One of my English teachers had us read an excerpt from Grendel, a 1972 novel that tells part of Beowulf from Grendel's point of view: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grendel_(novel)
We love the Grendel because they find room for the small lasers. It's the little things that make all the difference when it's cold outside or you and your sibko mates are bored and want to start a fire.
@@MechanicalFrog They are so useful for a variety of day to day tasks. Don't let me play in a Mechwarrior Destiny RP game, I'll be using my small laser for everything.
Yet another medium mech I hadn't heard of before. Mech Frog blessing us with knowledge of unknown gems. It's got a good blend of mobility, armour and firepower, with enough heat sinks to use everything effectively. I like it!
Glad to see this mech, cause I was literally thinking “Damn the Grendel could use some love, it’s such a good mech” And then boom, this vid pops up! It’s always been my go to er equipped medium for the clans not only cause of the look but the nice balance it has, and the variant with the heavy laser is my absolute favorite, as I adore heavy firing weapons even it gets bot
@@sim.frischh9781 Um, no? A lot are at least as heavy, with multiple notable examples being scaled up. And this really doesn't fit the same usage as a Centurion.
Fun fact: Grendel is also the name of a pretty awesome comic book series. If you like a punk rock art style, and humor you will also like this one as well
While I agree that Grendel is an awesome comic series, it's not the the first one that comes to mind when I think of comedy. It's a long-form study of evil and corruption. Not exactly great humor material.
The Grendel Cis a stadium variant. With 1 LB-10x tee shirt cannon and the emotional support small laser for any unruly Karen’s who get the wrong size free shirt.
I recently put a Grendel A into an Operation Bulldog game it did well. I also think that given its plasma cannons, the 'F' in the F configuration stands for "Frog".
Frog: Why do we love the Grendel? Me: The what now? [One video viewing later] Me: Oh, that's why. Usually not a fan of XL engines in 'Mechs that small, but the speed should make the Grendy pretty difficult to hit. Rather a good middle-weight omnimech, although I think it looks best in bright yellow so it looks like an industrialmech that's wandered off during lunch.
I love you Mechanical Frog. I haven't heard the Grendel since my BattleTech Trading Card Games. This brings warm and fuzzy memories of my middle school days.
The Grendel always felt like a Bushwacker that learned to fully stand up for me. I as usual like to go for a more fast cycling medium weaponry to go brawl with.
@@Primearch-GG There is a redemption arch here though. The plucky hero in his Beowulf gets defeated by the villainous Grendel. 80s style Rocky training montage with 'Eye of the Tiger'. The our hero returns as a Beowulf IIC ready for a proper throw down.
Another great vid, MechFrog. I’ve known of the Grendel but never fielded one, faced one or ever really looked into it’s stats. Just checking it’s AS cards now too and it’s a really nice mech!👍
Though the Stormcrow is usually my go-to pick for Clan medium mechs, there’s no denying that the Grendel cuts a fantastic balance between firepower/speed/armor albeit with more emphasis on speed and maneuverability. I’d pilot one in a heartbeat if I needed a Clan machine with a 7/11/7 movement profile.
Anything that can jump 7 hexes and has a significant weapon load (especially weapons dealing 10-damage or more per location roll) can be a huge problem in short order and the grendel is no exeption. Grendel Prime, C, D, E, G, H, J and to a lesser extent I are all extremely dangerous backstabbers while their range allows them to function well before/until such manures become viable.
When I first saw the Grendel and its Prime configuration it seemed like the ideal Clan 45 ton medium 'Mech. The Grendel is the only Clan 'Mech where I solely use its Inner Sphere name rather than its Clan name. The Clan 45 ton trio are in same ways the Clan equivalent of the Inner Sphere 55 ton trio. Each has its role and its proponents and together they can work extremely well as a team.
My name is king Hrōðgār of the Danes, son of Halfdan, brother of Halga, uncle of Hrólfr Kraki, spouse of Wealhþeow, lord of Heorot….and I disapprove of this message!
The Grendel is a machine that can easily punch way above its weight. Due to the combination if great speed and good armor it is quite hard to get off the table, and if properly managed it can keep punching holes in the opposition. Not really a machine to send out on its own, but properly supported it is a beast.
