Battletech Mech Tactics: Cyclops

Check out my blog for more articles, podcasts, and tactica: www.wargamerfri...

[@patrickcoyle5469]

Like a lot of other "flavorful" mechs, the Cyclops definitely benefits from the optional Quirks rules compiled in the BattleMech Manual (Battle Computer gives the Cyclops' force a +2 initiative bonus). At least then you can kinda justify its use as a command machine, even without C3 gear. Otherwise, those 90 tons are just for keeping the commander alive by intimidating smaller opponents, not for actual fighting.

[@Dmorris556]

Agree 100%. We started running all quirks all the time. Adds a lot of the flavor in.

[@Actalzy]

With its armor the Cyclops always felt like a heavy that wanted to grow up and be an assault mech. My biggest problem is not really just the thin armor but thin armor for an assault that wants to get close and has all that ammo sitting in it. Makes for to easy of a future crater. Later when you can add like a C3 command to it and make it be what the narrative says it should be I think is when it shines. Good stuff, can't wait to see more of your tactic vids!

[@mr.gunzaku437]

At the first opportunity, I replace the LRM-10 with two LRM-5s, one time of ammo should do for most games. Then the AC-20 is replaced by an LRM-20 and 2-3 tons of ammo depending on the game. Maybe a PPC instead. If CASE is available, of course I take it for both side torsos with the ton I save. DHS if available as well. The remaining 4 tons I put into armor. In 3050-3058, maybe two and put Endo steel in it for the weight savings. If I have room.

[@Gerendiell]

So basically you don't want to play a Cyclops at all.

[@haveswordwilltravel]

I would not complain if I inherited a CP-10-Z (stock) Cyclops. That AC20 can make all the difference in the world and with your run speed of 6 hexes, you can herd those mechs who don’t want to close with you into a more favorable position for you lance to annihilate them. You will draw fire though.

[@xironbeastx8677]

I always use it with an escort of Quasits, everyone is always like WTF, those brave brave militia mechs.

[@mr.gunzaku437]

It's a rare machine that would be a target if the opposing side can get to it. The armor needs help, I give it 2xLRM-5 and five it another ton of armor, especially, all on the torsos. LRM-20 w/3 tons ammo, Maybe 2. Stack long range damage and more HS. Then armor.