6 replies to this topic

[Ken Fury]

I just wrote some random words on how to build a good Cicada and some of the thoughts I have on the whys and whynots. Concering engine size and possible weapon loadouts.

Click me for a good X-5 build

Quote

Cicada Build Rule #1: If your loadout can be fit on a Commando, it’s not a good build for a Cicada.

[Hayashi]

Generally well written.

Personally I'd go for 2 medium pulses in the arms for anti-fast mech duty and 2 mediums in the torsos, then one DHS per side torso. Also, rather than 1 ton, 2 tons of Streak ammo is a bit more advisable for longer confrontations.

Lastly, you might want to take out Adv. Sensor Range in favour of Adv. Seismic Sensor. That module is pretty much a must-have for any light mech at the moment.

The engine weight-tonnage advantage scale is very important. A lot of pilots don't know that and end up gimping their Cicadas' firepower, making it simply a much worse version of the JR7-D.

Edited by Hayashi, 26 May 2013 - 02:03 AM.

[Darwins Dog]

Very well written, and I almost agree with all of it. The one point where I would argue is in the use of SRM6s. Although they fire in volleys, that actually makes them more accurate. With a little bit or practice it's actually pretty easy to hit with the entire salvo.

That being said, I usually run streaks in my X-5 because now the BAP levels the playing field.

[Dawnstealer]

I'm trying to level up my CDAs and recently took up a 3M. After a few rounds, I think this will be the one I keep out of the three. While my 2A is a blast and my 3C is worthless, the 3M seems to be a great blend of support, firepower, and speed.

I regularly chase down and leg Spiders and Jenners (or harass them off the bigs), can contribute to a brawl (for a bit, at least), and with the ECM, TAG, and BAP can really help out on the battlefield.

I haven't been able to make my 3C worthwhile, as my first mech (sigh). I went on to pilot a nest of Stalkers and fell in love with that mech before finally deciding to go back and level up my CDA. Trying CDAs other than the 3C has been a blast.

For the 2A, I went with 6ML and put them in two groups of 3. A lot of fun, a lot of punch. Not quite as fast as the true scouts, but fast enough to chase them off. Fully-armored, which, if you're running a CDA, ALWAYS go with full armor or you should just buy a Spider, Raven, or Jenner and call it good.

For the 3M, I run 2 MPLs and 1 ML, TAG, BAP, and ECM, along with the stock 320XL engine and full armor. Not nearly as much punch, but is a truly great support mech. And for those who don't care about TAG, pull it and throw in another ML.

[King Arthur IV]

4 medium pulse with semi-fast engine and as many heat sink as you can, btw endo+ff is a must. this will destroy any part you want to destroy.

pros - pinpoint, fast dps.
cons - short range can hurt you and your team if noone engages first.

[Shalune]

I don't go out of my way looking for them, but this is the first intelligent post I've seen about building Cicadas. The realities of your Commando rule, and Jenner chart are ignored waaayyy too often by Cicada fans.

<3

[Racklesnack]

I suggest this if you are having an issue with your cicada 3C
http://mwo.smurfy-net.de/mechlab#i=39&l=2452ae177c6596c162ebe7583e3754f7e47a2f3f