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{{distinguish|text=the sequel of MechWarrior 4: Vengeance, ]}}
{{Infobox CVG
{{Short description|2002 video game}}
|title = ''Mechwarrior 4: Mercenaries''
{{Infobox video game
|image = ]
| title = Mechwarrior 4: Mercenaries
|developer = ]
| image = mwmercsbox.jpg
|publisher = ]
|designer = Cyberlore/FASA | developer = ]
]<br>Studio MekTek
|engine = N/A
| publisher = ]<br>Studio MekTek
|version = N/A
| producer = Jon Clark
|released = ]
| designer = David Fifield
|genre = ]
| programmer = Chris Tohline
|modes = ]<br />]
| artist = Seth Spaulding<br>Heinz Schuller
|ratings = ]: Teen (13+)<br />]: 11+
| composer = Heinz Schuller<br>Mark Duncan
|platforms = ], ]
| engine =
|media = ]
| series = '']''
|requirements = ] to ]
| platforms = ]
|input = Keyboard, mouse, joystick or other controller
| released = {{vgrelease|NA|November 8, 2002<ref>{{Cite web |date=2002-11-08 |title=MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries Invades Stores |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2002/11/08/mechwarrior-4-mercenaries-invades-stores |access-date=2023-05-22 |website=IGN |language=en}}</ref>|EU|November 15, 2002<ref>{{Cite news |date=2002-11-15 |title=What's New? |language=en-gb |work=Eurogamer.net |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/article-46991 |access-date=2023-05-22 |archive-date=2023-03-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230325011730/https://www.eurogamer.net/article-46991 |url-status=live }}</ref>}}
| genre = ]
| modes = ], ]
}} }}


'''''MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries''''' is a ] ] for ], released in 2002. It is a ] of '']'', based on the '']/]'' game universe.<ref>{{cite web |title=MechWarrior To Be Distributed Free On BattleTech.com |url=http://battletech.catalystgamelabs.com/2009/07/09/mechwarrior-to-be-distributed-free-on-battletech-com/ |publisher=Battletech |date=July 9, 2009 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120224032634/http://battletech.catalystgamelabs.com/2009/07/09/mechwarrior-to-be-distributed-free-on-battletech-com/ |archivedate=February 24, 2012 |url-status=dead |accessdate=December 30, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=Jeff Haynes |date=July 9, 2009 |title=MechWarrior 4 To Be Re-Released |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2009/07/09/mechwarrior-4-to-be-re-released |website=] |accessdate=December 30, 2017 |archive-date=May 11, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180511155024/http://www.ign.com/articles/2009/07/09/mechwarrior-4-to-be-re-released |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Free MW4 "Very Shortly" |url=http://www.bluesnews.com/s/101913/free-mw4-very-shortly |publisher=Blue's News |date=September 4, 2009 |accessdate=June 7, 2011 |archive-date=June 10, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110610163850/http://www.bluesnews.com/s/101913/free-mw4-very-shortly |url-status=live }}</ref> The game was developed by ]<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mechwarrior 4: MERCENARIES |url=http://www.cyberlore.com/mw4mercs/mw4mercs.html |access-date=2024-04-11 |website=www.cyberlore.com}}</ref> in tandem with ]. This studio would also be responsible for MechWarrior 4's previous expansion, ]<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mechwarrior 4 Expansion: Black Knight |url=http://www.cyberlore.com/mw4x.html |access-date=2024-04-11 |website=www.cyberlore.com}}</ref> - as well as both the ''InnerSphere'' and ''Clan'' Mech Packs.
'''''Mechwarrior 4: Mercenaries''''' is an action-based ] for the , based on the ] ] game universe. The original Battletech game is a turn-based board game where the player controls battles between mechs, large, powerful, piloted robot-like vehicles. Each video game in the extensive Mechwarrior series has gradually edged further from the Battletech ethos, in order to produce a dynamic real-time video game with fair and balanced elements. Mechwarrior 4: Mercenaries, released in 2002, is currently the last game in the MW4 series. In play, MW4: Mercs feels like a slowed-down ].


