Review: MechWarrior Online

MechWarrior Online is a free to play 3D simulation-style multiplayer FPS mech game that captures the feeling of piloting a gigantic BattleMech. Players take control of one of a variety of towering Mechs which weight dozens of tons. Players are able to choose from various mech weight classes, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. For example the heavier the mech, the more weapons and armor it can carry but the slower it moves and turns.

The newest addition to MechWarrior Online™, Solaris 7, features 1 vs 1 and 2 vs 2 Mech Combat across 7 Divisions. Choose your BattleMech wisely, each of the 7 Divisions has a limited roster of BattleMechs available based on the Mech’s performance capabilities on the battlefield. Take a Patron Contract, pick up sponsors, and earn accolades as you climb to the top of the Divisions Leaderboards. Solaris 7 features 5 maps tailored for intense Mech Combat.

Quick Play is where you'll find fast action, fielding a single 'Mech in team-based game modes and maps. Unlike FAction Play, Quick Play matches do not influence the layout of Inner Sphere territories; these battles are fought purely for rewards and glory.

In FAction Play you will field 4 ‘Mechs per match, lending your skills and allegiance to the FAction of your choosing in prolonged team-based engagements, conquering and defending planets in their name to earn rewards and expand your Faction's territory across the Inner Sphere.

MechWarrior Online Gameplay

First set up an account and play through all the tutorials! Not only do you need to do this to learn the game, you also earn a really big in-game currency (C-Bills) payout for every tutorial mission - so it’s doubly worth it.

Once you’ve done all that - and it might take a while, it’s a steep learning curve - you’ll be ready to jump into real action in Quick Play mode. You get a selection of Trial Mechs to choose from, so you can try out a few different types. At the time of writing the best ones to start on are probably the Crab or Warhammer, they are each easy and fun Mechs to pilot.

You will die. A lot. Get used to it, because this game is punishing on newbies. On the positive side, the first time you get a kill you will feel like you just lost your virginity, so it's worth sticking to it.