sequence while mastering the
basic movement controls of a ’Mech.
J ’Mech Handling
Requires a pilot to practice advanced ’Mech throttle and steering techniques by running a
’Mech through a slalom.
NON-COMBAT PROTOCOL
3
J Weapons Usage
Hones cadet targeting skills using on-board weapons systems to hit various targets while
challenging ’Mech maneuvering skills in “The Gauntlet.”
NON-COMBAT PROTOCOL
J Hunting
Takes training cadets on a hunting-and-killing expedition against a drone ’Mech.
J Inspection
Instructs cadets to inspect likely targets and investigate their contents while under fire.
J Trial of Position
Initiates a cadet in his first trial where he must hunt and destroy a veteran MechWarrior
in one-on-one combat for a chance to earn the rank of MechWarrior.
Clan Archive
Registration gives MechWarriors unlimited access to the ARCHIVE HOLOPROJECTOR, the
repository of all knowledge of the Clans. This immense research facility, once the place
where the great IlKahns went to conduct studies on diverse subjects, holds exclusive Clan
intelligence. IlKahns could access information on the historical combat techniques of the
greatest Clan warriors or the technological differences of various BattleMech configurations.
The Clan Archive offers classified information that could prove to better prepare a MechWarrior before launching combat missions against enemies of unknown worlds.
4
Career Advancement
A MechWarrior shall earn the right of advancement through his career as determined by the
Keshik war council. The Keshik actively evaluates the performance of each combat engagement a MechWarrior accepts, recording victorious performance as well as that which is
deemed dishonorable by the Clan. The Keshik duly rewards MechWarriors demonstrating
exceptional piloting skills and a superior use of weaponry that adhere to Clan rules of
engagement. The Keshik shall advise a MechWarrior of his eligibility for Clan advancement
upon substantiation of a warrior’s merit.
Clan Trials of Position
Upon thorough evaluation by the Keshik, a MechWarrior deemed worthy of advancement
in rank will be notified of his right to participate in a Trial of Position. Clan protocol for
such privileged battles requires a candidate to succeed in two distinct phases of a Trial ofPosition to be granted all ranks in question. The first phase requires the honorable defeat
of all engaging ’Mech opponents. Once all opponents in Phase 1 are destroyed, the candidate will receive the trial moderator’s audio cue to continue. The audio signal will instruct
the candidate to target and destroy a specified non-’Mech target – the EngagementSphere – for Phase 2 officially to begin. If the candidate destroys the target before the
cue, he will be forced to engage both Phase 1 and Phase 2 ’Mechs simultaneously. Upon
completing Phase 1, the candidate can choose to retain the rank earned or continue the
Trial for the right to earn a second rank. If the candidate accepts the second phase by
destroying the Engagement Sphere within 15 seconds of the audio cue, he must proceed to
defeat all Phase 2 opponents in order to succeed in the Trial of Position and earn the
right to advance two Clan ranks. Should a candidate accept to continue, but fail to succeed
in Phase 2, he must depart the Trial without earning a single rank.
Ranking Structure
A BattleMech pilot begins his career as a MechWarrior – the lowest-ranking member of
the Warrior Caste with the right to command a ’Mech. A MechWarrior’s ultimate goal is
to become Khan of his Clan. For this highest honor, a MechWarrior must excel throughout
his career by achieving each possible rank and surpassing the highest levels of Clan
honor before being invited to the last Trial of Position for Galaxy Commander and Khan.
1st Rank – MechWarrior
2nd Rank – Star Commander
3rd Rank – Nova Commander
4th Rank – Star Captain
5th Rank – Nova Captain
6th Rank – Star Colonel
7th Rank – Nova Colonel
8th Rank – Galaxy Commander
Top Rank – Khan
Hall of Honor
The Hall of Honor reveres the pilots that have earned the overall highest honor in battle.
These master warriors are archived by name, rank, honor and skill.