Greetings Mech Frog. The primary allure of the Grendel is the versatility and number of variants available to the Mech design. Although many are not what most Mechwarriors would field in battle, and most are seemingly aimed at short duration fighting before needing refit and rearming, there are a couple of 'energy boat' designs that are useful and desirable. Here at the Hellsport Mek Werks on Hel, in the Stygia system, in association with the Hellsport Mech Museum, we have looked over your proposed variant on the Grendel chassis. Your design is a good 'all rounder' type Mech. Able to fire upon foes at long range with that ER Large Laser and do a fair amount of damage as the Mech closes with its target. The three ER Medium Lasers are then employed with effect to increase the damage potential nicely. The four Clan Machine Guns in the Left Torso are quite good at 'street sweeping' any pesky Infantry in the Mech's way, and can do considerable damage to even Battle Armored foes. Add in the ER Mediums, and most stars of Battle Armor will be reduced quite efficiently. The addition of three more Clan tech Double Heat Sinks keeps the Mech from overheating. My only real comment is placing that half ton of MG ammo into the Left Arm. I know it is not something most Techs would do, but shifting a single Ferro-Fiberous anchor point from the Left Torso to the Left arm enables one to mount that ammo into the Left Torso and still leave 2 critical slots to mount one of the three extra heat sinks. The other two can be easily placed into the Right Torso, along with the Targeting Computer. The Targeting Computer is well worth its mass in increasing the accuracy of the ER Large and ER Medium lasers. Thus ensuring the Mech is consistently performing to a 'higher standard' in combat. The Mek Werks has confirmed the overall utility of your design, but suggests the movement of the FF 'slot' to the Arm location to better protect that half ton of volatile MG ammo by its movement to the Left Torso. During testing, at least one Mech built to your specifications cooked off its MG ammo when a PPC hit penetrated the Left Arm. This resulted in enough damage to destroy the Mech for combat purposes, and totally blew off the left arm and left torso. Resulting in serious damage to the Mech's Fusion Engine, and the loss of at least one Clan DSHS. We have noted that there is a serious lack of missile interception in the design. Thus, the Mek Werks has suggested that the MGs and ammo be totally replaced with two Clan AMS systems, and a single ton of ammo. This necessitates shaving off a half ton of armor to keep the Mech within its specified weight limit. Both the Mech Museum and the Mek Werks suggest that you test this alternate variation when you can find the time to do so. We both feel that protecting the Grendel as it closes upon its target is more important than the ability to spray lead at Infantry which can be bypassed in any case and dealt with by other units. Slowing down to deal with Infantry, or even Battle Armor, just makes the Mech a sitting target. Not something any good Mechwarrior wishes to be on a battlefield. Diana McFairlain, Head Mech Tech, Ghost Lions Legions Hellsport Mech Museum Stygian Compact
I want to like it, but the shadow cat exists. The Grendel G is crazy and I both support this and now wish I had other mechs that were built for such close encounters at extreme speeds. Moving 14 hexes in a turn to get into micro pulse laser is fantastic... until you fail the piloting check and crash into a building.
I'm so Warframe brained that my gut response was, "Because he's an om nom nom wrecking ball who plays like a mix of Ben 10's Cannonbolt and Upchuck! Also best buds with Gauss." But this is an able omnimech too.
I see you, you little Guillotine you. I’m not normally a fan of mechs with a single large laser as a “main” weapon, but you sir make a compelling argument.
I have two of them in my Clan Diamond Shark star. They aren't amazing, but they are very solid all rounders. They are good because they can do everything, at least a bit. I run a Tukayyid era force. 2 Piranhas, 2 Mongrel/Grendels, 1 Mad Cat/Timberwolf, and my Masakari/Warhawk. I admit my forces aren't the best, but depending on situation, they can be devastating.
Changes to MF version. MGs-> micropulses. Ton ammo -> another dhs. Also, the AP gauss/rifle variant is scary. 3 mdm pulse 4 small pulse all the ap gauss and 4 tons ammo. It shreds and APGs crit seek like no one's biz. Plus small pulses plus apgs are the bane of infantry and battle armor. Convert mdm pulses to er mdms and use extra tonnage for PWS. Getting in close and out quickly is no longer a problem. The extra heatsinking from PWS doesn't hurt either. 😊
The Grendel C seems like it would be best used as an anti-infantry/light vehicle/aircraft build with cluster shot, perhaps in a counter-insurgency role. The AMS can protect it from incoming inferno SRMs of the sort PBI likes to use against mechs while the ER medium laser lets it cut apart any vehicles disabled by the autocannon. Otherwise if you're running it with solid shot, it's like a really fast version of an Enforcer. Also, on the MF I'd swap the machine guns for light machine guns, trading damage for range since they'd mostly be used for crit seeking.
It's like the Diamond Sharks tried to break the 40 ton curse by replacing them all with one mech, and made it a little heavier to do so. Halfassin speed, while only the Vulcan isn't echoed in these configurations and with Toads around why bother? The C config emulates a AC/10 Clint. I can't think of a SLDF or Succession War 40 or 45 that couldn't be duplicated with a really good movement profile here. Even if Clan Bean Counter couldn't figure out how to use it, and Tukk was an anti-marketing campaign, they made something worth buying. Most Clan mechs are over refined and made for dueling and competition, but this one is a mud and dust ready service weapon to the point I wouldn't feel gross driving.
The Grendel is one of the best Clan Medium mechs. But not for adaptablity as much as its basic layout. A speedy laser boat that can take a hit or two, the Grendel is the Clan version of a Wolfhound. That's a great basic design. the other main variants mainly swap the the LL for something different. A Clan LRM isn't bad, and the UAC-5 isn't bad either. The LBX- 10 though is too big for the frame, and not enough ammo to make it work. The later models are mainly the same, with the Grendel doing well it's allowed to shine as a gun bus.
The C config is very much a dud, but if you have to use it, employ it as a fast headhunter against vehicles. It'll turn VTOLs into skeet like no one's business and can motive-kill most vehicle types by fishing for mobility crits from side hits. The AMS will let you live long enough to get in the LRM minimum range or provide a modicum of protection against SRMs between 6 to 9 hexes, which makes those particular missile carriers very vulnerable to the speed and crit-fishing of the C.
