I got ridiculously excited last night when I opened the Battletech core boxset…

…and discovered eight miniature Battlemechs!

There’s also an excellent design element in the fact that this boxset includes the Battlemech Record Sheets for the ‘Mechs in the Beginner Box too. Put them together and you have a very playable pair of forces.

Which got me thinking about the core appeal of wargames for me = tangible, tactile, observable play. I love getting the models on the board (aka on the table) and moving them. I love that Battletech has you thinking about facing on the hexmap and that terrain makes a difference. I love rolling the dice.

But I also really enjoy the fact that while I could collect lots of ‘Mechs, I have a playable game right out of the box. It’s an invitation to a beautiful hobby and it’s an invitation that hints at the riches beyond that box set… but doesn’t force it.

I found myself less anxious around learning and even teaching this game. It’s more certain, clearer to learn and use, plus the two sets combine to bring you in slowly:

• The Beginner Box teaches you to roll Initiative, move the ‘Mechs, and shoot the ‘Mechs. There are scenarios and there are optional versions of the machines.
• The core “A Game Of Armoured Combat” box gives you more detail: e.g. Physical Attacks and Heat get added; more weapons; different ‘Mech designs; an introduction to designing your own ‘Mechs; more scenarios; multiple ‘Mechs per side.

How can we do this better with RPGs? Is there a way to introduce the basics of having a character, moving around, making decisions, maybe fighting a little. Then add more detail later. Linked products that take it one step at a time… like Basic, Expert, Advanced maybe?

Yeah, tongue in cheek. But seriously – why do we try to run before we can walk?

Thanks Battletech for helping me rediscover the joy of Battlemechs!

Game on!