NON-COMBAT PROTOCOL
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NON-COMBAT PROTOCOL
Rules of Engagement
We are bound by the rules and traditions of our great forefathers to uphold the honor and
glory of the Clans. Clan warfare follows a strict code of honor – a glorious method that is
designed to preserve life rather than destroy it. Only warriors adhering to such codes
shall emerge victorious and worthy of the honor of being BattleMech pilots. MechWarriors shall strive for perfection in combat, perfection in the life of a warrior – all for the
glory of the Clans.
J
The successful completion of the primary objectives of a mission shall bestow unto
a MechWarrior the glory of a victorious battle.
J
Performance beyond the call of duty, qualified by the successful completion of any
secondary or tertiary objectives a mission may call for, shall commend a MechWarrior with the highest honor of the Clan.
J
By fighting a war with fewer combatants, fewer lives are lost. Engaging in battle
with the fewest ’Mechs possible, in the tradition of the
warrior with the highest honor of battle.
J
Deploying lighter ’Mechs into combat than the Keshik deems necessary and preserv-
ing the technology of the Clans shall give a MechWarrior much honor through his
career.
J
Engaging in battle with more than one ’Mech against a sole MechWarrior holds the
least honor; one-on-one combat holds the highest Clan honor.
J
A MechWarrior commanding a Star is held responsible for his starmates. The loss of
a starmate is deemed a dishonored act in the tradition of Clan warfare and shall be
noted.
J
Engaging in battle under the condition of Altered Reality, which causes a pilot to
battle under the false belief of Invulnerability or Unlimited Ammo, shall deny a
MechWarrior’s advancement through his career.
J
Knowingly piloting a ’Mech whose Heat Tracking and Collision Damage system
have been altered shall earn a MechWarrior great dishonor.
Batchall
, shall uphold a
Pre-Launch Protocol
Mission Briefing
Upon reporting to the READY ROOM, each MechWarrior will receive a detailed MISSION
BRIEFING in the form of an incoming coded message from the Keshik prior to launching a
mission. The MISSION BRIEFING will describe the mission instructions, the objectives of the
mission and a situational report of the ongoing conflict.
Mission Types
The Keshik’s mission instructions will follow combat procedures for one of the five
mission types to which a MechWarrior can be commissioned to: (1) Strike (2) Defend (3)
Escort (4) Combat Patrol, or (5) Reconnaissance. Each mission will call for the
exceptional piloting of a BattleMech with the correct combination of stealth, speed and a
decisive mix of weaponry and firepower that is tailored to the type of mission at hand.
Refer to “BattleMech Selection” in this section for strategic advice on effective use of
BattleMech resources.
PRE-LAUNCH PROTOCOL
Mission Objectives
Each combat mission is preceded by a mission briefing that details the objectives of the
combat scenario a MechWarrior is about to embark on. Most missions consist of multiple
objectives that create the focus of a mission, encompassing not only one or several
Primary Objectives (which are the mandatory objectives of the mission), but also secondary and often tertiary objectives.
A BattleMech pilot’s precise understanding of the objectives of an assignment will prove
beneficial to his career. The Primary Objectives of a mission convey the minimal
accomplishments a MechWarrior is expected to achieve for the mission to be deemed a
success. The completion of any secondary and/or tertiary objectives will warrant honor
and glory above and beyond that of an honorable victory.
7
In addition to the Primary Objectives of a mission, Mechwarriors are often required to
destroy Targets of Opportunity that may appear during a mission. These targets consist of
enemy objects which are not explicitly described in the mission briefing, but are nonetheless
viable targets whose destruction will hamper the enemy’s war machine.
Various conflict scenarios also require a MechWarrior to meet an additional Return Condi-tion before the mission can be declared officially over. This requires a MechWarrior to pilot
his ’Mech to a pre-determined destination for a dropship departure or a ”dust-off” extraction. This condition promotes the preservation of technology, by allowing the Clans to
confirm the integrity of the deployed BattleMech and lessening the risk of enemy-captured
’Mech technology.