Grendel is a very capable 'mech but its verrrry expensive in terms of BV, but it does pay it back, the config with the LB could be useful against vehicles but it is a bit rubbish otherwise, and your config is very good :)
My completely uneducated guess, the Grendel-C was used as missle-boat hunters. Call in locations of IS Archer/Catapults/etc during the invasion, neutralizing their fire with AMS as they close while a friendly breaches through the armor. Once close, open up with cluster rounds trying to detonate ammo bins. Or maybe in an anti-aircraft role?
The C configuration is far more useful when you face vehicles on the battlefield. Cluster shots are far more dangerous to tanks and if you are about to face a Hell Horse opponent the C configuration might be a prudent choice.
I mainly love the Grendel because I'm biased toward all 45 tonners, but I also love it because it's aggressively trying to stay mediocre. While there are some bad configs, the good ones are always a few tweaks from greatness. Though I'll need to play it more to be sure, it seems like in most cases it will perform well without standing out. Side note: I think you could make a Grendel that works with an autocannon, though I still don't recommend it. The best I can do is merging the B and C configs by swapping the UAC5 for a LB-5X AC and switching one of the Medium Pulse Lasers for a ER Medium for another ton of ammo. It's still not that good, but I think it has a fighting chance.
Love me some Battletech . Major lore points in the pacific northwest , yes plz . Growing up when i heard twilight takes place in Washington best thing from here , I said no no Battletech is or the tom hanks movie lol. shout out to University Place and Gig Harbor . Go Vikings , Go Cougs
I like it, a solid and plucky generalist that is easy on the eyes (looks like a pocket Grizzly). For me, every configuration needs a little tweaking; I like a LPL in the RA, two ERML in the left, and an SRM-6 with artemis plus a ton of ammo in the RT; do with the remaining two tons what you will (ECM and a DHS maybe). I really don't see autocannons working on anything less than 50 tons in optimal builds, sub-optimally you work with what you've got right? #BTA3062. I've noticed you don't mention quirks, do most people not play with them?
next can we get some more forgotten or obsence clan mechs like first gen omnis? For the b config i'd swap out the uac5 for a ERPPC and 2 double heat sinks to deal with the extra heat. (using the extra ton from dropping the uac5 and another for to replace the ammo. the M config brings up a point on the Clan RAc the clan rac is the only clan weapon larger than it's IS counterpart, though it's the same weight and has more range so.
I know it obviously is taboo to ask in this community, but do you miss Blaine Lee Pardoe's contributions to Battletech? His writing always smacked of authentic knowledge of military concerns and logistics, as well as the human component of war. I still remember reading Exodus Road at age 10 and feeling like the stompy robots actually mattered.
@MechanicalFrog I still remember Pardoe discussing a Marauder from Star Captain Trent's perspective and, even though I didn't quite understand the massive technological advantage the Clans had, feeling like Marauders were still respected, ancient weapons of war. It left a huge impression on me as a kid and, as a result, playing Mechwarrior computer games as an adult, I still favor obsolete Marauders over anything else.
the MF without any plasma weaponry? did minifrog make it on you? Overall I was surprised the models did not try more of the close in barrage firepower with targeting computer with its speed and mobility to get in there. The micro laser model was closest seen but still lack of targeting computer in it.
I love the mini, but the movement profile sends the BV of most of the configs waaaay too high for a mech with weight-limited firepower in my experience. If your group picks mapsheets before forces are made, it's a good unit to have in your toolbox for heavily forested maps or city fights where the jump movement makes a big difference, but since most groups *don't* plan scenarios like that it can be hard to justify based on cost alone.
I think you are using the M configuration backward. The laser is the primary weapon that needs to be utilised to upen some holes at range and then you use the RAC for ranged crit seeking without ever closing like the SRMs would usually require. I'd say that the LB 5-X would do a better job at that though. The G configuration I'd suspect that this thing might just be a downgraded Society configuration, because if you replace the Watchdog CEWS with a Nova CEWS then the need to get in the light pulse laser range along with overall Grendel durability and target modifiers this thing would become quite a terror.
A variant with a plasma rifle that doesn't give the MF the warm and fuzzies?! And a custom build that only includes obligatory JJs?! I think that's about as close to "blink twice if in distress" that well ever get. 😆 I know there's been some bad sickness stuff going around in the PNW, you feeling ok?
I generally like clan mediums, more so even than the heavies. Grendel though... A lot of the configs are a miss to me - way too many are trying to cram that AC where it just doesn't belong - those sacrifice too much weight for too little gain. But energy/missile builds are fine. Not hilariously overgunned, fast, well protected for its size. Solid fast medium.
You know what I realized about the Grendel? This thing sucks as an omnimech. The Prime is decent and flexible but almost every other configuration has glaring issues. It would be less embarrassing as some kind of IIC.
Drop AC arm, slap on laser arm. Pad heats sinks. Add a TC and laser insulation system...maybe AES on laser arms... Maybe save some space for micros... Now it's a party!
