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Coming very soon to a retail store near your, MechWarrior 4: Vengeance, complete with new `Mechs, terrains, weaponry, and more. For those players eager to get a glimpse into the game, TJ Wagner, MechWarrior 4 Program Manager, and Derek Carroll, Lead Level Designer and all around Multiplayer master, came online October 3rd, to answer questions about the game. Here is the edited chat excerpt.
+Debbee@ZEvents> Hi Derek and TJ! Welcome to the Zone!
Derek@Mech> Howdy. TO@Mech> Hey Erhardt> The new 'Mech lab is a cool system, but it isn't at *all* "Mechwarrior". A very arbitrary construction system with predetermined load points really stifles the 'Mech creation process. Can you explain how and why it was decided to do this? And how can players hope to design their own ?Mechs from scratch when they're straight-jacketed into making choices from such artificial limitations? Derek@Mech> Ahh? cut and paste. This is all you, TJ. TO@Mech> We always intended for the 'Mech to be unique. The "Hardpoint" system allows each 'Mech to be configurable but retain an unique purpose. There are hundreds of possibilities allowed with the current design. That's it. Derek@Mech> ('Mechs are no longer x-ton bags o' guns) Erhardt> I can appreciate that, but don't you think that slights players who are good at making their own 'Mechs? Isn't it like forcing better 'Mech pilots to play with one arm tied behind their back? TO@Mech> Not at all. We have watched all of the people playing the 4 'Mechs we released with the test and have seen configs that even we didn't think of. Derek@Mech> I don't think so. A good pilot can win in a Stock 'Mech. At any rate, this system dramatically reduces the cheese-factor, and helps good MechWarriors win over those who would normally win through silly maxed designs. Hunterbrill> What will be Mechwarrior 4's exact game system spec requirements? A lot of people seem to be concerned about this after playing the Mechwarrior 4 Stress Test. TO@Mech> We were still not fully optimized for the test. The min spec for the test will be the final shipping min specs though. PII300 w/64 MB RAM, 8MB 3D card. Hunterbrill> What other programs can be downloaded other than the mission editor? TO@Mech> Only the editor is planned at this time. MT_James331> Will custom chasis designs be allowed into MW4, say someone wanted to put in a Marauder? And will the Unknown ?Mechs have their stats released for the board game? Derek@Mech> The LostMechs are lost forever. As for importing new 'Mech models into MW4, TJ? It would be a Herculean task, to say the least. TO@Mech> Not at this time, no. The running joke is that it would take less time to make a real Mech. Moloch_nmo> The best part of MW3 was knocking ?Mechs down and then pounding them into rubble. Will weapons like the Ultra AC 20s work like they did in MW3 so we can make others fall down? Derek@Mech> Falls are in the Test. Hit harder! TO@Mech> Yes, you can knock down 'Mechs. Derek knocked my Thor on it's back today with a longtom. Moloch_nmo> What kind of damage can be done by running into other ?Mechs in pirates moon. Could I jump jet and kick others in the head for a kill? Derek@Mech> DFAs are possible. DFAs are hard. DFAs are satisfying. TO@Mech> Death from Above is definitely supported. Ramming damage is as well. Derek@Mech> Ramming damage is in the Test also, and it's pretty easy. TO@Mech> Narf'n. StarColPryde> Why is it that lasers/pulse lasers, which were workhorse weapons in previous installations of MW, deal such insignificant damage compared to some weapons which take less skill in aiming such as LRM 20 do so much more? Will there be balance fixes? Derek@Mech> Lasers are MUCH easier to aim than ACs. I don't think there's a balance problem so much as a "need time to learn the ropes" problem. And LRMs do take more time to lock, so there's balance there. (Plus, terrain masking?) TO@Mech> Right, pulse lasers have their place. StarColPryde> Ammo, heatsinks, and equipment do not seem to take up criticals. Has the team ever contemplated the compromise of hardpoint and critical, where arms and torso sections would be limited to certain types of weapon criticals (ex. Arm of TimberWolf can only carry energy weapons) while maintaining a more BattleTech feel with unique ?Mechs, OR allowing the fans to create their own mods which they feel would suit a more "BattleTech" feel? Afterall, there is a system that lets you restrict weapons and all. So that "boating" should not have been a problem even with the critical system. TO@Mech> All you Derek Derek@Mech> We went through several iterations of the MechLab interface before we hit on the current one. Modding the way