Situational Report
MechWarriors are advised to review the situational report section of each mission briefing
for a broader understanding of the state of affairs that may affect the battle scenario. The
situational report expands on the mission objectives relating them to the global political
unrest within the Universe.
BattleMech Selection
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PRE-LAUNCH PROTOCOL
The Keshik will advise a MechWarrior on the suitable BattleMech technology for each
assigned mission. However, a MechWarrior is entitled to review available Clan technology
within applicable weight limitations set by the Keshik and select an alternate ’Mech according
to a pilot’s preference.
’Mech Types
The modern BattleMech is perhaps the most complex machine ever produced. Incorporating complex methodologies to create war machines with different areas of superiority,
BattleMech technology has succeeded in developing a reserve of BattleMech models with
varying battle advantages.
By exploring the unique capabilities of each BattleMech, MechWarriors can evaluate a
’Mech’s strengths and weaknesses in the areas of size, weight, speed, firepower, maneuverability and stealth. This aids a MechWarrior in tailoring the deployment of a ’Mech to
the specific objectives and environmental conditions of a mission. For example, a common
deployment tactic is using a lightweight class ’Mech for reconnaissance missions since
they are known for being highly efficient in expeditious inspections of enemy territories, yet
not heavily armored.
Refer to Appendix D — Diagrams of the BattleMechs for configuration specifics on
Clan technology.
J Firemoth
Trading armor for a top speed of 162 kph, the 20-ton Firemoth is the fastest Clan ’Mech
in existence. Known for its ability to pack a powerful punch against ’Mechs up to 10-15
tons heavier, its light weight and notable speed makes it an excellent machine for
recon patrol or scouting.
J Kitfox
At 30 tons and topping out at 100 kph, the Kitfox is clearly a fast combat machine.
With a greater space for weaponry and equipment, the Kitfox offers a better spread of
weapons and stronger armor, making it a popular ’Mech for training and a wise selection for newer pilots.
J Jenner II-C
At 35 tons, the lightweight Jenner II-C boasts additional missile packs and a top speed
of 150 kph — a considerable improvement on the Inner Sphere Jenner. Recognized as a
fast-moving missile boat, this Clan renovation is dangerously ammo-dependent and
takes the risk of becoming an unfortunate observer.
J Nova
As the first ’Mech in the medium-weight line-up equipped with jump jet capability, the
Nova is recognized for its agility in getting out of tight spots. At 50 tons and extensive
firepower for its size, the Nova has proven effective in patrol or defense missions.
PRE-LAUNCH PROTOCOL
9
J Stormcrow
The Stormcrow offers 55 tons of solid combat power. With a potent spread of
weapons, substantial speed and strong armor values, the Stormcrow is a wellbalanced all-around ’Mech capable of completing most combat objectives effectively.
J Mad Dog
A solid medium-weight ’Mech, the Mad Dog displays a solid mix of weapons for its
60 tons of fighting metal. Widely utilized for its long-range firepower, the Mad Dog is
capable of giving a serious punch and is tough enough to take one.
J Hellbringer
The Hellbringer boasts a good spread of weapons across the board. At 65 tons, the
Hellbringer is a fast, tough, all-around ’Mech that is exceptionally effectual in closerange battle and defensive missions.
J Rifleman II-C
This 65-ton Inner Sphere retrofit benefits from the addition of pulse lasers and jump
jets. Though a tough contender, the Rifleman II-C is slow and often forces pilots to
employ jump jets for escaping an attack rather than lateral movement. It is noted for its
deftness in defense and combat patrol.
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PRE-LAUNCH PROTOCOL
J Summoner
At 70 tons and equipped with jump jets, the primary configuration of the Summoner is
one of the heavier ’Mechs with jump capability. The Summoner is popular for its
invaluable combination of speed, weaponry and jump capacity.