I think when the game makers were designing the Grendel, they made an effort to not make any of the configurations too good. Most configurations are only one or two tweaks away from being great. For example, you can easily upgrade the B into a better D by swapping the UAC5 for a ER PPC and 2 DHS. Or you can make the F better by dropping either a Plasma cannon or the ATM 6 for any combination of more ammo, some lasers, and heat sinks. Not that I think this is a bad thing. I like that the Grendel is constantly trying to be average. I think it's a good and lore friendly way to ease new players into the mechlab, as they each probably can think of some small way to improve a Grendel Config that suits their playstyle.
I feel it is important to appreciate the proper grammatical use of the words "less" and "fewer." On a Battletech note, autocannons are bad, and it upsets me how bad they are. Someone needs to fix this. On a video note, I'm not sure what you changed, but the mech stats were much easier to see and read, even on my phone. Gj.
That's fair. The Grendel is a solid foundation, but shows that just because you can do something, doesn't mean you should. And yeah, it's looks are an acquired taste. It's gotten better with time, but it's still a bit of a mess. I do like how the big guns consistently end up in the right arm though, I think that's one thing it does right.
Because we want our English teacher to love us.
We do like to keep them happy.
I understood that reference!🙋♂️
One of my English teachers had us read an excerpt from Grendel, a 1972 novel that tells part of Beowulf from Grendel's point of view: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grendel_(novel)
We love the Grendel because they find room for the small lasers. It's the little things that make all the difference when it's cold outside or you and your sibko mates are bored and want to start a fire.
Very important to have a small laser around.
@@MechanicalFrog They are so useful for a variety of day to day tasks. Don't let me play in a Mechwarrior Destiny RP game, I'll be using my small laser for everything.
As a dedicated CN9-AL user, the Grendel Prime whispers sweet nothings in my ear.
Heh. Embrace the siren's call.
@@MechanicalFrog Yes, listen to the 3 tonner with twin LMG's.
I kid. Do what makes you happy.
Yet another medium mech I hadn't heard of before. Mech Frog blessing us with knowledge of unknown gems.
It's got a good blend of mobility, armour and firepower, with enough heat sinks to use everything effectively. I like it!
Glad you enjoyed it!
I am consistently wowed by the painted submissions for these videos. Everyone is doing some great work.
They are!
One of my favorite Clan mediums that is rarely mentioned, for some reason. Solid design.
Unfortunately, it tends to be forgotten in among more famous peers.
I love it because its a handsome little lad that gives great combat hugs.
Excellent reason.
Glad to see this mech, cause I was literally thinking
“Damn the Grendel could use some love, it’s such a good mech”
And then boom, this vid pops up!
It’s always been my go to er equipped medium for the clans not only cause of the look but the nice balance it has, and the variant with the heavy laser is my absolute favorite, as I adore heavy firing weapons even it gets bot
I keep thinking of this mech as a Centurion IIC, especially with the variants fielding any AC.
Hmm... It has a bit of the look, but lacks the gravitas.
@@MechanicalFrog Most of the IIC designs are lighter and less hefty after all, so it fits XD
@@sim.frischh9781 Um, no? A lot are at least as heavy, with multiple notable examples being scaled up.
And this really doesn't fit the same usage as a Centurion.
Time to learn to love this mongrel of a clan mech!
I see what you did there.
Fun fact: Grendel is also the name of a pretty awesome comic book series. If you like a punk rock art style, and humor you will also like this one as well
While I agree that Grendel is an awesome comic series, it's not the the first one that comes to mind when I think of comedy. It's a long-form study of evil and corruption. Not exactly great humor material.
I have been following Grendel and Mage since the 90s. 👍
Interesting mech. Seems a tough customer.
Rough and tumble.
bro is spittin fire with every video!!
Thank ya!
The Grendel Cis a stadium variant. With 1 LB-10x tee shirt cannon and the emotional support small laser for any unruly Karen’s who get the wrong size free shirt.
That J config is scratching my love of "SRM to the Face!" mechs along with pulse lasers.
I recently put a Grendel A into an Operation Bulldog game it did well. I also think that given its plasma cannons, the 'F' in the F configuration stands for "Frog".
Frog: Why do we love the Grendel?
Me: The what now?
[One video viewing later]
Me: Oh, that's why.
Usually not a fan of XL engines in 'Mechs that small, but the speed should make the Grendy pretty difficult to hit. Rather a good middle-weight omnimech, although I think it looks best in bright yellow so it looks like an industrialmech that's wandered off during lunch.
This is the closest I've been to catching you live for ages!
Looks like a great video, am sure I'll have thoughts once I've actually watched it.
Hope you enjoy it. Have a great week!
Mechfrog: *Releases a great video on the Grendel*
Me: *Excitedly anticipates a video on the Beowulf & Beowulf IIC*
Maybe...
I love you Mechanical Frog. I haven't heard the Grendel since my BattleTech Trading Card Games. This brings warm and fuzzy memories of my middle school days.
The Grendel always felt like a Bushwacker that learned to fully stand up for me. I as usual like to go for a more fast cycling medium weaponry to go brawl with.
