BATTLETECH: The Griffin

The #Griffin is one of the #unseen in #Battletech, and it's great to see its #reseen form. A popular #Battlemech with an interesting design and purpose, it's been around for a while, fighting under the #StarLeague and the rest of the #InnerSphere, but mostly for the #FreeWorldsLeague and #LyranCommonwealth.
All the same, this #SuccessionWar veteran needs to be covered, so that's what we're doing. So, let's all check out, the #Griffin.
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Note: I am not associated with the Battletech / Mechwarrior IP, and create this under fair-use. Ownership of the Battletech IP resides with several companies at this time. I support all official releases.

[@oliverlacota3112]

Little-known lore fact, out of the good of his heart Peter Steiner-Davion would purchase one of these for each his siblings because he was such a family guy.

[@Demolitiondude]

griffin designer: sniping is a good job mate. excellent work. outdoors. you'll never go hungry. as long as there's two people left in the Sphere. somebody is going to want someone dead.

[@BigRed40TECH]

"Not a crazed gunman dad, I'm an assassin... Well the difference being one is a job and the other is mental sickness!"

[@theomnissiah-9120]

@@BigRed40TECH and also a really shit mech

[@Dracobyte]

​@@BigRed40TECH Proffesional have standards!

[@corran100]

For anyone who doesn't know the reference: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b3-9daqQl953q9U

[@cluelesscoffee4236]

@@corran100if anyone doesn’t get it fuk em

[@WastelandWanderer1216]

A medium mech so reliable and loved that a pair of Griffins are stationed in the Throne Room of House Steiner's palace on Tharkad.

[@joaomonteiro5538]

Always thought a mech with no dedicated anti-infantry weapons to be an odd choice to guard a throne room.

[@scytheseven9173]

​​​@@joaomonteiro5538look they're Steiners, they're right to love the Griffin but nobody ever said they were smart. Edit: actually it's a custom variant: "GRF-1RG A Succession War era skirmisher built to protect the Archon's throne room, the 1RG drops the PPC and LRM rack for a large and medium laser in its right arm, supported by a medium and small laser and machine gun in each side torso, each with its own half ton of ammo. Additionally the armor on the center torso and arms has been reinforced by half a ton. This loadout is made possible by the removal of the signature jump jets."

[@erikbjelke4411]

@@joaomonteiro5538 I always took it that the Griffins were ceremonial, like really expensive artwork, not part of the security system.

[@PeachDragon_]

​@@joaomonteiro5538 it's not great in general to have a sniper mech in an enclosed throne room. I would've chosen two wolverines.

[@cnkclark]

Piloted a stock Griffin in a Mechwarrior tabletop RPG campaign that featured my favorite lance composition ever: Griffin Dervish Phoenix Hawk Wolverine 6M variant with the Large Laser We were all 5/8/5 minimum with a combination of mobility, armor, and firepower that made us a threat to anything lighter or heavier - enough speed and combined weaponry to hunt down faster mechs or harrass and evade slower mechs. Dervish and I would hang back and snipe while the Wolverine brawled and the Phoenix Hawk danced in and out. If they tried to focus the snipers the close fighters pounced, if they tried to stand and brawl they got sniped. The greatest threat to us would be a rival composition. It was incredibly fun.

[@rdrrr]

The WVR-6M is seriously underrated. It's so damn tough; near-maxed armour allocated efficiently. That's a rarity in 3025. One of the best mediums of its era hands-down.

[@cnkclark]

@@rdrrr It's become my favorite medium mech for that reason. It just does everything well.

[@yecnay25]

The good ole shoot’n scoot. Fire and move, fire and move.

[@eddapultstab2078]

If you use the cover correctly, it's damn near untouchable.

[@pmcollectorboy2929]

One of the few mechs where Steiner wasn't all "Guns guns and more guns!"

[@thestabbybrit4798]

Whenever I face a Griffin they always feel like they have a lot more armour than they should. Especially in 3025.

[@cavalryscout9519]

It's because they are pretty evasive for a mech with that much armor, especially in 3025 when gunnery skills are poorer and there are no weapons with hit bonuses. If played well, it's as hard to hit as a Phoenix Hawk or Stinger.

[@BigRed40TECH]

It's very hard to pin them down and land shots. It can be a frustrating experience to stop them.

[@eddapultstab2078]

It's because the griffins design forces the player to fight smarter not harder. Because you can't face roll the weapons all the time and you have to manage heat one has to be smart with positioning and weapons use. You only have 12 volleys of lrm ammo so you need to make them count.

[@mattikuokkanen]

I don't think Griffin has any more armor than Wolverine or base model Shadow Hawk.

[@DIEGhostfish]

@@cavalryscout9519 And the wolverine is even tankier at the same speed but shorter ranged.

[@SeedemFeedemRobots]

the Griffin is the B-52 bomber of battletech, a cockpit that looks like a bomber, old as hell and gets modernized because it refuses to retire

[@Gigas0101]

In Mechwarrior 5, I love swapping the LRM for an SRM, making the Griffin into an upscaled Panther. Never used one on the tabletop but I can imagine the satisfying balancing act of keeping enemies in your range brackets and you out of theirs.