J Timberwolf
This 75-ton machine is favored by Clan Wolf for its incredible versatility and ability to
take a serious pounding. A popular reverse-joint ’Mech or “chicken-walker,” the Timberwolf is equipped with one of almost every type of weapon and is commonly used
by Clan commanders.
J Gargoyle
The Gargoyle packs its 80 tons with powerful firepower; however its weapons are highly
ammo-intensive and demand a pilot’s constant gauging of depleted ammo. A superior
close-range ’Mech, the Gargoyle is often employed for urban fighting and civil unrest.
J Warhammer II-C
This 80-ton heavy ’Mech retrofit is a popular deployment amongst the Clans. Wellknown for its durability and its even spread of weapons, the Warhammer II-C is
capable of enduring extensive combat patrol and strike missions while inflicting a considerable amount of damage.
J Warhawk
This 85-ton assault ’Mech carries a 10-missile pack that can pepper an enemy from distances unreachable by most enemy opponents. With four particle projectile cannons that
can be fired in one fell swoop, this ’Mech is highly regarded for its intense mix of firepower.
J Marauder II-C
Much like the Inner Sphere variant, the 85-ton Marauder II-C is equipped with a host
of lasers and PPCs, making it a fierce close-range and defense opponent. With a
maximum speed of 64.8 kph, the Marauder II-C is often highly regarded for its phenomenal endurance in combat.
J Dire Wolf
Weighing 100 tons, the Dire Wolf is the heaviest of the Clan ’Mechs. It carries a large
amount of weaponry that allows it to take a major beating before an imminent breakdown. However, due to the frontal location of its cockpit and speed that’s hindered by
its immense mass, the Dire Wolf can quickly become an easy target for faster ’Mechs.
PRE-LAUNCH PROTOCOL
11
BattleMech Components
The internal structure of a BattleMech is composed of eight sections: Head, Center Torso, Left
and Right Torso, Left and Right Arms, and Left and Right Legs. Each of these sections serves as a
designated area for carrying weapons, ammunition or additional equipment in a BattleMech.
The following are the systems that comprise a BattleMech:
12
Left TorsoRight Torso
Left ArmRight Arm
Left Leg Right Left
PRE-LAUNCH PROTOCOL
Head
Center
Torso
J Engines
BattleMechs can be equipped with a wide variety of engines to determine maximum land
speed. There are two types of engines: standard or XL engines. The XL engines are retrofit
standard engines with new and lighter shielding materials, greatly reducing overall
engine weight at the cost of compactness. Although normal engine weight is halved,
additional engine critical space must be allocated to both the Right and Left Torsos.
J Cockpit/Gyroscope
Every BattleMech includes a cockpit containing the MechWarrior’s control station, lifesupport system and electronic sensors. Damage to a ’Mech’s control components
impacts its ability to move and jump. In addition to a cockpit, every BattleMech is
equipped with a powerful gyroscope to keep it upright and able to move.
J Internal Structure
Internal structure is the backbone of the ’Mech. A BattleMech’s internal structure can
be designed in using one of two Clan technologies: standard or Endo Steel. Made with
zero-G manufacturing techniques that mix high-density steel with lower-density titanium
and aluminum, Endo Steel is twice as strong per unit of weight as standard materials.
However, strength is traded at an increase in overall bulk requiring more critical space in
a ’Mech’s internal structure.
J Heat Sinks
Heat sinks supply a BattleMech with the ability to dissipate heat internally. Double heat
sinks can cool a ’Mech much more efficiently with a heat-dissipation rate that is twice
as fast as that of standard heat sinks. Although double sinks weigh the same as standard heat sinks, the double versions are considerably bulkier and take up extra space
aboard a ’Mech. At one ton and two critical slots each, Torso-mounted double sinks
tend to limit space for weapons. Refer to “Heat Management, under “Basic Piloting” in
the Combat Protocol section.