Good company being compared to the Bushwacker.
Ultimate Medium Mech Duel: Grendel vs. Beowolf.
I feel like that wouldn't go well for the IS Beowulf.
@jamesc.7216 it's a Clan mech vs. an IS mech, what did you expect, An eating contest?
@@Primearch-GG There is a redemption arch here though. The plucky hero in his Beowulf gets defeated by the villainous Grendel. 80s style Rocky training montage with 'Eye of the Tiger'. The our hero returns as a Beowulf IIC ready for a proper throw down.
I personally love the Grendel because it's a 45-tonner, and I have an unhealthy love of that weight bracket.
No fuss, no muss.
Same here! I think a lot of people sell 45-tonners short.
Ooh, first. Gonna guess MF has plasma rifles and ATM.
Not quite.
Grendel is suffering from Mediummechtitus , trying to do too much with limited weight.
Easily the most underrated mech in the 1st clan kickstarter.
Another great vid, MechFrog. I’ve known of the Grendel but never fielded one, faced one or ever really looked into it’s stats. Just checking it’s AS cards now too and it’s a really nice mech!👍
It's solid. Have a great week!
Though the Stormcrow is usually my go-to pick for Clan medium mechs, there’s no denying that the Grendel cuts a fantastic balance between firepower/speed/armor albeit with more emphasis on speed and maneuverability. I’d pilot one in a heartbeat if I needed a Clan machine with a 7/11/7 movement profile.
I love the Mongrel/Grendel! It is a solid Mech that can do a few things. I love using it in tandem with the Conjurer or with light mechs.
It's a solid generalist.
@@MechanicalFrog absolutely, I never call a Batchall with out at least one Grendel(2 if I am feeling daring)
That Grendel J is a brutal knife fighter. The rear armour inspector has arrived!
I feel for you and the maple leaves. I have a couple of mulberry trees to deal with.
Anything that can jump 7 hexes and has a significant weapon load (especially weapons dealing 10-damage or more per location roll) can be a huge problem in short order and the grendel is no exeption. Grendel Prime, C, D, E, G, H, J and to a lesser extent I are all extremely dangerous backstabbers while their range allows them to function well before/until such manures become viable.
Well put.
We just need a mech called Beowulf to remove its arm in order to destroy it. Oh wait!
Another video down for my favorite mech reviewer on TH-cam!
Glad you're enjoying the content!
When I first saw the Grendel and its Prime configuration it seemed like the ideal Clan 45 ton medium 'Mech. The Grendel is the only Clan 'Mech where I solely use its Inner Sphere name rather than its Clan name. The Clan 45 ton trio are in same ways the Clan equivalent of the Inner Sphere 55 ton trio. Each has its role and its proponents and together they can work extremely well as a team.
The MF has everything I want in an armoured vehicle, a big enough gun that people can't ignore you and enough machine guns to make infantry miserable.
Would love to have this mech in MWO. Loadout wise I've been a big fan of it's capabilities as a medium mech.
A solid general omnimech. No fuss, no muss.
I just got my clan invasion box... I was surprised with it's mobility and the punch it packs.
My name is king Hrōðgār of the Danes, son of Halfdan, brother of Halga, uncle of Hrólfr Kraki, spouse of Wealhþeow, lord of Heorot….and I disapprove of this message!
Why do we love the Mongrel? Because it lets us ask what tha dog doin.
Indeed...
The Grendel is a machine that can easily punch way above its weight. Due to the combination if great speed and good armor it is quite hard to get off the table, and if properly managed it can keep punching holes in the opposition. Not really a machine to send out on its own, but properly supported it is a beast.
Greetings Mech Frog.
The primary allure of the Grendel is the versatility and number of variants available to the Mech design. Although many are not what most Mechwarriors would field in battle, and most are seemingly aimed at short duration fighting before needing refit and rearming, there are a couple of 'energy boat' designs that are useful and desirable.
Here at the Hellsport Mek Werks on Hel, in the Stygia system, in association with the Hellsport Mech Museum, we have looked over your proposed variant on the Grendel chassis. Your design is a good 'all rounder' type Mech. Able to fire upon foes at long range with that ER Large Laser and do a fair amount of damage as the Mech closes with its target. The three ER Medium Lasers are then employed with effect to increase the damage potential nicely. The four Clan Machine Guns in the Left Torso are quite good at 'street sweeping' any pesky Infantry in the Mech's way, and can do considerable damage to even Battle Armored foes. Add in the ER Mediums, and most stars of Battle Armor will be reduced quite efficiently. The addition of three more Clan tech Double Heat Sinks keeps the Mech from overheating.
My only real comment is placing that half ton of MG ammo into the Left Arm. I know it is not something most Techs would do, but shifting a single Ferro-Fiberous anchor point from the Left Torso to the Left arm enables one to mount that ammo into the Left Torso and still leave 2 critical slots to mount one of the three extra heat sinks. The other two can be easily placed into the Right Torso, along with the Targeting Computer.
The Targeting Computer is well worth its mass in increasing the accuracy of the ER Large and ER Medium lasers. Thus ensuring the Mech is consistently performing to a 'higher standard' in combat.