we do 'Mechs is not likely for users. It's pretty deep in the code. So, yeah, we thought about doing it lots of ways, including the easy answer: like it was. KoM_Sidius> Hi, I would like to start by saying you guys did a great job on MechWarrior 3, by far one of the best games out on the market. However the only downside was the fact that there were so many bugs in multiplayer. So my question is, how overall is Mech4 going to improve multiplayer games? TO@Mech> We didn't make MW3 Derek@Mech> Well, I think the Test speaks for itself. The Test is buggy, but most of the issues we've seen raised are fixed already. Multiplayer games are better mainly because of the switch to Client/Server architecture. VB_Wing_38> When you said this game will be as true to BT as possible what exactly did you mean? Fully customizable `Mechs as long as you had critical spaces are a part of Battle tech also legs being removed regardless of the other ones? And how are you going to prevent hacking? Derek@Mech> I'll take the hacking bit because it's a client/server game. A hacked client will not be allowed to play with a "clean" server. The other way it may be possible to hack a server (someday), but your client would say "hey, this isn't right!" and bail. TO@Mech> The game is true to the BT universe. It is about piloting 'Mechs of different sizes and abilities. Otherwise you end of with no difference between the Thor and Loki for example if they can all take the same weapons. VB_Wing_38> Yes, but it seems your more following the novels. TO@Mech> Yes, we wanted to bring the universe and the novels to life. VB_Wing_38> You can use any weapons for Regular Battle tech. But in the novels, no way. Are individual deaths counted and tallied on the kill board for the final version? If not, could you add them please? TO@Mech> Right. We are trying to bring together the best of BattleTech to a real time game. So the answer is “yes”, if I read your question right Derek@Mech> I don't understand the question. VB_worthless> Deaths as in how many times I've been killed like if a team kills me 5 times. Some people were saying it wasn't. TO@Mech> Yup. Derek@Mech> Yes, that's in now. All players should have Score/Kills/Deaths by their name. WolfCross> Going on one of your previous statements, will there be plans to incorporate an auto-updater in the later stages of the MW4Test process? For the purposes of fixing problems that have arisen and see if they are corrected for the masses. TO@Mech> We are really busy shipping the game right now for Christmas. The test was meant to be just that. Not a demo that would be out there being played forever. As much as I would personally like to give out the game for free, I don't think I will convince anyone to do so. Derek@Mech> Ahem, holiday 2000. Bang_yorded> Here's a simple and direct question: the editor(s), is it a go or no go for release and what will we be able to do with them? Can you give an example if possible? Derek@Mech> No go. TO@Mech> The editor will be released to the web after ship. The current plan is to allow you to make mission, both SP and MP. Bang_yorded> How long? TO@Mech> It's hard to say at this point, ASAP. Salvatoris> Hello mantis, Paingod. Let me first say the test looks great. I am wondering if you can tell us approximately how “feature complete” it is , as far as weapons and equipment, HUD, cockpit display, etc. is what we see in the test what we get in the game? TO@Mech> Thanks and Hello Salvatoris. 80% but a lot was not included. What would you like changed? Salvatoris> Ok more specifically, will other equipment that was available in the previous games such as masc be available? TO@Mech> MASC, no. You can upgrade your engine rating though Scurry13> The hardpoint part does not let you enter in "valid" `Mechs from the handouts. MW3 had the best mechlab. Why was this change made? This is going to tick off a lot of diehard Btech fans. Derek@Mech> MW3's mechlab was very hard for most people to use. TO@Mech> We have received a lot of good, positive feedback on the new 'MechLab and the hardpoint system. Derek@Mech> (from very hardcore BT fans, too) Scurry13> But what about `Mechs that carry weapons in slots that you can't make now? TO@Mech> It does allow you to config many of the valid 'Mechs from the handouts. Slots were not final in the test. VMaxx_1> I want to know if you have any contingencies to help get rid of the hacking problem. You indicated client cleanliness, but that implies file checking. Mech3 was hammered by the WriteProcessMemory hack that was distributed (not so much file related). There are common tools now to make trainers that use this. Derek@Mech> We have yet to see a real hack of the Test but even