''Mechwarrior 4: Mercenaries'' and ''Clan and Inner Sphere'' expansions were re-released for free. By April 22, 2010 Microsoft had cleared its free release<ref>{{cite web |author=Richard Mitchell |date=April 22, 2010 |title=Mechwarrior 4 free release cleared by Microsoft |url=https://www.engadget.com/2010/04/22/mechwarrior-4-free-release-cleared-by-microsoft/ |publisher=] (]) |accessdate=December 30, 2017 |archive-date=November 2, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151102075841/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/22/mechwarrior-4-free-release-cleared-by-microsoft/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and on April 30, ''MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries'' was released to the general public by MekTek as a free download.<ref>{{cite web |author=Vince McMullin |date=April 30, 2010|title=Mechwarrior4 Free, the long awaited moment |url=http://www.mektekdev.com/site/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=101&Itemid=91 |publisher=Studio MekTek |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110714070216/http://www.mektekdev.com/site/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=101&Itemid=91 |archivedate=July 14, 2011 |url-status=dead |accessdate=December 30, 2017}}</ref> However, due to the massive influx of 100,000 downloads and web site accesses, MekTek.net and related services crashed.<ref>{{cite web |title=MechWarrior Is Back! |url=http://battletech.catalystgamelabs.com/2010/05/01/mechwarrior-is-back/ |publisher=Battletech |date=May 1, 2010 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120224044305/http://battletech.catalystgamelabs.com/2010/05/01/mechwarrior-is-back/ |archivedate=February 24, 2012 |url-status=dead |accessdate=December 30, 2017}}</ref> MekTek recovered the MekMatch match making service on May 1 and the forum was restored the next day.<ref>{{cite web |title=Battletech Free Update |url=http://battletech.catalystgamelabs.com/2010/05/01/mechwarrior-4-free-update/ |publisher=Battletech |date=May 1, 2010 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426040336/http://battletech.catalystgamelabs.com/2010/05/01/mechwarrior-4-free-update/ |archivedate=April 26, 2012 |url-status=dead |accessdate=December 30, 2017}}</ref>
Many of the comments on this page also apply to other games in the Mechwarrior series.


In the following years, ''MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries'' was no longer available free. MekTek expressed their intent to move away from the ''BattleTech'' franchise,<ref name="MekTekForums">{{cite web |title=Before posting on MechWarrior4 |url=http://www.mektek.net/forums/topic/208502-before-posting-on-mechwarrior4/ |publisher=Studio MekTek |date=January 22, 2013 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131027154119/http://www.mektek.net/forums/topic/208502-before-posting-on-mechwarrior4/ |archivedate=October 27, 2013 |url-status=dead}}</ref> and a new group interested in maintaining free versions appeared but encountered difficulties securing permission to continue offering the game as a free download.<ref name="MekTekForums"/>
==Basic story==


==Plot==
In the game, you, Spectre, are a mercenary battlemech pilot travelling throughout the ] ] universe during a confused civil war, earning cash and useful salvage for completing contracts for various factions. With this cash you can buy weapons, mechs, allies, and mech repairs. To add to the realism you have some choice in which missions you accept. In addition, how you perform every mission you accept has an impact on your timeline. For example, killing civilans and neutral targets results in infamy points- the more you have, the less likely you are to land safe jobs and more the more likely you are to be offered brutal missions. Also, you must choose how you balance your allegiance to the different sides of the war (Steiner vs. Davion).
In the game, the player takes the role of Spectre, a mercenary ] pilot travelling inside the fictional interstellar region of the ''BattleTech'' universe called the Inner Sphere during the FedCom Civil War (specifically during the time period from January 1, 3066 to late July 3067).


The player's mercenary company initially takes on localized threats in certain planets far from the civil war. As the player's team takes on more missions, the assignments get tougher; at one point, Spectre may challenge a Jade Falcon group led by Aisa Thastus, The Star Colonel, to a duel. Aisa Thastus will join the player's team as a bondsman if the Falcons are defeated in this mission. It is a beach-side battle that pits eight of Spectre's best against ten of hers. That mission can be substituted for a mission to attack the Falcons in a sneak attack where the battle is just as difficult. This direction leads to the death of Aisa instead of her joining the team.
==Game play==


Depending on how the player handled allegiance between House Steiner and House Davion, they would end up with one of two mission paths, with three different endings.
The ''Mechwarrior'' series is rather more of a ] than a pure reaction video game (like '']'') or a console game like '']''. A keyboard is essential in the game for the sheer number of controls these include:
*various weapons and weapon control options
*movement controls
*throttle and heat controls
*commands for your lancemates (allies).


'''Davion Ending:''' Spectre and three lancemates must run a gauntlet of multiple mechs, turrets and aircraft before a final battle with Nondi Steiner. The final battle consists of a courtyard containing three Longbow, and three Awesome fighting Peter's Victor-mech forces. Spectre must aid Peter in defeating these mechs (up to six depending on how fast Spectre's lance arrives and how well Peter does) before fighting Nondi. She rides a low-key Hauptmann and has four potent Daishi bodyguards. Instead of fashioning his position as leader, Spectre becomes Peter's personal guard for years to come.
Before fighting, decisions are necessary about which weapons to fit, armour options, engine options, cooling efficiency and so on. Favourite configurations can be saved, but are not always available in mission play (not all weapons are available at any particular time).