The Mek Werks has confirmed the overall utility of your design, but suggests the movement of the FF 'slot' to the Arm location to better protect that half ton of volatile MG ammo by its movement to the Left Torso. During testing, at least one Mech built to your specifications cooked off its MG ammo when a PPC hit penetrated the Left Arm. This resulted in enough damage to destroy the Mech for combat purposes, and totally blew off the left arm and left torso. Resulting in serious damage to the Mech's Fusion Engine, and the loss of at least one Clan DSHS.
We have noted that there is a serious lack of missile interception in the design. Thus, the Mek Werks has suggested that the MGs and ammo be totally replaced with two Clan AMS systems, and a single ton of ammo. This necessitates shaving off a half ton of armor to keep the Mech within its specified weight limit.
Both the Mech Museum and the Mek Werks suggest that you test this alternate variation when you can find the time to do so. We both feel that protecting the Grendel as it closes upon its target is more important than the ability to spray lead at Infantry which can be bypassed in any case and dealt with by other units. Slowing down to deal with Infantry, or even Battle Armor, just makes the Mech a sitting target. Not something any good Mechwarrior wishes to be on a battlefield.
Diana McFairlain,
Head Mech Tech,
Ghost Lions Legions
Hellsport Mech Museum
Stygian Compact
I want to like it, but the shadow cat exists. The Grendel G is crazy and I both support this and now wish I had other mechs that were built for such close encounters at extreme speeds. Moving 14 hexes in a turn to get into micro pulse laser is fantastic... until you fail the piloting check and crash into a building.
The Sharks did in fact decide Grendel was a better name after all as well and renamed it officially.
I'm so Warframe brained that my gut response was, "Because he's an om nom nom wrecking ball who plays like a mix of Ben 10's Cannonbolt and Upchuck! Also best buds with Gauss."
But this is an able omnimech too.
Kinda feels like a clan version of the Vindicator
11:48 Now I am trying not to imagine what a cup of Jeremiah's Butte Bricks would look like....
Some prefer their micro-krill rehydrated and some prefer to eat it in brick form.
Solid mech, I'd pair it with my 3050 full clan tech PheonixHawk rebuild for a Nasty Surprise.
Always hard to beat the allure of a Phoenix Hawk.
@@MechanicalFrog PHX-5A, 6/9/6, Armo facttor 153. 45 tons, 2.25t endo-steel, 7.25t XL with DHS, 6t standard cockpit and gyro, 3t jump jets, 8t Fero-Fiberous, leaves 18.5t podspace.
Prime: 2 Large Pulse Lasers (r/la), 2 MPL (r/la), 4 MG (r/la), 1t MG ammo (ct, clan case), clan flamer (ct)
ALT config: 2 ERLL (r/la), 2 ERML (r/la), 3t Targeting Computer (rt), 2 Streak SRM-2 (r/lt), 1t SRM/inferno ammo (lt, clan case), clan flamer (ct)
Given the naming, I'd have replaced most of those ERSL's with flamers.
I see you, you little Guillotine you.
I’m not normally a fan of mechs with a single large laser as a “main” weapon, but you sir make a compelling argument.
I have two of them in my Clan Diamond Shark star. They aren't amazing, but they are very solid all rounders. They are good because they can do everything, at least a bit. I run a Tukayyid era force. 2 Piranhas, 2 Mongrel/Grendels, 1 Mad Cat/Timberwolf, and my Masakari/Warhawk. I admit my forces aren't the best, but depending on situation, they can be devastating.
Reliable generalist.
@@MechanicalFrogyep. A clan trooper mech.
Changes to MF version. MGs-> micropulses. Ton ammo -> another dhs.
Also, the AP gauss/rifle variant is scary. 3 mdm pulse 4 small pulse all the ap gauss and 4 tons ammo.
It shreds and APGs crit seek like no one's biz. Plus small pulses plus apgs are the bane of infantry and battle armor.
Convert mdm pulses to er mdms and use extra tonnage for PWS.
Getting in close and out quickly is no longer a problem.
The extra heatsinking from PWS doesn't hurt either. 😊
Those micropulses are fun...
Wish they put ecm instead of cews on the g config, sneaking in with all those short range lasers in the back sounds awesome
The CEWS is, a lot to deal with.
@MechanicalFrog Upon further review I now know the CEWS has ECM properties, thus I retract my previous statement.
Grendel J stands for Jungler, as it's made for ganking.
The Grendel C seems like it would be best used as an anti-infantry/light vehicle/aircraft build with cluster shot, perhaps in a counter-insurgency role. The AMS can protect it from incoming inferno SRMs of the sort PBI likes to use against mechs while the ER medium laser lets it cut apart any vehicles disabled by the autocannon. Otherwise if you're running it with solid shot, it's like a really fast version of an Enforcer.
Also, on the MF I'd swap the machine guns for light machine guns, trading damage for range since they'd mostly be used for crit seeking.