[@eddapultstab2078]

There is a starleague variant that packs two srm pods, that version slaps if you use it right on the battletech pc mission it's featured in.

[@LORDOFDORKNESS42]

@@eddapultstab2078 That's basically always how I run a 'Royal Griffin' in the PC game. Two SRM or Inferno pods, and the nastiest snub-nose PPC I can find in the arm. Any left over weight after maxing armor is put directly into more heat sinking. It's a beast that way. Can brawl toe to toe with even Assaults, as long as the pilot's good.

[@user-dt1lw1wj4f]

@@eddapultstab2078 2n one love.

[@NeroLordofChaos]

@@LORDOFDORKNESS42 Brawler Griffin is unreasonably good at getting behind enemies and dumping a shitton of armament into the juicy back armor in HBS Battletech. About the only way it gets better is if you get a load of double heatsinks and start trolling.

[@LORDOFDORKNESS42]

@@NeroLordofChaos Yeah. Heck, loaded one down with Infernos and Flamers once. Think I had like... two medium lasers for actual ranged damage? Still one of like, two times I've seen an enemy mech meltdown and explode in vanilla Harebrained Battletech. So definitely worth it for the lols factor!

[@erikskole7669]

This and the shadow hawk were my friends favorite mechs. Used to wax my junk a lot no matter the mechs I brought. Guess he had better dice. Or more likely he was just better than I was with strategy. I'll just believe he had better dice. 😶

[@starsiegeplayer]

😆

[@GhostOfBuscemi]

Damn clan dice 🤣

[@williamgoyette517]

The designs for both were also taken (originally) right from dougram

[@Rhysazos]

It's a solid design, but the one gripe I have about the 1N is its weapon placement. Destroying the RT would not only take out the LRM but would also disable the arm where the PPC is mounted, effectively disarming the 'Mech completely.

[@TronTuborg]

But it does give you several metres of ablative armour, if your positioning is any good

[@tennoskoom2233]

I don't know about this one.. almost the same could be said about the AC Centurion, but that's why you have the shield arm

[@NeroLordofChaos]

@@tennoskoom2233 at least with most variations of the centurion, you have those 2 medium lasers in the center torso. Even if both side torsos get obliterated, you still have SOME offensive capability outside of literally just trying to kick another mech to death.

[@t-wolf8502]

It makes them really fun to fight.

[@depth386]

This is the superior configuration in Battletech(2018 PC) because you can basically use an entire one half of the mech as a punching bag while staying at long range with as much evasion as practicable.

[@blue95kun]

The Griffin is very much one mech I always must have when running a medium lance. And very much one of the Holy Trinity of the 55 Ton Triangle.

[@Dracobyte]

Which are the other two?

[@blue95kun]

@@Dracobyte Wolverine and Shadow Hawk.

[@dallassukerkin6878]

I always thought that should be a 55T Square with the Hunchback as the 4th corner :). But it was too slow and not 55T, so I made a Shadow Hawk variant called the Mannequin that carried an AC20 and ran it in a lance with the 1N griffin, 2H Shadow Hawk and 6R Wolverine. I can tell you that nothing gets you focussed fired quicker than being a 5/8 Mech with an AC20 :lol:

[@Exarach]

I love facing these in MW5. I know that a quick blast to the arm is going to drop the enemy squad by a mech.

[@rdrrr]

I love Mechs that put all their eggs in one basket. Very fun to fight. The Hunchback is kinda similar, except it's a lot harder to smash one of its side torsos than rip off the Griffin's right arm. TTRulez_AI makes enemy pilots a lot better at torso-twisting, which makes enemy Griffins a bit trickier to disarm.

[@AccessAccess]

The Griffin and the Hunchback were my two favorite medium mechs in the original battletech. Might not have been the best use of tonnage but as far as mobility, protection, and long range punch, the Griffin had it all. We only played campaigns so a mech like the Griffin was valued over a trebuchet, shadow hawk, whitworth, or vindicator for these reasons. Heavy armor may not be a necessity with fire support, but once you got an experienced mechwarrior you wanted to put him in something where he was protected.

[@level98bearhuntingarmor]

Technically the first mech I ever played in the tabletop (starter box, technically lost because i lost the PPC arm and LRM 10 ran dry, but the opponent Wolverine had a CT with around 2 hit points to spare) a design and role I respect (also I like the creature Griffins)

[@passgo8507]

My first and favorite mech on the table top. I love it so very very very much. It’s simple, it has a clear and defined role, and it does it incredibly well. In MW5, this is the mech that took me from difficulty 1-3 missions only to career mode. I will die on this hill, this is not only one of the best medium mechs, but one of the best mechs overall. Seal of approval.

[@mattikuokkanen]

Base production model GRF-1N can stand & deliver with both weapons pretty well. It can also jump 5 hexes every turn while alternating fire between its weapons till ammo run dry. Jump 5 hexes, fire PPC, jump 5 hexes, fire LRM, repeat. When accompanying heavy 'Mechs, Griffin can perform reconnaissance and spot for indirect LRM/artillery fire.

