How to Build an Assault Mech for Classic Battletech

Assault mechs are titans of the battlefield, god-like in their prowess. It's not possible, some would say, to mess up designing these things--merely throw about armor and weaponry and keep everything that sticks. This is false. There is a finesse to the design, just as with other mechs. Read on to learn how to build an assault mech for classic Battletech.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Get an engine capable of moving your mech. Since 80 to 100 tons is difficult to move, you may have to spend a huge chunk of cash on the engine alone. The gyroscope isn't something to skimp on either. Assault mechs are generally targeted for knockdown attacks.
2. Consider special enhancements, especially those that can affect your battle group. The advantage of all of that armor is that no one is taking you down soon, so ECM and ECCM suites are well worth the investment.
3. Add weapons--lots of weapons. Don't forget to have a light, low-heat weapon for emergencies, but focus on the larger fear-generating, ground-shaking weaponry that can make the average infantryman pee himself.
4. Slap some serious armor on the mech. Not only is the assault mech a massive target, but everyone expects it to take damage, so your "friends" aren't as likely to protect you from damage as they might if you were cruising around in a lesser mech.

Tips & Warnings

• Forget jump jets. It's not happening.
• You aren't likely to need extra heat sinks, but calculate your average heat and think about adding more if it looks like you'll be going over your recovery rate in a reasonable combat (somewhere around 10 rounds).