The Concept

Developer: Microsoft (Flash warning)
Publisher: Microsoft

Death from Above

MechCommander was one of the first games to make successful use of the real-time strategy format without a traditional resource model. Instead of harvesting gold, wood or minerals, the player started off with a given set of units and could expand upon that by salvaging enemy BattleMechs that you destroyed on the field of battle. This focus on preserving your units and salvaging resources resembled Myth or X-Com: Apocalypse with a more tactical style of play, instead of the "mass-produce and overwhelm" school of thought that benefits most of today's RTS games.

However, MechCommander's faults were fairly numerous and cut deep into the gameplay. Two of the key issues were its restrictive user interface and merciless level of difficulty. The publisher, Microprose, never had a chance to make up for its mistakes with a sequel as it was soon absorbed by Hasbro Interactive, and FASA Interactive came into the Microsoft fold. Fortunately, with its popularity among the BattleTech crowd, there was no doubt that we would get a MechCommander sequel to go along with the new MechWarrior games.

Briefing with a psycho

Everything is so easily accessed here

One of the new 'Mechs in the 'Mech selection screen

How does it look so far?

The game takes place on the world of Carver V, a hotly-contested planet that often changes hands among House Steiner, House Davion and House Liao. The situation is not long after Katrina Steiner has split from the Federated Commonwealth along with most of House Steiner, while her brother is engaged in a war against Clan Smoke Jaguar. During the upheaval in the former FedCom, bandits get a hold of Carver V and begin to terrorize it. Since the political situation is extremely delicate, none of the three sides involved can land their own forces for a pacification campaign, so you, a mercenary, are called in to do the job.

MechCommander 2 switches from the trusty 2D sprites of the original to a full-3D view, resulting obviously in better graphics, but also a noticeably smoother interface. With the ability to aim the camera more freely, it has become easier to see around hills, buildings, and more importantly, to see further along the horizon while keeping your own units in view. The interface has undergone other changes as well. Different 'Mechs now stick together at a walking speed, unless ordered to run in which case they will each move at their own individual top speed to a destination.

So purrty up close

Direct hit

Poppa's got a brand new bag