[@xlyg343]

Phoenix Dawn. Mechwarrior 2 Mercenaries. Pure gold.

[@Dirt1061]

This looks like it has one of the best cockpits, great visibility. Reminds me of the evolution of WWII fighter plane cockpits, from being sleek to a bubble.

[@noteansylvan6051]

A respectable mech. Decent armament and mobile enough to put nearly anywhere. Only significant downside is most of the firepower is in the ppc so you really need to watch that arm. I tend to use the vindicator more often since it's ten tons lighter and serves a very similar purpose.

[@DIEGhostfish]

And has its weapons more spread out. But is slower.

[@Dokdiamant]

If we are at the Theme Sniper Mechs, I must say I can't wait that finally someone makes a Vid about the Hollander, it's upgraded Versions and the II-C Version. ^^

[@BigRed40TECH]

I love the Hollander.

[@eddapultstab2078]

Oh oh, the Hussar both normal and starleague versions. I pitted my players in a campaign with a pair of standard and the advanced ones with ecm among other units, long story and consecutive battles, against their heavier mech Lance and where a pain in the butt because of their speed and goodies their equipped with. The low tech version has as much armor as a snowmobile but it still had that 9/14 insane movement rate.

[@sim.frischh9781]

Griffin is one of the best looking mechs in the TRO3025, Duane Loose really did a good job there, yet the current artwork by Anthony Scrogging "Shimmering Sword" still is significantly better. Chris Lewis´ Project Phoenix TRO version is also great, though my personal favorite is the Primitive from Justin Nelson

[@leosign225]

Griffin Custom Engine: 330 XL Endo steel Standard armor: 10 tons + case Cruising speed: 6 Flank speed: 9 Jumping: 6 Heat sinks: 12 DHS Weapons: ER PPC LRM 15 + Artemis IV FCS 3 tons ammo (24 rounds) Flamer Created as an evolution of the original, this Griffin maximizes the speed over hitting over found in the original. Devoid of close quarters weapons stocks the unit is made to fire, maneuver and fire again. The mobility keeping it away from all but the fastest mediums and almost all heavy mechs. The flamer was added as an afterthought to provide some limited anti infantry capability as well as to set fire to its surroundings as cover for a quick escape. The XL engine is required for the additional speed and is offset by the thick armor as well as the knowledge that if you're getting close enough for medium weapons to be brought online you're really REALLY using this mech wrong. It isnt made for stand and deliver style of play. It snipes, moves, snipes again and uses the range between it and its enemies as its primary defense.

[@user-cp4ku4gs7q]

My first and favorite mech

[@treevenewson]

Number 2 of the Classic 55 ton 3025 Trio.

[@darkhorse13golfgaming]

This was my very first Mech when I started playing many moons ago. Still a favorite.

[@ogrehaslayers605]

Usually my first pick mech back in the day. Hopping around blasting things at range was a hoot!

[@reighniz4488]

For the first time I have nothing to add. Perfect.

[@BigRed40TECH]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/mIW7aneog8qmlc0&ab_channel=musicaudios

[@WaltMartin]

One of my Favorite Old School Mechs, but I am currently running in 3152-3155, So I tend to upgrade to higher tech. It can be devastating. Great video, excellent work Red.

[@BigRed40TECH]

Thanks Ghozt!

[@WolfHreda]

The GRF-3M is nasty. Take everything you love about the original, and make it better. Delightful.

[@BigRed40TECH]

100%

[@WolfHreda]

@@BigRed40TECH also, as much as people joke about the Atlas and the Banshee, the Griffin will always be the signature 'mech of the Lyran Commonwealth. That's why two of them flank the Archon's throne on Tharkad.

[@TroySeward]

Always liked this mech.

[@watchandlearn43]

As always, quick and in-depth coverage. You are a machine dude!

[@BigRed40TECH]

I'm almost done the Shadowhawk Script even. lol

[@ThatJerseyBloke]

One of my favorite mechs. :D

[@inquisitorbenediktanders3142]

Vindicator, but faster. Nice.

[@Dracobyte]

Peter "Chicken-killer" Griffin: Hey Lois, remember when I crit another mech's head with my LRM? That was awesome! Hehehhehehe"

[@Ephigy17]

Wooo! My fave, been waiting for this one.

[@BigRed40TECH]

Griffin's a good choice to like.

[@squirrellordsgaming2772]

Griffin designer. “I love pop tarts.” Uziel designer, years later “so do I! watch me do it better.”

[@stormcrow28]

The Griffin is one of the best all around fire support mechs built. It combines excellent firepower, mobility and armor into a hard to match package. The Griffin is one my go tos for any Marik unit, with the exception of the 5M with the Light Gauss and LRM 10 rack because it's massively oversunk and could use better short range firepower. The 3M is one of the best varaints out there. I'll use pairs of 3Ms and 2Ns together for skirmisher lances during the Jihad and later, and they complement each other well.

