From personal experience, its safe, but take that with a grain of salt. optimal for a more up to date heavy metal pro, but has some issues here and there. I mostly use it for custom or to see mechs that i can optimize a little
MegaMek has some very helpful extra stuff tucked away in the options menu. File -> options -> configuration (alt+c) has a 'record sheets and export' tab where you can enable 'print reference tables' and 'print heat profile' - these give you a bunch of reference tables (to-hit modifiers, melee attacks, hit location tables for shooting, punching and kicking, facing changes when falling and, often less relevant, a movement log) and the total weapon heat generation & dissipation respectively - these can really help speed things along if they're right there on the record sheet!
I would pay you actual money in real life if you did a series on all the different megamek software. I always wanted to play a campaign with it, but it always seemed arcane and overwhelming to me.
Tirak has a series of how to start up videos that got me going, and Casual Joker streams live sessions where questions are answered and games are played if that is helpful to you.
Check out "Casual Joker" and "The Silent K", Silent K has a playthrough that's been going for like 2 years Casual Joker has a guide to install/get set up and running. MekHQ in the past year or so has had some really nice QoL updates, like being able to automatically generate a basic merc company with a few clicks of a button. Sometimes its just a matter of jumping in and playing, even if you lose or fuck a bunch of shit up.
I found your channel today. Outstanding work, I'm binging all your videos as we speak. I really love the Battletech lore, but I always struggled with the game itself. If you could make a video that breaks down some basic tactics to follow as a lance commander, that would be hugely appreciated. When to push forward, when to take cover in those heavy woods, how much should you move in a given situation versus trying to optimize your attack numbers. Things like that. I'd love you forever if you upload such a video 😂
Adding to the comments regarding SSW, I prefer printing mech sheets from SSW for two reasons. One, the non-canon dot distribution pattern is easier to cross out as it gets used up. Two, the "Print Tables and Movement Grid" option. It prints the hit location chart, to-hit mods, punch chart, kick chart, physical attack mods, cluster hits, and a turn history table, all which make playing the game easier since every sheet has a built-in reference for that data. The MML sheets are fine, but I *really* like those two features from SSW sheets. And of course, I use MML for all non-mech units. Not least because it's the only way to print some units, but you can also get two combat vees onto a single MML sheet if you use "print queue". Same for up to four CI platoons or squads on a single sheet, up to six BA on a sheet, and up to five protomechs on a sheet. Oh, and you don't need to use "set fluff image". If the image is put into the correct fluff directory ("mech" for protomechs and mechs, "vehicle" for all vehicles including non-combat ones, VTOL, and WiDGE, "BattleArmor" for all BA, and "aero" for all aerospace unit including ASF, conventional fighters, dropships, and warships), then name the file the exact name that's in the "Chassis" line of the MML mech's name, the image will automatically display in MegaMek. You can go further and name the image file the exact "Chassis" name and "Model" name to have the image show up for specific models. For instance, I have a special and different image for the various K2 Catapult models (the Catapult CPLT-K2, CPLT-K2K, CPLT-K3, CPLT-K4). I don't have to set a different fluff image for them, MegaMek just automatically loads up the image. There's some heirarchy in MML regarding filetype, though. If you have two images for the same mech that have the exact same name, but different file extentions (png vs jpg), the system will have a preference for the png over the jpg, and IIRC jpg over gif files. This is somewhat important because MegaMek comes with a few mech images automatically, which can overwrite any user added images if they're of a lower priority filetype. [edit] Added more paragraphs.
I like how you can put in your own custom images into the sheets. For example, there's a dumb pic of a Jenner with a CupaNoodles cup upside down over its "head"
I get the joke about "old people don't understand computers" but Gen Z generally doesn't know how to use them either. Everything has been streamlined way too much so there isn't really much of a true understanding of how to do anything on a computer. The sweet spot is really around 20-40 years old.
There's also a few places you can go to and just download the individual sheets without having to install a bunch of software. This is especially useful if you're using your phone and not a laptop or desktop. But MegaMek does have some great features.
