21 replies to this topic

[Modo44]

For straight up fighting power, you want the Cataphract 3D or a Victor 9S (or Dragon Slayer, but that is a hero mech -- real money cost). However, these require some experience to really shine. The asymmetrical meta builds (various PPC/AC5/Gauss setups) can be unforgiving.

For a simpler playstyle and much more build variety, you want an Orion. It is a great learning mech -- it can boat missiles, go heavy on energy, take good dakka, and it allows for various mixes of all three. Just note that it is strictly weaker than jumping mechs, so it will suffer as your Elo (skill indicator) rises.

[CrispyFriedDuck]

What do you enjoy playing?

Direct fire brawling? Direct fire support? High alpha hit and run? LRM support?

Do you start fights or prefer to end them?

Depending on how you answer these, you'll be guided down a particular path for your first big mech choice. Although you can always try to buy a mech which can fill a few of these roles. Buying 3 of a particular mech really helps out because the Elite skills can drastically change your mech's performance.

The Shadowhawk is a very powerful and versatile. You can spec them out to fill out your particular style. I personally love the 2D2 as a SSRM boat with an AC10 on top. Chain fire your four SSRMs and tap the AC10 when the weak spot presents it self. You might not be able to take down the heaviest of mechs, but trust me, you are quite deadly.