[@faithmcclosky4528]

Great video as ever, Red. I always had trouble fielding the Griffin. It's lack of short range firepower is just too big of a hinderance, coupled with it's mediocre heat dissipation ability. The -1S solves this somewhat, but of course cripples it's long range ability, so the tradeoff is questionable.

[@PopeMetallicus]

I love using one of these, a Shadow Hawk, a Dervish, and a Phoenix Hawk as s medium cavalry lance.

[@rdrrr]

I'd hate to fight that. A mean combination of mobility and firepower at multiple ranges.

[@PopeMetallicus]

@@rdrrr It's certainly served me well over the years, even when Ive lost with that lance I've done some serious damage to my opponent.

[@beskar66]

So much for going to 😴 well what better than a great vid to keep you up 😅😄

[@BigRed40TECH]

Hope you enjoyed it!

[@jollyjohnthepirate3168]

First part of the trio. 55 ton siblings. Griffin, Shadow Hawk and Wolverine. Doesn't House Steiner sit on a throne under a pair of Griffins?

[@afitz34]

A favorite of mine. Especially when playing my 24th Lyran Guards.

[@ambientlight3876]

Of the three classic mediums, the Griffin was my favorite.

[@johnbrennan8611]

I use the Griffin almost exclusively as a sniper. In MW I'll bring Centurion's, Enforcer's & Wolverine's to send in as I'm using my jump jets to get to an advantageous position & while the enemy mechs are aggroing my lance mates I'll start picking em off at range. Great vid Bear 👍

[@liquidgoose9730]

Griffin is my favorite mech in the MW games.

[@canderoussnurd4265]

My second favorite medium next to the shadow hawk. The minuteman of mechs.

[@Spartaner251]

best mech to put on roof tops in city fighting.

[@BigRed40TECH]

Is that because its expendable? XD

[@joshuamidgette4846]

The Griffin needs 2 front mounted medium lasers.

[@DIEGhostfish]

There's the version that downgrades the PPC to a large laser and the LRM to a 5 and fits 2 medlas and some heatsinks

[@OptimusJedi]

Such a cool looking Mech too.

[@Comicsluvr]

My friend and I love pairing Griffins on the battlefield. He's the sniper with the PPC and the LRM where I use a modified version with the Large Laser, an SRM, and a couple of Medium Lasers. I keep enemies off of him and fire my LL as backup while he lays down hurt at range.

[@enricopaolocoronado2511]

7:34 Nice little flop from the Quickdraw there.

[@BigRed40TECH]

He's just bouncing around.

[@TheStraycat74]

GRF-5A Full Clan Tech 3050 Rebuild Griffin, 5/8/5 55 tons, endo-steel, XL and DHS, 9.5 tons of Fero-Fiberous (182 armor points), and 26.5 tons of pod space Prime config: twin ERPPC's R/LA, twin LRM-10's with a ton ammo each R/LT, ERSL in the H, and 5 extra DHS doubles down on the classic version of ppc/lrm griffin while removing the range and heat limitations. ALT-config: twin Large Pulse Lasers R/LA, Streak SRM-4's with a ton of ammo each R/LT, three ERSL R/LT/H and 5 DHS. more up-close and personal.

[@vali6717]

My ideal Griffin would be more of a marksman than a sniper. Swap the PPC for a large laser, mount a medium laser to the left arm, and add another heat sink to take care of that extra heat generation. It loses some of the punch of being a dedicated sniper but it can perform better in case it gets chased down.

[@thelordofcringe]

My ride or die mech. The firepower and speed combo that still has survivability feels almost unique, until you get to something with even more firepower but a higher tonnage like the madcat.

[@ChaosTicket]

The Griffin is just solid and that makes it another mech I love. It doesnt have maxed out armor, but its a medium-long range and mobile fire support unit. Even in 3025 the GRF-1N is "just right", not too fast or too slow. Its existence makes some units, like the Panther and Valkyrie essentially obsolete. Upgrading it is so simple and its variants are also solid. The GRF-2N is the Royal Griffin and its different from the original model. It upgrades to Double Heat Sinks and an ER PPC, but does not have an long range missile launcher of any kind. Instead is has Short Range Missile tubes, 12 to be precise. The GRF-3M uses an Extralight Engine to upgrade to an Extended Range PPC and LRM-20 "Doombud". That weapon name alone is awesome. The GRF-6S2 is a mixed-technology variant. It has Clan-grade LRM-15, as well as Inner Sphere grade ER PPC, ER Medium Laser, C3 Boosted Slave, and a Targeting Computer. It can run hot even with Double Heat Sinks, but it can function as a Sniper and its top-of-the-line missile-launcher is effective at all ranges. Some of the variants have improved speed or Improved Jump Jets, in some case being capable of jumping 270 meteres(or 9 hexes on the table). The clan-redesigned Griffin IIC at 40tons is 15 tons lighter but its optimized for what the Griffin was originally designed for, mobile fire support. Its wasted nothing. Its unfortunate that nobody thought to combine the ideas to make something like a Griffin C2 with 12 tons of armor, an C-Extended Range Large Laser, 30 clan-grade LRMs, 6/9/6 movement speed.