THANK YOU NOA for showing me this. This is awesome. I'm WELL over 30 and ran into problems. Chrome now saves web images as .avif which doesnt work in the MegaMek PDF exporter. It only accepts .png, .jpg, etc. I had to get a chrome extension that allows me to save-as. MegaMek will go through the motions of exporting but the file never appears and you dont get an error.
A (somewhat) related question: Where are the rules for customizing the loadout and creating Frankenmechs? I can not find them in the metric tons of literature.
Its just a shame to load different record sheet you have to exit the program and reload it. Apparently theres no way I can see to load a different existing unit.
it doesnt work, i tried both the milestone and development version, both just says i need java every single time, even after installing java and restarting my PC
welp im going back to college so prolly no time to battletech with dad but we got some mw5 games in so that's fun (highlanders are cool I don't care about my arms falling off)
Hey Wade! I made this video is for people who may struggle technically or just be getting into the Battletech hobby. I think some folks may appreciate a detailed walkthrough. If this video not to your needs feel free to skip it! :)
I would love to see more info on MegaMek. Particularly playing against the AI. She keeps deploying like an absolute clown. I can't figure out how to set deployment rules, so the AI always deploys every mech adjacent to my first mech. Even when I set her demeanor to "cowardly". I also don't understand the terrain rules. I had a medium sniper mech jump on top of a building, but that section of the building collapsed and the mech was totally destroyed. It's just more and more frustrating the more I play.
Buried beneath the "Show More" line.... *DISCLAIMER: I cannot guarantee the safety or security of this free application. Download and use it at your own risk! Safety first!*I think I'll stick to a Nope.
DISCLAIMER: I cannot guarantee the safety or security of this free application. Download and use it at your own risk! Safety first!
From personal experience, its safe, but take that with a grain of salt. optimal for a more up to date heavy metal pro, but has some issues here and there. I mostly use it for custom or to see mechs that i can optimize a little
MegaMek has some very helpful extra stuff tucked away in the options menu. File -> options -> configuration (alt+c) has a 'record sheets and export' tab where you can enable 'print reference tables' and 'print heat profile' - these give you a bunch of reference tables (to-hit modifiers, melee attacks, hit location tables for shooting, punching and kicking, facing changes when falling and, often less relevant, a movement log) and the total weapon heat generation & dissipation respectively - these can really help speed things along if they're right there on the record sheet!
Huh, totally did not know that. Thanks!
thank you!
but somehow it does not printing quirks :(
even if checkbox is enabled
I would pay you actual money in real life if you did a series on all the different megamek software. I always wanted to play a campaign with it, but it always seemed arcane and overwhelming to me.
lol, mayyyybe~
Thats because it is lol. Same as dwarf fortress i suggest a playalong with a yt viseo before you venture out yourself
Tirak has a series of how to start up videos that got me going, and Casual Joker streams live sessions where questions are answered and games are played if that is helpful to you.
Check out "Casual Joker" and "The Silent K",
Silent K has a playthrough that's been going for like 2 years
Casual Joker has a guide to install/get set up and running.
MekHQ in the past year or so has had some really nice QoL updates, like being able to automatically generate a basic merc company with a few clicks of a button.
Sometimes its just a matter of jumping in and playing, even if you lose or fuck a bunch of shit up.
That end tag is great. Watching an orange slime bang his head to metal will never get old lol
Lol thanks!
MegaMek is such a god send. Lmao favorite relative under 30.
:^)
Another good one that is web based is Flechs Sheets
I found your channel today. Outstanding work, I'm binging all your videos as we speak. I really love the Battletech lore, but I always struggled with the game itself. If you could make a video that breaks down some basic tactics to follow as a lance commander, that would be hugely appreciated. When to push forward, when to take cover in those heavy woods, how much should you move in a given situation versus trying to optimize your attack numbers. Things like that. I'd love you forever if you upload such a video 😂
Will do Commander! o7
Thanks for the quick reply. Looking forward to it! Also, bonus points for the Neffex outro song. Love the channel, keep it up!