It's like the Diamond Sharks tried to break the 40 ton curse by replacing them all with one mech, and made it a little heavier to do so. Halfassin speed, while only the Vulcan isn't echoed in these configurations and with Toads around why bother? The C config emulates a AC/10 Clint. I can't think of a SLDF or Succession War 40 or 45 that couldn't be duplicated with a really good movement profile here. Even if Clan Bean Counter couldn't figure out how to use it, and Tukk was an anti-marketing campaign, they made something worth buying. Most Clan mechs are over refined and made for dueling and competition, but this one is a mud and dust ready service weapon to the point I wouldn't feel gross driving.
40 tons is just a bad place to be...
The Grendel is one of the best Clan Medium mechs. But not for adaptablity as much as its basic layout. A speedy laser boat that can take a hit or two, the Grendel is the Clan version of a Wolfhound. That's a great basic design. the other main variants mainly swap the the LL for something different. A Clan LRM isn't bad, and the UAC-5 isn't bad either. The LBX- 10 though is too big for the frame, and not enough ammo to make it work. The later models are mainly the same, with the Grendel doing well it's allowed to shine as a gun bus.
Day one of patiently awaiting for you to bless me with a video on GM’s best product the Orion
Definitely in the next few months... can't say exactly when.
That C config is just painful. Imagine if they replaced that AMS with another ton of ammo and an ER Small Laser.
The AMS is a miss on this one.
The C config is very much a dud, but if you have to use it, employ it as a fast headhunter against vehicles. It'll turn VTOLs into skeet like no one's business and can motive-kill most vehicle types by fishing for mobility crits from side hits. The AMS will let you live long enough to get in the LRM minimum range or provide a modicum of protection against SRMs between 6 to 9 hexes, which makes those particular missile carriers very vulnerable to the speed and crit-fishing of the C.
Grendel is a very capable 'mech but its verrrry expensive in terms of BV, but it does pay it back, the config with the LB could be useful against vehicles but it is a bit rubbish otherwise, and your config is very good :)
Yeah it does have that Clan omni price tag which is hard to ignore.
My completely uneducated guess, the Grendel-C was used as missle-boat hunters. Call in locations of IS Archer/Catapults/etc during the invasion, neutralizing their fire with AMS as they close while a friendly breaches through the armor. Once close, open up with cluster rounds trying to detonate ammo bins. Or maybe in an anti-aircraft role?
The C configuration is far more useful when you face vehicles on the battlefield. Cluster shots are far more dangerous to tanks and if you are about to face a Hell Horse opponent the C configuration might be a prudent choice.
I mainly love the Grendel because I'm biased toward all 45 tonners, but I also love it because it's aggressively trying to stay mediocre. While there are some bad configs, the good ones are always a few tweaks from greatness. Though I'll need to play it more to be sure, it seems like in most cases it will perform well without standing out.
Side note: I think you could make a Grendel that works with an autocannon, though I still don't recommend it. The best I can do is merging the B and C configs by swapping the UAC5 for a LB-5X AC and switching one of the Medium Pulse Lasers for a ER Medium for another ton of ammo. It's still not that good, but I think it has a fighting chance.
A UAC/5 intimidating? Say it ain't so, Mr. Frog...
It's all a matter of perspective. Intimidating to a light mech? Sure.
Got to be honest,
I expected more pulse lasers on a jump 7 Clan build
When your parent gives you a subtle hint for better not forgetting your duties: th-cam.com/video/9TAl9_AIfbI/w-d-xo.html lol
Love me some Battletech . Major lore points in the pacific northwest , yes plz . Growing up when i heard twilight takes place in Washington best thing from here , I said no no Battletech is or the tom hanks movie lol. shout out to University Place and Gig Harbor . Go Vikings , Go Cougs
I suppose a Mongrel 'C' could provide close in AA or anti-vehicle work with cluster munitions for its LB-10X...
Maybe...
Ugh, My son's first Salvage Box mech. He knows how to use the mobility too, I've had a range of 5 and a TN of 14 against it with a Gauss Rifle.
Because it looks like a transformer
I like it, a solid and plucky generalist that is easy on the eyes (looks like a pocket Grizzly). For me, every configuration needs a little tweaking; I like a LPL in the RA, two ERML in the left, and an SRM-6 with artemis plus a ton of ammo in the RT; do with the remaining two tons what you will (ECM and a DHS maybe). I really don't see autocannons working on anything less than 50 tons in optimal builds, sub-optimally you work with what you've got right? #BTA3062. I've noticed you don't mention quirks, do most people not play with them?
next can we get some more forgotten or obsence clan mechs like first gen omnis?
For the b config i'd swap out the uac5 for a ERPPC and 2 double heat sinks to deal with the extra heat. (using the extra ton from dropping the uac5 and another for to replace the ammo.
the M config brings up a point on the Clan RAc the clan rac is the only clan weapon larger than it's IS counterpart, though it's the same weight and has more range so.
I'm sure we will at some point.
I know it obviously is taboo to ask in this community, but do you miss Blaine Lee Pardoe's contributions to Battletech? His writing always smacked of authentic knowledge of military concerns and logistics, as well as the human component of war. I still remember reading Exodus Road at age 10 and feeling like the stompy robots actually mattered.
Each author has their strengths and weaknesses. One of Pardoe's strengths was writing a really good mech battle.