[@malusignatius]

One of my favourite mediums. Mobile, long ranged and well armoured, it's an excellent support 'mech and harasser.

[@Griffen55]

A favorite of mine for obvious reasons.😎

[@Maladjester]

I'm being that guy again. "Can't be understated" means a thing is so small or minimal that words can't describe it. What you mean to say is "cannot be OVERstated."

[@steveharrison76]

A mobile sniper with pseudo-artillery backup from a decently sized LRM system is something I love. I guess my only gripe would be that the weaponry is concentrated in a very small area. If I were designing it, I would see if I could find a way to place the launcher and the concomitant feeds, ammo areas and servos, on the other shoulder/arm. Because with this bad boy, all it takes is a single crit (to the right torso) to pretty much reduce it to a target practice dummy. (Maybe not the 1S, but even that model still been hobbled.) My sweet Lord though I absolutely love the way it looks, aesthetically. Great mech, albeit with an Achilles heel. That cockpit gives it a vibe around the heavy bombers of the Second World War, or the light helicopters of the sixties and seventies. Goddamnit it’s a good looking stompy lad. Not in my top five mechs, but I’ll admit, only by a gnat’s wing.

[@eddapultstab2078]

That's the fun thing about battletech, you can tool up your mech your way. Just make a custom design where you moved the launcher on the other torso.

[@steveharrison76]

@@eddapultstab2078 true. I suppose I was talking more about the In-Universe design of the thing. Seems weird that a mech design team would build it with all its eggs in one, admittedly moderately well-armoured, basket.

[@DIEGhostfish]

The large laser one mounts the LRM on the opposite shoulder.

[@imasspeons]

It's true that destroying the RT removes all weapons, though that also allows you to use positioning and twist to soak hits you take with the left arm and torso.

[@eddapultstab2078]

@@steveharrison76 another note, atleast, lorewise, the neurohelmet gives the user a physical connection to the machine making it part of their body. The designers may have thought that since a majority of people are right handed, that setup might be easier to use and train on. I know I'm shoe horning a little but not everything has to translate directly into net benefit in game.

[@gabrieliacoboni6951]

I want a big beepin gun lol

[@peterhessedal8539]

This is my fav of the 55 trio. I love that its stock with the PPC. I am not a fan of the LRM10 (often swapping for 2 5s).

[@sardaukerlegion]

Not sure about this one. Dervish does same dmg at long range, but has some short range weapons when needed.

[@BigRed40TECH]

Doesn't perform the same role as the Dervish, and its less ammunition dependent. :)

[@lukedudley5030]

Great overview :-) nice long range sniper mech with great maneuverability and armour :-) can be hard countered by a couple of speedy lights that can exploit its minimum ranges but that doesn't take away how useful this cheap armoured beast is :-) a decent place to spend your c bills to be fair :-)

[@adventwolfbane]

Simple upgrade potential none of the houses used. Swap to DHS and ER PPC. Add Artemis IV to the LRM-10 and add CASE to the ammo. Leave the Engine standard, use endo steel, and up the amount of armor to 10.5 and you have a deadly, simple, and "cheap" design ready to go.

[@mbr5742]

GRF-1S is a good bodyguard for LRM mechs or PPC only units. Medium to short range firepower and good hat capacity.

[@enderz7593]

If it carry’s PPC(s) I already like it. Even when I’m bad with it, I still like it.

[@Hammerheadcruiser]

Love the griffin, great mech. Though I admit the base model with only 2 weapons is a tad lackluster

[@SexyMonsterLover]

Me putting 3 m.lasers and 10 srm's in someone's back: I'm sorry it's what kind of mech?

[@NonApplicable1983]

I don't care what anyone says, I love this thing. Would it be better if each weapon was on either side torso? Yes. Is it still a well-armed, mobile and reasonably durable 'mech for the price? Very much so.

[@penis0100]

The Griffon is a sniper for sure. Perhaps a laser should have been installed in case of it finds itself in close combat? The Shadow Hawk also plays the same role as the Griffin. In your opinion, long rage joust: Shadow Hawk vs Griffin? Keep cranking out good stuff…

[@BigRed40TECH]

Shadowhawk wins if it just tries to close with the GRF. If its a ranged battle? The SHD goes down like a clown.

[@CMDR-V-UncleJ]

always have a griffin sauce in my lance.. but never thot of it as a sniper.... just always handed to a AI... hmm

[@NemFX]

Drop the LRMs for either SRMs or machine guns. Might solve two issues at once. Normally I'd suggest medium lasers, but heat is a bigger issue for it.

[@alfo149]

Haven't used the Griffin all too often in MW5. I prefer to use the -AL variant of the Centurion. I lack the creativity/dexterity of jumpjets on console.

[@BigRed40TECH]

I too prefer the CN9

[@randomnetsurfer]

I think you meant at 6:03 "can't be overstated"?

