3 replies to this topic

[Shredhead]

First off, this is not another whine thread! Please leave ECM as it currently is, I just have some thoughts to share about how to counter ECM appropriately. I tried to factor in possible future equipment like maybe targeting and C3 systems and modules as mentioned by Garth.
The biggest problem people are having is that certain types of weapons, especially LRMs and SSRMs are rendered near useless by ECM. Garth mentioned in NGNG#54 that he wanted people to use LRMs directly without lock, which is simply nigh on impossible on ranges above 300 meters because of the low speed and high angle of the missiles.
SSRMs only work in the tiny space between 180 and 200 meters, which is not possible to keep in an ongoing fight with so many different mechs and speeds.
So I thought about some feasible solutions:
1: Make TAG toggable and silent. Pilots can switch it on or off as to their liking and the constant sound wouldn't drive them insane.
2: Make SSRMs within the 180 meter radius of ECM dumbfire. That way the weapon can be a viable choice again while boating it is still countered.
3: Change LRM trajectory when fired with direct LOS. Back in the days of CB I think you once announced different trajectories for LRMs in direct and indirect firing modes. That would decrease the travel time and people would actually be able to predict their shots. It may be that you have to nerf LRM damage again a bit, because it would be a buff for Artemis equipped LRM boats.

I think these changes would be enough to make people happy again and bring back some lost variety of weapons while future things like targeting and C3 computers shouldn't be effected extensively. As for the modules, I can't say that for sure because I just don't know what you have in mind with them.

[DieNasty]

I would also like to suggest that besides "mech weight" balancing, we also need a "ECM equipped" balancing. I just had a game vs. 2 Atlas, 2 Raven and 1 Commando with ECM on their side. Zero on ours. Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaah ...

In addition, something to consider: BAP could be a bit more effective to counter the ECM effects for the BAP hauling mech; not as powerful as a "personal Counter ECM" module but maybe something along the line of partially ignoring ECM effects for mechs that are merely covered, yet have no own ECM installed.

It still does not counter ECM god mode, but at least gives you *some* way to not instantly get blown to shreds by 7 stalkers hiding behind a Commando with ECM

[JTAlweezy]

Orrrrr, inplement a module that allows the Streak to enter dumbfire mode when your mech is ECM'd. This way the pilot will have to decide if they want to use the mod or not. Make them take chances on how their mechs performance is weighed in battle. Dont provide a blanket fix, or everyone will do it, and then the ECM loses its effectiveness chance in a battle, this way pilots will have to choose engagements wisely.

[Chou Senwan]

I can deal with ECM now, but it does seem like the most efficient use of 1.5 tons ever. If I were in charge, I'd do this:

ECM shields the mech carrying it, as it does now. No radar locks without TAG, except in a narrow range band.

ECM can also shut down the ability of one mech to target. Whichever enemy the ECM-bearer is targeting has its own targeting nullified, as long as it's within 180 meters of the ECM-bearer.

You can also counter-ECM if you want, but you have to target the ECM-bearing enemy in order to jam their ECM.



And that's it.