Few points up.
- Ye Lo Wang is a mech, that has been specifically reconstructed for arm-wield AC20. This is a unique variant. It became the first step, that conceptualized the idea of Hero mechs - unique variants with their own hardpoint layout. These are quite rare, thus it is easier to make them up yourself, an give them a personality worth buying for MC. The idea that Hero mechs uses standard layouts doesn't negate the fact, that making all variants openly available is lame. And since Hero mechs are not statistically superior to standard variants, there's little point to complain about it. Three/Four standard variants allows all the freedom of choice you would ever need. For Example, if they manage to add another Hero Mech,
Yorioshi, it will be simply ridiculous to add them as a Standard variant with Energy hp in CT. Hero mechs are outstanding even if they're just made them up. And yes, theres NO standard variants known that are pictured as Hero Mechs in MWO - Wang is a known custom refit, and every other is completely new.
- Dragon is primarily a fire-support mech by the lore and common sense. Stronger Engine cap is given to Dragons, so that they can dictate the range of engagement. They can be used for Brawling, but limited torso twist and slow turning rate makes them very questionable asset. Catapracts are much better suited for melee combat, and even Catapults with their ~280 twist limit and jetpacks makes them viable brawlers, but Dragon is viable there only in theory, while having lowest armor capacity. Arm hardpoints are placed relatively higher, broader to make it easier to fire from cover, CT-mounted missile racks are better for direct-vision firing, and side's weapons there just for self-defence. Different variants just cover a different weapon layouts to play the same purpose.
Edited by DivineEvil, 24 December 2012 - 10:06 AM.