[@BigRed40TECH]

Yep, my bad. XD

[@mr6johnclark]

Griffin... Not a bad piece of hardware in MWO they got better with the 3060 update with the adevent of Light PPCS and LFE engines. More survivability. I have 3 of these.

[@Max-oi4kj]

Один из любимых средних мехов, очень хорош, не зря эти машины стоят у трона Лиры.

[@BigRed40TECH]

I think it is a good machine, definitely. But it does need to be careful to keep in its lane, or it can become a fish out of water.

[@sea_triscuit7980]

I see the griffin as the hunchback's more beautiful half sister haha 😂

[@kazekamiha]

A very solid Medium Mech. My only issue is that in it's default set up all the weapons are on one side. In the HBS game if you can take the right torso out you've nuetered it. Best kept at range, I find but it's well equipped for that.

[@Marveryn]

my only issue with the basic griff, is yout ake out the right torso and its weaponless. It work on game like MWO cause you can always put your side none weapon side torso as a shield before you fire but it doesnt keep me from worrying that one bad hit and you are weaponless underwise its a great design

[@BigRed40TECH]

Common flaw on a lot of mechs tbh.

[@connorriggs1518]

Still prefer the Wolverine even if t isn’t lang range support

[@tenchraven]

Fast fire support, getting inside the minimum ranges of it's weapons are harder than it looks. Bug hunter- sure, you can run, but that means putting the tissue paper armour towards the guns. The lack of ability to engage at range of scent is what makes it not a trooper like the Wolverine or Shadow Hawk. Yes, the - -1S tries, it's glitchy next to the - -1N. The upgrades are meh: ER PPC and DHS good, the XL engine is too fragile. The only excuse would be to raise the engine to a 330. The Griffin is the best wingmech in the game- patnered with a trooper, solid support. Leading recon mechs, great scout master. And massed, pretty decent cavalry, particularly supporting assaults.

[@iller3]

Was looking for BushWacker, and this came up instead. ...same concept I guess? (though in some instances, the bushy can fit a whole Gauss instead of just an ER energy weap )

[@BigRed40TECH]

The Bushwacker's a great mech... but it's really unrelated to the Griffin, lol

[@ibysdagon4659]

Not gonna lie first griffin I used was in mwo and I hated it. Well until I put 2 LRM 20s in it and 4 TAGs. Meta is nice but silly is good for the soul.

[@dashiellgillingham4579]

Nothing I’ve heard here reflects my experiences whenever I’ve encountered this thing. It consistently explodes on the second hit from my locusts or when their support comes down, it has never destroyed one of my medium mechs or above on tabletop or the 2018 video game, and it cannot reposition fast enough to evade me unless it is jumping among cliffs above me. I don’t fight from below cliffs if it is at all possible. I would never describe something with its range as a sniper. Snipers like the rifleman engage from outside return-fire range. The griffin does not. It’s only hope is to get out of the way before everything pivots and removes it’s entire upper torso like buzz lightyear in the opening of toy story 2.

[@BigRed40TECH]

Really? On the tabletop I've used it to be a mega-harasser, or have been mega-harassed by it. Two very different experiences I suppose. HBS Battletech is fun, but some tactics just don't work as well tbh.

[@Ratkill9000]

My main issue with the Griffin is, the arms are just too soft. Couple good hits and that PPC is done. So I'll only field one if the enemy resistance is low. At least in MW5.

[@metalmanherpaderp1824]

To be fair, mw5 heavily favors brawlers or LRM boats by far

[@Funkin_Disher]

The fatal flaw I feel the GRF has is that it doesn't balance its weapons between its sides. Dead-siding is far more useful for brawlers than snipers and fire support, and a solid hit in the wrong spot could take out both of the mech's weapons.

[@jonbezeau3124]

I think there's a case to be made for showing your unarmed side to an enemy light or if a brawler gets in on you, one of your lancemates can deal with that while you continue firing on enemies at optimal range.

[@FrostyThundertrod]

When ever I get a griffin I find it hard to fit it into my lance

[@RidinDirtyRollinBurnouts]

Mw5, CGL's Battletech, or Table Top? I only have experience with the first one but I share your predicament, it's a great mech for the time period but it very easily gets outclassed later on, just not versatile enough with weapons imo

[@tony-leebrizzell2654]

By a long way my favorite 3025 ca

[@eddapultstab2078]

I consider the griffin, shadow hawk, and Wolverine the most medium mechs of the medium mechs. The Phoenix hawk is next up as I consider it the worst mech under estimate.

[@wonkyorc9403]

makes me sad that in mwo the griffin doesn't play anywhere near the way it should do

[@BigRed40TECH]

The video games and tabletop just don't line up typically, at least when it comes to Mechwarrior. Not the fault of the devs, just the way it is.

[@rdrrr]

The GRF-1S is a fine variant but to me a Griffin without a PPC just ain't a Griffin. My usual MW5 builds use an ER PPC and LRM with Artemis or a Snub PPC and massed Streak SRM packs, plus a punchy fist in the weaponless arm.

