In order to avoid the latter option, I suggest MWO embrace the concept that each Battlemech in our stable has its own Mechwarrior. Allow us to create a stable of characters - our Mechwarriors - who pilot these giant death machines. In order to support this, I'd like to see PGI add the following features:
- Allow each Mechwarrior to be named (and have a faction-specific random name generator)
- Allow each Mechwarrior to gain Rank in their faction/mercenary unit, which could unlock certain consumables.
- Allow Mechwarriors from Clan factions only single names, and add the ability to earn a Bloodname to CW.
- A selection of Mechwarrior portraits, with some faction-specific options.
- Optionally, add a selection of Mechwarrior 3D models, most of whom would be purchasable for MC.
- Mechwarrior-specific skill trees, with 'mech specific options, and mutually exclusive options.
- Allow each Mechwarrior to gain individual Achievements.
- Allow each Mechwarrior to keep a personal History of the worlds they've fought over in Community Warfare.
- Optionally, allow Mechwarriors to select a different faction; so a player could have a House Davion Victor and a Clan Diamond Shark Kit Fox, if they wished.
- Optionally, allow Mechwarriors to 'promote' to a different Battlemech through Community Warfare events (such as being in the force that takes the Earthwerks factory, for example). Their previous 'mech is now assigned to a newly created Mechwarrior ...
-Note that pilot specific skill trees would require the abandonment of the current 'three variants to master' skill system. This system has never fit Mechwarrior lore and can easily be replaced with a variety of better options - and would allow us to get 'single variant' mechs like Enforcers.
-Ranking up and adding skills to each individual pilot would add yet more character to a given Mechwarrior. Colonel Sir John Smith, my Commando -2D pilot, has been around since I started playing and is quite the hotshot mech driver, while Corporal Sam Smith and his fearsome Orion has a more powerful 'mech, but lacks the history of the old Colonel.