J Jump Jets
Most ’Mechs can be equipped with jump jets located in pods in the Leg and Torso areas
to allow jump movement. Jump jets may only be mounted if there are sufficient critical
slots in these areas. To gain desired jump capacity, a MechWarrior must evaluate the
environmental conditions of the mission as well as the overall mass of the ’Mech being
customized before determining the number of jump jets being added.
J Armor
A BattleMech’s armor provides the protective covering for its internal structure and critical components. There are two types of armor a pilot can choose to assign to a BattleMech: normal or Ferro-Fibrous armor. Ferro-Fibrous armor is an improved version of
the ordinary BattleMech armor in that it greatly increases a ’Mech’s tensile strength.
Although this advanced armor gives a ’Mech a greater armor factor for the same
weight, it is bulkier than its equivalent weight of standard armor plating and requires
more critical space in a ’Mech’s internal structure.
J Weapons Systems
Pilots can equip their ’Mechs with any mix of weapons their assigned base chassis will
support. MechWarriors must weigh the advantages of using different energy, missile or
ballistic weapons systems against the weight and space considerations of all possible
combinations. Some weapons systems are more powerful at the expense of greater
heat buildup, while other weapons cause less damage but have greater distance
advantages. Refer to “Weaponry” in the Combat Protocol section.
J Ammunition
All weapons other than energy weapons (e.g., lasers) require a pre-allocated supply of
ammunition that can be determined by each pilot. Ammo must also be allocated to
critical slots within a ’Mech’s internal structure.
PRE-LAUNCH PROTOCOL
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PRE-LAUNCH PROTOCOL
J Equipment
Every BattleMech is equipped with CASE (Cellular Ammunition Storage Equipment), a
damage-control technology that mitigates the effects of internal ammunition explosions. When ammo explodes in a location with CASE, the force of the explosion is
directed away from the ’Mech’s vital components, such as the cockpit or the engine.
A pilot can choose to equip his ’Mech with MASC, enabling the capability of short bursts
of speed. Refer to “MASC” under “Advanced Piloting” in the Combat Protocol section.
J Criticals
All components housed within a BattleMech must be assigned to critical slots within
a ’Mech’s internal structure. The number of available critical slots in each section of a
’Mech’s base chassis limits the mix of weapons and equipment with which any particular ’Mech can be configured. The construction of a BattleMech cannot be completed
until each item has been assigned to the requisite number of critical slots.
Balancing a ’Mech
The ’MECH LAB allows BattleMech pilots to customize their ’Mechs with any legal mix of
speed, armor, weaponry and equipment. The ’Mech Design Lab is accessible to experienced MechWarriors who opt for battle in customized BattleMechs or to pilots who wish to
redesign their assigned ’Mechs.
’Mech construction consists of adding components to a standard chassis while maintaining
a workable balance of BattleMech current mass and available critical space. Any design
involves weighing the advantage of one capability over another. For example, a ’Mech can
be constructed with extensive firepower, but the extra weight will make for a slow design.
Refer to Appendix B — Procedures for Customizing a BattleMech.
Star Configuration
The organization of ’Mechs on the battlefield is based on a squadron of ’Mechs – the Star. A
Star can include up to three members, with one member being the designated leader and
commander of the Star. After each mission briefing, a MechWarrior is advised to consult the
STAR CONFIGURATION Holoprojector to review the recommended ’Mech deployment. Here a
MechWarrior can access information on the total mass, the maximum mass per ’Mech and
the maximum number of Star points the Keshik has assigned to the mission.
At this point, pilots can choose to add or delete starmates (up to the Keshik’s maximum deployment recommendation) and launch the mission with a larger or smaller Star. Once the size of
the Star is determined, a Star commander can re-select a base chassis for himself or his starmate(s) – or customize the existing ’Mech configurations for the entire Star while staying within
the limits set by the Keshik on the size of the Star and the maximum weight of each ’Mech.