[@yoloman3607]

I never really liked speed focused 55 tonners, if you want more speed just get a smaller mech don‘t up-engine larger mech. For all it’s speed this thing struggles within minimum range and is somewhat unreliable for screening against infantry or light mechs. The Vindicator does basically the same thing in 3025 but for cheaper and more heat efficient, it jumps, it has the armor, has the same striking power at mid range with the medium laser making up for the smaller LRM pack, and has a small laser for infantry. Edit: On the flip side I have to add it has one of the best lostech refit models available, it actually gets both double HS and the ER PPC, something most lostech refits lack often gaining only the ER PPC which then becomes virtually unusable like on the panther lostech refit. Big LRM 20 is scary even without Artemis FC and the small laser is a much needed addition against infantry and now BA.

[@JMcMillen]

The Griffin wasn't meant to be used as a screening mech. It's primarily fire support. If you want a similar mech to screen with, try a Wolverine.

[@yoloman3607]

@@JMcMillen You hear medium mech. You hear fast. You hear armored. You would naturally expect it to be a good choice to react against small fast light mechs in 3025, but it just spends to much weight trying to move its 55 ton bulk. The fact that it can’t reliably deter mechs half its weight is a big failure even if it can harass heavier machines with near impunity, given that for all its speedy skirmishing reputation it’s only relative to line mechs, it can’t outrun light mechs. You need another medium or heavier light mech to screen it as if it was a heavy mech with only a 20 damage alpha strike. Blegh. At least the Shadowhawk despite its grab bag weapon’s loudout isn’t at risk of being rushed by the lowest BV mech on the table.

[@JMcMillen]

@@yoloman3607 In my experience, a light mech isn't going to rush anything with a PPC, unless it's got a partner so that one of them can try to get behind it. And if you get too close, it's two fists can do more damage than that PPC can. Especially because the Griffin has plenty of armor to take quite a few hits from the weapons found on most light mechs (especially 3025 mechs). The only thing lighter than it that ever made me sweat was a Hunchback and I made sure to keep my distance from him as much as possible. Of course, we also made sure to use enough map boards so there was always plenty of room to move around so you didn't have everyone on top of each other all the time (2x2, 2x3, or even 3x3). But just look at everyone else's comments here. Most people love this mech and it works well when used properly. Obviously, you don't do that. And don't compare it to a Shadow Hawk with its pop-gun weaponry. The mech you seem to want is the Wolverine. An AC-5 as you advance then the SRM-6 & Medium Laser when in close PLUS you can fire them and use both arms to punch people if you're close enough. Of the three, in their base model, the Wolverine has the highest potential (22) and average (18) damage. In some respects, it's the best of the three overall.

[@yoloman3607]

@@JMcMillen I don’t use Griffins much, but given its popularity I kill a whole ton of them. Everything is in its right side, so I quite frankly want enemies to change face and walk forward to punch my light mech when I run in close on their left side. Either their PPC or their LRM10 go boom to other mechs if they turn to punch since it can’t keep up its evasion, making the relatively sturdy armor redundant. When people buy a Griffin, I buy a Thunderbolt for the same BV. It just isn’t all it’s cracked up to be compared to the competition.

[@JMcMillen]

@@yoloman3607 Couldn't do that in our games as we played before BV was a thing. Later, we quickly recognized how bad BV1 was so didn't use it and made us not even bother with BV2. So a Tunderbolt =/= Griffin in our games. We also only ever used standard 4/5 pilots which meant hitting a moving target at range was quite difficult. As I said, we would setup large play areas so it wasn't uncommon for some mechs to be able to stay at long range from at least some enemy mechs and I'd usually keep my Griffin on the right flank it kept it's left side facing the enemies. So anyone turning to face him was leaving their right side (or rear) more vulnerable to my other units, ones that can probably hit a whole lot harder than that Griffin that's pecking away at them. If they force my right flank, I'll rotate my forces clockwise to deal with that. Plus, your plan also requires an opponent that doesn't realize they are being baited into a bad position. As someone who's good with math and that's played more than a few games of chess, I consider where my opponent could move their remaining unmoved mechs, how much firepower they could direct that way, and how difficult those shots will likely be. If it's too high risk, I'll move to improve my defense, even if it means a harder shot that turn.

[@Iknowtoomuchable]

My friend keeps turning these things into SRM boats. I'm really not sure why.

[@oliverworley5162]

To be fair, so do I. I can't help it. It's got some great mobility and can pack one hell of a punch. I find the mobility somewhat lost when used on a sniper as the foes will always target the closer mechs first due to more damage from closer mechs, and the closer mechs having more flexibility when attacking. So why shoot the sniper when the brawler is the direct concern at the moment. As such you don't need the jump jets on the Griffin. So instead of taking them off and sticking more weapons, I drop the weapons and give its a giant punch. It's mobile and well armoured, often outlast ing heavier or even assaults if used well

[@louhodo5761]

Hmm... The GRF Griffin, in the DCMS we didn't have many of them and honestly most of the pilots I have seen in them were in the Legion of Vega, so not exactly what I would call "true" warriors. While they were capable distraction on the field the 2nd Legion of Vega and the few Griffin's I saw were .. dishonorable canon fodder.

