Only thing I'd recommend is to avoid playing a clanner. Players get really, REALLY anal about their honor code, even when applying it incorrectly.

That's really all you need to know, honestly.

A rules primer PDF can be found at www.classicbattletech.com in the downloads section. This is the same sort of scenario we run new players through during conventions in what we agents affectionately refer to as "BootCamp"

http://www.classicbattletech.com/index.php?action=products&mode=full&id=179

This will give you a good basic foundation in tactical-scale battletech. You'll learn how to recognize most parts of a standard record sheet, how the weapons work, how calculating to-hit numbers works. The basic elements of damage allocation and damage transfer.

Things not covered:
Critical Hits
Heat
Advanced Piloting Skill Rolls.
Additional weapon effects. (More then what is presented in that material)

During the Gen Con game, don't worry about it, there will be lots of experienced players available to answer questions and offer advice. Just remember to only trust mine! Since I'm impartial.

Allthough I have only played the computer games and read the books, I could see where that would get complicated. my .02

Okay guys, updated with a poll for what day of Gen Con would be best to run the game. In then next few days I'll also have some teaser pictures of the minis and terrain for the game.

I voted for Thursday but I can also do Friday night if it suits people better. Saturday I would only be available very late - after 10 pm.

Okay, given my own schedule and the way things are shaking out, I'm aiming for a Friday Night game of BT. This way most folks are there and the real late night party night of Saturday remains free for other uses. The event is up in Con Planner, and Dan, a seat is reserved for you as leader of the gladiators if you so desire.


Brief Game Description (Taken from Con Planner)
Battletech played FTB style. A three way battle where the Word of Blake (toaster worshippers) and Lyran Alliance (Users of fine broadsides) battle for control of one of the last functioning long range transmitters on Solaris VII. The two warring factions are not alone however, as an intrepid band of Solaris Gladiators also want to seize the programming facilities, as they have a podcast to put on!

This event will run from 8:00 PM until 2 AM in the Open Gaming Area

Rules in use:
Battletech: Total Warfare/Tactical Operations

Okay, on the way back from another great Gen Con. I'd like to thank everyone for coming out to play. Everyone had a great time, and watch this thread for pictures coming soon.

FEAR THE TOAST!!!

Please, my hammer took the objective unmolested.