MechWarriors can also reassign the positions of their Star unit’s BattleMechs to one of six different Star formations before each mission. All starmates will begin in formation awaiting
orders at the beginning of each mission. Star formations can also be changed during a mission
after launch has taken place in response to enemy activity. A strategic reformation of a Star
could determine a Star unit’s victory or defeat.
Re-configuration of a Star is most effectively implemented once a MechWarrior has determined
the direction from which impending enemy threats are detected. MechWarriors must be prepared to assign Star configurations in response to the assumed tactical stance of each mission
(i.e., offensive, defensive or reconnaissance), as well as to the situational conditions of combat.
In order to easily identify starmates while in battle, a Star commander can reassign his starmates’ Callsigns by selecting the name above each starmate in the Star Configuration
Holoprojector.
PRE-LAUNCH PROTOCOL
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PRE-LAUNCH PROTOCOL
Tactical Star Formations
J Line Abreast
This side-by-side formation is useful in bringing an entire unit’s weapons to bear on
enemies positioned directly in the frontline of travel. It promotes accuracy in usage of
weapons systems without a need for complex ’Mech handling or navigation.
J Line Astern
This configuration assigns ’Mechs to a single-file formation recommended for strike missions heading straight into heavily concentrated enemy territories. The Line Astern formation is highly effective during enemy ambushes heading perpendicular to the Star, or if an
enemy attack from the sides is highly probable.
J Eschelon Left
This diagonal Star formation leads its wingmen at a 45-degree left-angle. Useful when
an enemy threat is positioned forward and to the left, this configuration ensures protection while allowing an open line of fire for efficient weapons usage.
J Eschelon Right
The alternate diagonal Star formation leads its wingmen forward and to the right at a
45-degree angle, providing a clear angle of fire while allowing protection of the flanks.
This configuration is most effective when the enemy is believed to be approaching from a
forward-right direction, employing wing men as guards.
J Wedge
This Star formation, regarded highly honorable, allows the Star commander to tactically
divide an enemy formation with maximum backup. Such a Star configuration maneuver
is dangerous, yet recommended in scenarios involving heavy reconnaissance and
minimal defensive action.
J V-Formation
This all-purpose Star formation allows a Star commander to direct a Star from the rear. It
offers a highly practiced technique for surrounding an enemy while providing maximum
cover from the front to secure a Star commander’s position.
Cockpit Controls
This pre-launch preparation area allows a pilot to customize and configure his ’Mech’s
peripheral control systems to his own specific preferences. The Keshik will supply a recommended configuration (default) for each pilot prior to launch. Refer to Appendix A —Default Control Configuration Systems.
Combat Variables
Difficulty
A MechWarrior’s reliance on a ’Mech’s targeting computer to detect weaknesses in the enemy
affects the difficulty factor of each mission: Easy, Medium, or Hard. If a MechWarrior
requires heavy assistance from the enhanced on-board system (Easy), he will have limited
use of true piloting skills – thereby receiving less honor for the victory. A MechWarrior shall
be revered with greater honor and glory for accepting missions with minimal use of the onboard targeting computer (Hard).
The difficulty of a mission is also greatly impacted by a pilot’s ability to manage his ’Mech’s
heat. A pilot can choose to pilot with a ’Mech’s Heat Tracking system ON or OFF. However,
relying on a ’Mech’s Heat Tracking computer, rather than the manual implementation of this
vital system is dishonorable. A MechWarrior will receive no honor for a mission which is
undertaken without the proper use of its Heat Tracking system.
Audio
MechWarriors can control the audio frequencies to be received while inside the cockpit
before launching into a mission. A slider bar can be utilized to adjust the volume of all
incoming audio, including on-board computer messages.
PRE-LAUNCH PROTOCOL
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PRE-LAUNCH PROTOCOL
Detail
A ’Mech’s Detail control panel allows a MechWarrior to activate unique in-cockpit visual
systems before a mission begins. MechWarriors wishing to increase (PC) system performance should de-activate these Detail functions (toggle to OFF or Low):
Object Textures(ON/OFF)Changes the textured surfaces on all man-made
objects.