Adding to the comments regarding SSW, I prefer printing mech sheets from SSW for two reasons. One, the non-canon dot distribution pattern is easier to cross out as it gets used up. Two, the "Print Tables and Movement Grid" option. It prints the hit location chart, to-hit mods, punch chart, kick chart, physical attack mods, cluster hits, and a turn history table, all which make playing the game easier since every sheet has a built-in reference for that data.
The MML sheets are fine, but I *really* like those two features from SSW sheets. And of course, I use MML for all non-mech units. Not least because it's the only way to print some units, but you can also get two combat vees onto a single MML sheet if you use "print queue". Same for up to four CI platoons or squads on a single sheet, up to six BA on a sheet, and up to five protomechs on a sheet.
Oh, and you don't need to use "set fluff image". If the image is put into the correct fluff directory ("mech" for protomechs and mechs, "vehicle" for all vehicles including non-combat ones, VTOL, and WiDGE, "BattleArmor" for all BA, and "aero" for all aerospace unit including ASF, conventional fighters, dropships, and warships), then name the file the exact name that's in the "Chassis" line of the MML mech's name, the image will automatically display in MegaMek.
You can go further and name the image file the exact "Chassis" name and "Model" name to have the image show up for specific models. For instance, I have a special and different image for the various K2 Catapult models (the Catapult CPLT-K2, CPLT-K2K, CPLT-K3, CPLT-K4). I don't have to set a different fluff image for them, MegaMek just automatically loads up the image.
There's some heirarchy in MML regarding filetype, though. If you have two images for the same mech that have the exact same name, but different file extentions (png vs jpg), the system will have a preference for the png over the jpg, and IIRC jpg over gif files. This is somewhat important because MegaMek comes with a few mech images automatically, which can overwrite any user added images if they're of a lower priority filetype.
[edit] Added more paragraphs.
What is “SSW”?
@@SimonAshworthWood solaris Skunk Werks. Another Java based mech designer tool.
Apparently a lot of the table options are available in MML hidden away in the options menu
The final trouble shooting step you put in is the reason I used to run and hide whenever my technologically illiterate father booted up his computer
LOL
I like how you can put in your own custom images into the sheets. For example, there's a dumb pic of a Jenner with a CupaNoodles cup upside down over its "head"
Excellent, now i can simply send a link next time someone asks
I get the joke about "old people don't understand computers" but Gen Z generally doesn't know how to use them either. Everything has been streamlined way too much so there isn't really much of a true understanding of how to do anything on a computer. The sweet spot is really around 20-40 years old.
Speaking on behalf of 40 years olds we don't know either haha.
This is incredibly helpful. Thank you for this.
You're welcome! Glad you enjoyed!
Love the smart-ass comment for IT support.
:^)
There's also a few places you can go to and just download the individual sheets without having to install a bunch of software. This is especially useful if you're using your phone and not a laptop or desktop.
But MegaMek does have some great features.
@@Schala_Zeal there's others, but this one is really good
Thank you a lot for the tips!
That was really good tutorial. is your real world day job training people on computers?
My full time job is a mercenary Mech-Tech for SLIME company!
Mech Factory is another valid one and is mobile too
thanks , i was really struggling with this.
you're welcome!
Instructions unclear, somehow 3D-printed a LAM
D:
Really, how could you tell? For years they've all been unseen. [ducks]
THANK YOU NOA for showing me this. This is awesome. I'm WELL over 30 and ran into problems. Chrome now saves web images as .avif which doesnt work in the MegaMek PDF exporter. It only accepts .png, .jpg, etc. I had to get a chrome extension that allows me to save-as. MegaMek will go through the motions of exporting but the file never appears and you dont get an error.
You're welcome! Happy it's helping!
Nice dig at the end.