so, we've added many more dirty tricks to keep the hackers at bay. TO@Mech> Very dirty. Derek@Mech> Extremely dirty. TO@Mech> We have a hacker working on it. Derek@Mech> And counter-h4x0rs trying to break it. VMaxx_1> If there is a contingency can it be added to the Zone for the benefit of other games? Derek@Mech> Our tricks are pretty deep in the code of MW4. There's no magical solution that we can apply to other games. BM_TigersRoar> Will there be a expansion pack allowing other `Mechs to be used, personally I'm looking for the Avatar! TO@Mech> That could be our next project, Derek. The Expansion cannot be talked about until it exists, sorry Derek@Mech> I love the avatar. That would be cool. We're not to the planning stages on that, yet. Must... ship... mw4... BM_TigersRoar> Well I hope to see the Avatar. Thank you. TO@Mech> Me too, thanks. knowbody> Great job on the MW4 test, it rocks. Any target release at all for the editor? More than 6 months after release? Less than 3? 3-6? no comment? Derek@Mech> Again, as soon as we can. No real date yet. Sorry. TO@Mech> must_ship_Mech4 Tiger_JFR> Hi Derek and TJ. FASA regularly updates BattleTech mechs, engines, weapons, etc. How do you allow for introduction of new technology into the game? When I tested all the MW2 games that was a real weakness, they were obsolete shortly after they were released. Will you be issuing regular updates? Derek@Mech> "Obsolete"? 3025 `Mechs are still kickin' it years later. TO@Mech> We are working with FASA to keep our designs and games current and in sync, along with the novels and the "Other" 'Mech game. Derek@Mech> (that too) Tiger_JFR> The game should allow for Solaris style play with tricked up `Mechs or teams that want to form lances and companies. The Mech Lab seems unprepared for those styles of play using more stock `Mechs. The current test bed seems like BattleTeck Lite. Derek@Mech> The new MechLab may seem lite, but it's got all the power you need to have fun. We try to max fun and min frustration, and decals! TO@Mech> There is full team and lance support in MW4. There are a number of modes and options that we did not put into the test for multiplayer as well. Gwarsbane_nmo> Hey guys! Great to sees you here. In `Mech 3, the Gauss rifles were very wimpy. They only dealt out 15 points of damage and even 3 of them couldn't knockover someone. How much damage can a Gauss do now? Can 2 or 3 of them knock over a 100 ton. TO@Mech> Derek did the decals. Gwarsbane_nmo> Can you fit 3 on a 100 ton mech? Derek@Mech> You can fit several Gausses on the larger 'Mechs TO@Mech> Falling down is based on points of damage and the `Mech's weight and footing. Gauss' can knock down a 'Mech. How many depends on the 'Mech you are trying to knock down. Gwarsbane_nmo> Does the terrain block radar? As in I can pop up from behind a hill 50 meters away without the other person knowing that I was there? Derek@Mech> No. TO@Mech> Nope NovaStorm28> MechWarrior 2 is my favorite game ever and Mech4 is the title I'm most excited about. Mech3 was a disappointment to me, primarily due to the "sameness" of the environments. I enjoyed the variety afforded by being dropped on different worlds in Mech2. Little details, like the lack of explosions in zero atmosphere, varying gravities, and rapid heat dissipation on cold planets amazed me. Are there any touches like this in Mech4? Derek@Mech> Yes, lots of different environmental effects: fog, snow, rain, steam, geysers... you name it. TO@Mech> Many. There are 7 different environments; weather effects and more explosions than Terminator 2. NovaStorm28> The animations, terrain, and weapon effects (love the missile trails) in the test are very impressive. Well done! However, I do have a few concerns, including: different colors for large vs. medium vs. small lasers would help identify what an attacker is using, controls are difficult to customize, higher res cockpits, and pixelated trees. I trust many of these issues will be addressed before final candidate. Make PPCs really standout visually - I love those. Derek@Mech> The low resolution: the textures sent out in the Test were 1/4 final resolution. Laser colors: ER are green because of the different tech used to make the beam. TO@Mech> Controls will be fully customizable in the release ButWalrus> I am a big FPS fan and I am an avid CounterStrike player(you still owe me a game mantis), yet I have always been terrible at the Mechwarrior series, but it seems now I am wonderful at the MW4 test. What did major parts of multiplayer did you guys tweak? Derek@Mech> I don't understand the question. Taking Fire, Need Assistance? TO@Mech> Since we didn't make MW3, it's hard to say. ButWalrus> What are the major points