[@krieg4017]

Good+Jump/

[@BigRed40TECH]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/jpndoaugqtyNr5I&ab_channel=TommyBoy

[@michaelkeha]

one of the 55 ton holy trinity and a favorite but not my favorite of the holy trinity

[@robertgriffin662]

Well they named this mech after one of the best Mechwarriors ever! ME

[@CRAZYUNCLE117]

Like the video, really don't like the mech. Like the jagger, this thing is made out of paper for its weight class. I had never had one that could take more than a few grazing hits. Plus, most of the weapons are kept in the right torso and arm. This means damage to the right torso, or the loss of the right arm, and the mech is essentially neutered. This is a niche support mech, and nothing else.

[@BigRed40TECH]

I like the Griffin personally, but in the role its designed for.

[@eddapultstab2078]

It's better in a pursuit Lance role, where a team of reasonably fast and armed mechs can intercept to either destroy, or soften up approaching forces. It's not a Wolverine but it's armor is far more reasonable than some other mediums. It is a harrasser and a great distraction. I would be very cautious in a beat em up fight, but if there is an objective to play on its one of those perfect designs to drive the opposing player nuts on.

[@CRAZYUNCLE117]

@@eddapultstab2078 Like I said, it is a niche mech. It its intended role, like the urban mech, it performs well. Though ONLY in its intended role.

[@JulianVR4]

The long range Wolverine. Id pick the 6M over any 3025 griffin chassis EVERY time, pilots being equal. I don't like how everything is on the right torso. The thing is downright inefficient when jumping, having to pick between the PPC or LRM rack. Underwhelming. Very narrow range of optimal usage scenarios compared to the Wolverine or even the shadowhawk.

[@BigRed40TECH]

WVR-6M's great- if you have one.

[@JulianVR4]

@@BigRed40TECH im purple, so I ALWAYS have one 😁😁

[@PopeMetallicus]

I've always hated the Wolverine. I'd take a Griffin over one any day. Idk why, but I have terrible luck with the ugly little bastard

[@thaipankatima658]

I fell in love with the Griffin the moment I saw it. But was left rather disappointed with its arsenal and lack of armor. While it had lovely jump capability, the N1 was lackluster at best and the 1S single shot PPC didn't do it for me. It was only when I came across the 2N series that it finally got the punch I was looking for. With 2 sets of SRM-6 and two Medium laser combined with Double Heatsinks, the bastard was a closeup-killing-machine. Despite its setbacks, the Griffin kept its namesake as a flying mech with powerful hit and run tactics. But no matter the results, the Shadow Hawk will always be my baby in the Medium category.

[@BigRed40TECH]

I love the Griffin. Uhhhh. The Shadow Hawk. Uhhhhhh. It's. It's a mech. lol

[@thaipankatima658]

@@BigRed40TECH Don't look down on the Shadow because of its Jack-of-All-Trades mentality. That baby was the staple weapon of the SLDF during its golden years and has kept the peace throughout the solar system until Kerensky's exodus. Yes it doesn't do anything good, but it can still give a veteran pilot a run for its money if they're not careful. Not to mention you can configure it to your hearts content. Especially the 2D model. Strip off the armor for a more offensive build with jump jets. Or vice versa, strip the weapons for bulkier mech WITH jump jets. But I suppose it's all in the preference of the pilot. ^_^

[@BigRed40TECH]

​@@thaipankatima658 I've played for 28 years. In that time, I've never, ever been impressed with the SHD's performance in any configurations barring some late-generation ones recent. All of the stuff from 3060 backwards? Chaff at best. I'll be as gentle as I can in the video, but it's really not a mech I respect. :( Edit: I've knocked out regiments of the things. There is a lot of scrap to back up my feelings on it. lol

[@eddapultstab2078]

@@BigRed40TECH because of all 3, Wolverine, shadowhawk, and Wolverine are the same weight I classify them on ease of use. The Wolverine is the easy mech because of its no nonsense direct fire systems and pure tanking ability, its a good medium for a beginner or someone who likes to keep things simple. The shadowhawk is the 'normal' difficulty, it has that trainer mech style of a weapon in every range category, decent armor and mobility and easily customizable, one of my favorites is replacing the ac with a ppc and heat sinks or replacing one missle pack to double up the other or both. It's a mech not closely associated with a particular playstyle but easy to tune up to the pilots needs. Also, since it's not as heavily armored as the Wolverine, some tactical thought is required to make it work well. The griffin is the hard mode. With its weapons set for longer ranges and minimum range restrictions its the mech that mech that makes a pilot think about tactical placement, especially as a team fire support unit. It is the most rewarding of the three designs when a player is making the map fight for him.

[@thaipankatima658]

@@BigRed40TECH It's your vid man. I'll respect your review. Like I said, it's all about preferences. Shadow Hawk was my babe when I first started out and it got me through some tough times. Yes it's a terrible mech. Even as I played some of the older games, it sucks. But it will always hold a special place in my heart.