:^)
Never tried it. How good is it compared to Solaris Skunk Werks?
Hmm, can't say. Never tried it before
@@nerdyOveranalyzed uhh , possible comparison video?
Thank you Otto!
My pleasure! Enjoy!
LOL 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 "if you have trouble contact a relative under the age of 30" 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 LOL I needed that laugh, BTW I'm 58 years old 😛
I'd pin this if I didn't have to have the disclaimer up. lel
@@nerdyOveranalyzed 👍👍
BTW you don't have to type the mech name in the search bar, you can scroll down the list of mechs.
does that software have vehicles as well?
What file format does the picture need to be? Every one ive tried megamek labs gives an error.
A (somewhat) related question: Where are the rules for customizing the loadout and creating Frankenmechs? I can not find them in the metric tons of literature.
you want to look at Tech Manual for mech contruction/custimization, and IIRC Campaign Operations for Frankenmechs
@@nokerian145 Thank you.
Record sheets should just be available on the master unit list.
It should be, but for now it's just Alpha Strike stat cards. Still a nice resource to use
I get the same error message that it needs Java 11.0 but that is an older type and I can't get that.
Its just a shame to load different record sheet you have to exit the program and reload it. Apparently theres no way I can see to load a different existing unit.
Had to use the most recent version, 0.49.17, in order to get it running on my Windows 11 machine. Timestamp: January 2024.
it doesnt work, i tried both the milestone and development version, both just says i need java every single time, even after installing java and restarting my PC
welp im going back to college so prolly no time to battletech with dad but we got some mw5 games in so that's fun (highlanders are cool I don't care about my arms falling off)
yeah it isnt working..... i downlaode the java script and megamek doesnt do anything
2:35 oh that's low that's real low 😀.
:^)
Aren’t you that one peanut butter scp?
lol, no relation as far as I know!
You do realize there are folks out here who have been continuously gaming on computers since the early 1980's.
Hey Wade! I made this video is for people who may struggle technically or just be getting into the Battletech hobby. I think some folks may appreciate a detailed walkthrough. If this video not to your needs feel free to skip it! :)
@@nerdyOveranalyzed content was fine. Age remark was questionable. I say keep up the content, just watch the remarks that might lose you viewers.
I would love to see more info on MegaMek. Particularly playing against the AI. She keeps deploying like an absolute clown. I can't figure out how to set deployment rules, so the AI always deploys every mech adjacent to my first mech. Even when I set her demeanor to "cowardly". I also don't understand the terrain rules. I had a medium sniper mech jump on top of a building, but that section of the building collapsed and the mech was totally destroyed. It's just more and more frustrating the more I play.
Hmm, there should be a few Battletech Discords that can help you out. MRC Hub is pretty good!
Instructions unclear; downloaded file was a Comstar kill command that's infected the whole sy-
Very good idea here.
Lol thanks! How did you get to use the emojis btw? I wanna too!
@@nerdyOveranalyzed
@@nerdyOveranalyzed shows up as blue button on right of text
So I'm considerably over 30... I started playing Battletech in 1987 or so. But I'm the one that everyone calls for tech support.
heh no worries! Did you find this video helpful?
Getting the pictures is way too hard. I have to convert HTML to PNG.
snipping tool :)
@@nerdyOveranalyzed worked wonders!
@@ScanManP13 yeet yeet yeet
Prefer SSW too.
Buried beneath the "Show More" line....
*DISCLAIMER: I cannot guarantee the safety or security of this free application. Download and use it at your own risk! Safety first!*I think I'll stick to a Nope.
Actually good point. Just pinned a message to let people know. Stay safe!
RIP Me, All of my relatives that are 30 years or younger can't even plug in their xbox's. Time to search for help on Reddit :P
kids these days. Shake my head...
Lol under 30 for trouble shooting.... smell that burn
:^)
thnaks god i'm out of that hot zone!
The problem with Battletech is the poor relationships between weapon systems and realistic tactics. I redesigned a number of mechs to fix that.