of multiplayer did you change from the previous games? Derek@Mech> Well, everything: client/server, better physics, etc. TO@Mech> What we based our multiplayer experience on was the Pods in the Virtual World Centers and a little bit of CS. CSV_Abatka> First off, there are some great things about your game, and some things that really piss off a hardcore btecher like myself, eg, the mechlab (as already addressed) also... WHY DOES THE THOR's TORSO TURN 360 degrees? Also, why the new mechs? In my opinion, they are ugly and useless (there are so many mechs that could take their place). Derek@Mech> Ah, the 360. We wanted the Thor to be able to support the Vulture in long-range combat. Giving it 360 helps a lot. TO@Mech> 360, was always there in the BattleTech Simulation for us. CSV_Abatka> But it's not btech. Derek@Mech> That's for Jordan to decide. As for the new 'Mechs, artists love making new stuff and players like playing with new stuff. TO@Mech> You'll have to wait until you play the new 'Mechs to see if they are useful. CSV_Abatka> Also, will all the clan and IS emblems be shipped w/ the retail? TO@Mech> As for me, the uglier the better, it's a war machine Derek@Mech> Decals: all clan, all IS House, many, many Merc. TO@Mech> How many did you make Derek? Derek@Mech> 64 decals in all (not counting my customs). Grendal_66> Howdy guys! Why did you choose to include the several new 'Mechs instead of lets say the warhawk or cauldren born? Wouldn't it have been better to simply stay with the old 'Mech designs and add the new ones in say an expansion pack? TO@Mech> We wanted to define MW4. Derek@Mech> We can add old ones to an expansion pack, too. SA_HOLOCAUST> I love the new netcode and wish to compliment a job well done. I do however have a complaint you're sure to hear about: legging. I want to see them little things fly off! is this way of handling critical hits set now ? Also will your map editor allow depth editing? And will you try to assist the leagues in integrating with Mech4 stats tracking? TO@Mech> Nobody can make new 'Mechs but us. Derek@Mech> "depth editing"? SA_HOLOCAUST> For 3D terrains like canyons and such. TO@Mech> We will certainly do all that we can to help the leagues. We have canyons in many of our maps. Derek@Mech> Well, our editor obviously makes 3D terrain. CLAN_UA_BULLDOG> I would like to congratulate you on the work you guys have into this genre of Mechwarriors. It has come a long way from MW. My question is the controls need to be simple to use with the keyboard like mw3 because what happens if I don't want to get a game that is only joystick friendly? Derek@Mech> There will be full keyboard/mouse control in MW4 (and thanks). TO@Mech> Thanks, yes mantis is determined to have great mouse support. CLAN_UA_BULLDOG> About the new weapon, the long tom, how useful will it be? Derek@Mech> Against buildings, very useful. Against moving targets... who knows? TO@Mech> Derek knocked me down with it today. IG_Adam> Will there be different modes of multiplayer game play such as Capture the Flag, possibly four team capture the flag in the full game when its released? Derek@Mech> In the Test, Adam and you could make a map with 4 teams, too. TO@Mech> Yep, already there and in the final Erhardt> If the goal of the 'Mech Lab was partly to stay true to Battletech (something I and a bunch of people who have messaged me since my first question think it utterly fails at... I gotta be honest), shouldn't the Clan machines *at least* be fitted with all Omni hardpoints? Outside of the Lab, the test looks great! Thanks guys. Derek@Mech> Paste it to me! Making the "ears" on the Mad Cat Omni would defeat part of the Hardpoint system. Lasers look dumb when they come out of missile racks. TO@Mech> Never liked that myself. draez68> Are the areas in `Mech 4 mixed (i.e. inside buildings or underground dwellings) and then in the same level huge landscapes. What size levels can we expect to see as compared to previous `Mech titles? TO@Mech> Mostly huge outdoor environments like you have never seen before. You can enter building large enough to house your 'Mech. Derek@Mech> 'Mechs don't do to well underground. Our maps are generally about 4Km across. There's one in the test. Hunterbrill> There are some rumors that the Clan Ghost Bear is making an appearence in the game, can you confirm this? Derek@Mech> I cannot. (Though their decal makes an appearance!) TO@Mech> I can neither confirm nor deny Hunterbrill> How many levels and missions will there be in the single campaign? TO@Mech> 26 +Debbee@ZEvents> thanks for being here with us tonight Derek and TJ, we are looking forward to the release of MW4! |
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