Terrain Textures(ON/OFF)Affects the texturing of most natural formations in
the environment.
Display Detail(High/Low)Affects the level of detail of all objects within the
world.
Object Density(High/Low)Sets the density of objects within the world.
Chunky Explosions (ON/OFF)Determines the amount of debris generated when
objects are destroyed.
ResolutionSets the resolution of the display: 320 x 200, 640
x 480, or 1024 x 768. (Some settings may not
work with certain graphics cards.)
Altered Reality
There have been many reports made by MechWarriors claiming the temporary invincibility
of their BattleMechs while on the battlefield. Scientists have described this rare occurrence
of altered reality as a delusional condition caused by a warrior’s deep state of euphoria.
Invulnerability OFF/ON (Dishonorable)
Unlimited Ammo OFF/ON (Dishonorable)
No Collision Damage OFF/ON (Dishonorable)
IMPORTANT: Should a MechWarrior willingly experience an altered state of reality within
his combat experiences, the Keshik will assuredly deny him the right to progress in his
career.
Launch
Upon accepting the conditions of a mission, a MechWarrior and his BattleMech are transported to the pre-determined battle site via dropship along with his starmates. Many times
the dropship will hover on the planet where the engagement is to take place, while other
times a hostile environment will require the dropship to return for a fast pickup once the
mission has ended. All arrangements for dropship pick-up and drop-off are detailed in the
Mission Briefing. A pilot can review this information anytime after LAUNCH by consulting
the Objectives/Briefing Summary.
Debriefing
Each debriefing supplies MechWarriors with an in-depth report of their performance in battle.
Each mission debriefing determines whether the previous engagement was a success or a
failure, listing the mission statistics that communicate either the honorable or dishonorable
feats of battle. Upon succeeding in a mission, the debriefing will describe the positive effects of
completing the mission objectives as well as any universal issues related to a MechWarrior’s
achievements. At this time, a MechWarrior will also receive any advances in Clan rank that
may be merited.
If, however, a MechWarrior has failed a mission, he will be informed of the detrimental effects
of his failure and offered the opportunity to regain his honor by re-attempting to perform the
objectives of the failed mission. A MechWarrior can choose to accept or deny this offer,
although denying will prohibit a MechWarrior’s ability to advance in rank and progress
through his career.
PRE-LAUNCH PROTOCOL
19
Combat Protocol
Basic Piloting
Effective piloting involves the effective usage of basic in-cockpit systems and the careful
analysis of the mission objectives and planetary environment. Mastering the essentials of
piloting a BattleMech is the first step towards rapid career advancement.
Heat Management
Internal heat buildup is one of most severe problems a BattleMech will encounter during
combat. A BattleMech builds up heat whenever it moves or fires its weapons or stands in
an area of intense heat. With heat sinks being its single method of dissipating heat, a
pilot’s overactivity (i.e., over-use of weapons) or outside air temperatures may produce
more heat than a BattleMech can dissipate.
If its internal heat reaches critical heat levels, the ammunition or other systems that it carries
may cause an internal thermal explosion. To avoid such catastrophic damage to vital Clan
COMBAT PROTOCOL
20
technology, BattleMechs are designed to automatically shut down when a ’Mech’s ammo
threshold has exceeded maximum critical levels. This forces a BattleMech to remain inactive until heat is reduced below critical levels. BattleMech pilots are able to manually Over-ride Automatic Shutdowns to get the benefit of their weapons systems and avoid shutdowns during critical situations. This is a strategic maneuver that must be utilized with great
caution. However, a pilot should beware reaching full RED levels on his Heat TrackingIndicator once the automatic shutdown has been overridden. If the Indicator reaches a
full-state of RED, the ’Mech is at risk of having a fatal internal ammo explosion due to
excessive heat levels.
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