@MechanicalFrog I still remember Pardoe discussing a Marauder from Star Captain Trent's perspective and, even though I didn't quite understand the massive technological advantage the Clans had, feeling like Marauders were still respected, ancient weapons of war. It left a huge impression on me as a kid and, as a result, playing Mechwarrior computer games as an adult, I still favor obsolete Marauders over anything else.
The RAC 2 is awesome for messing up an opponent’s paint job from the opposite side of the board.
pew pew pew
Love the little bugger but it's mostly too expensive for what you're getting it seems.
It can be a bit of an expense. This really underlines the need for a solid configuration.
the MF without any plasma weaponry? did minifrog make it on you?
Overall I was surprised the models did not try more of the close in barrage firepower with targeting computer with its speed and mobility to get in there. The micro laser model was closest seen but still lack of targeting computer in it.
Gotta keep you on your feet.
Plasma mechs when? 🧐👀👀
7/11/7 7.5 armor is
My favorite profile
Why the Grendel G Configuration, because light scout mechs must die with every trigger pull.
click, zap, vapor.
I love the mini, but the movement profile sends the BV of most of the configs waaaay too high for a mech with weight-limited firepower in my experience. If your group picks mapsheets before forces are made, it's a good unit to have in your toolbox for heavily forested maps or city fights where the jump movement makes a big difference, but since most groups *don't* plan scenarios like that it can be hard to justify based on cost alone.
Rare Frog W
Rare?!
I think you are using the M configuration backward. The laser is the primary weapon that needs to be utilised to upen some holes at range and then you use the RAC for ranged crit seeking without ever closing like the SRMs would usually require. I'd say that the LB 5-X would do a better job at that though.
The G configuration I'd suspect that this thing might just be a downgraded Society configuration, because if you replace the Watchdog CEWS with a Nova CEWS then the need to get in the light pulse laser range along with overall Grendel durability and target modifiers this thing would become quite a terror.
A variant with a plasma rifle that doesn't give the MF the warm and fuzzies?!
And a custom build that only includes obligatory JJs?!
I think that's about as close to "blink twice if in distress" that well ever get. 😆
I know there's been some bad sickness stuff going around in the PNW, you feeling ok?
I generally like clan mediums, more so even than the heavies.
Grendel though... A lot of the configs are a miss to me - way too many are trying to cram that AC where it just doesn't belong - those sacrifice too much weight for too little gain.
But energy/missile builds are fine. Not hilariously overgunned, fast, well protected for its size. Solid fast medium.
I strongly dislike the overall look of this Omnimech, but the stats are just too good to not field it. 🐺✌️
Just needs to work. Doesn't need to be pretty.
hey thanks for your yotube i buy alpha strike and 40th edition dd(^^
I should see a cut of that revenue, right? :P Welcome to the fray, Mechwarrior.
CDS for the win.
emotional support er small laser.... but she said it was big...
"It's a good size..."
@@MechanicalFrog Have you done the Solitaire yet?
The who?
Yes.
I don't think I love this one. The D variant is okay tho, I guess.
Oh no!
You know what I realized about the Grendel? This thing sucks as an omnimech. The Prime is decent and flexible but almost every other configuration has glaring issues. It would be less embarrassing as some kind of IIC.
The official configurations are... somewhat lackluster. Trying to cram an autocannon onto it is the wrong path.
Drop AC arm, slap on laser arm. Pad heats sinks. Add a TC and laser insulation system...maybe AES on laser arms...
Maybe save some space for micros...
Now it's a party!
I think when the game makers were designing the Grendel, they made an effort to not make any of the configurations too good. Most configurations are only one or two tweaks away from being great. For example, you can easily upgrade the B into a better D by swapping the UAC5 for a ER PPC and 2 DHS. Or you can make the F better by dropping either a Plasma cannon or the ATM 6 for any combination of more ammo, some lasers, and heat sinks.
Not that I think this is a bad thing. I like that the Grendel is constantly trying to be average. I think it's a good and lore friendly way to ease new players into the mechlab, as they each probably can think of some small way to improve a Grendel Config that suits their playstyle.
Wiat the actual name is Grendel? I've only ever seen the Mongrel name used. Aso what even is a Grendel, what does it mean... #worldviewhsattered
Maybe someone can make a video that discusses the mech.
@@MechanicalFrog Oh that would be so useful. Do you know where I could find someone like that?
I feel it is important to appreciate the proper grammatical use of the words "less" and "fewer."
On a Battletech note, autocannons are bad, and it upsets me how bad they are. Someone needs to fix this.
On a video note, I'm not sure what you changed, but the mech stats were much easier to see and read, even on my phone. Gj.
The use of less and fewer is a bit of a pet peeve for me.
I love the Grendel because its an ugly piece of junk that should not be.
I gotta be honest. I do NOT love the Grendel. It's just not a pretty mech and it's loadouts are quite meh compared to its peers.
Well, they can't all be winners, I suppose.
That's fair. The Grendel is a solid foundation, but shows that just because you can do something, doesn't mean you should.
And yeah, it's looks are an acquired taste. It's gotten better with time, but it's still a bit of a mess. I do like how the big guns consistently end up in the right arm though, I think that's one thing it does right.