'''#1 Steiner Ending:''' The first option is on the planet Carse, where Spectre has the opportunity to fight Clan Wolf for a Trial of Position. The Trial is a 1-on-5 (one at a time) with the best warriors Wolf's Clan offers - Vulture, Thor, Mad Cat, Masakari, and Daishi. In winning, the Spectre will present the Khan with the location of Steiner and become part of Clan Wolf - where he would grow to be an elite Trial fighter.
On the field of play, the pilot has a complex ] that shows radar, location of targeted enemy, your weapons in range, ammunition remaining for each weapon, damage situation for your own, friendly and enemy units, and much more.


'''#2 Steiner Ending:''' This is the second option and is available at the same time as the Trial of possession. Steiner is in exile and Spectre can gain control of a full base worth millions of credits. As the two missions become available, Spectre's tactical officer, Castle, pleads the case for abandoning Katrina Steiner and the losing side of the war. Instead of undergoing the Trial of Position, Spectre elects to take a contract on New Canton to defend a base under attack by the ]. After repelling some 25 mechs and General Woo Kang Kwo, Spectre's unit takes the base for themselves.
Tactics and tactical issues include typical FPS issues, such as the 'Circle-of-Death' (]), sniping, camping, 'spawn-raping' (waiting for and then attacking an opponent as s/he just appears in the game, and is not yet ready to fight). The art to being a good player in this game is the understanding of tactics, not the speed of your reactions and as such can give the game extended life beyond just killing the enemy.


== Features == ==Gameplay==
The player is a pilot of a BattleMech or 'Mech, the iconic war machines in the ''BattleTech'' universe. ''Mercenaries'' has the player piloting a 'Mech and running a mercenary company at the same time. The company is sponsored by one of four mercenary outfits in the ''BattleTech'' universe—the Kell Hounds, Gray Death Legion, Northwind Highlanders, and Wolf's Dragoons. Each faction has their own special attributes, such as the Wolf's Dragoons being equipped with 'Mechs that have Clan technology.
===Game types===


In the campaign, the player controls up to two full four-man squads called lances. The other squad members can be issued commands such as attack or power down. The larger squad sizes allowed for larger battles, a unique addition to this iteration of the classic videogame franchise.
This mech piloting game also has tactical, technical decisions and resource management elements. There is a training mission, the main campaign missions, and access to most missions for 'instant action' play. Instant action can be mission-based, or wave-based. The 'instant action' mode is flexible but the interface is so slow to use that it puts off players.
''Mercenaries'' also has sophisticated online play options, with a good connection interface. It is relatively easy to host an online game if you wish. The single-player game includes 19 different maps. There is the single-player ability to command up to seven other mechs at one time (your 'lancemates').


Missions are played in various environments, from deserts to urban areas. Completing them plus special objectives helps the player earn more money to buy weapons and 'Mechs for his unit. The resource management extends to maintaining the 'Mechs and hiring new pilots with the requisite salaries. The game time will be measured in weeks.
===MechWarrior 4 vehicles===


The player has some control over which missions to accept and in what order. In addition, how each mission is performed affects the timeline, and the player's reputation is measured in terms of Nobility or Infamy points. For example, killing civilians and neutral targets results in infamy points, which in high numbers can limit the player to brutal and "unethical" missions. Also, the player must choose between loyalty to House Steiner or House Davion. This is important as allegiance will eventually affect available contracts and even influence the ending of the game.
The game revolves around the mechs, which have varying weights, roles and characteristics.


The game offers options to toggle unlimited ammunition and no heat buildup. In the 'Mech customization menu, the mercenary company's available Mechs can be upgraded with new weapons or equipment such as antimissile systems, extra armor, heatsinks, or ] pods. The configurations of each 'Mech can limit what weapons can be equipped, with penalties on weight by the ton and heat levels. Since 'Mechs tend to overheat (mostly from using large and powerful weapons while equipped with too few heat sinks, or by being hit with a few specialized heat-inducing weapons), the player has to equip a combination of high-heat energy weapons and low-heat-but-high-weight ballistic and missile weapons, which use up ammo, unlike energy weapons. It is possible for entire limbs to be blown off a 'Mech, resulting in loss of weapons or reduced movement. Destruction of the center torso or cockpit of a 'Mech, or of both legs, will result in the instant destruction of that 'Mech.
Mechwarrior mechs do not generally appear to be actual robots carrying loose weapons. The US-designed Mechwarrior Mechs are notably less anthropomorphic than the more cartoon-like Japanese ]-style mecha. All mechs in the game are user-drivable. The standard game has 8 light mechs, 7 medium mechs, 9 heavy mechs, and 12 assault mechs available - a total of 36 mechs.
Other (non-drivable) vehicles in the game include jets, helicopters and tanks. There are no quad (four-legged) mechs in the video version of the game.
A full version of MW4: Mercs with up-to-date Mektek patches (MP3.02a as of 5 June 2006) and both the Inner Sphere and Clan MechPak add-ons will have 109 different base-model mechs available. All of these mechs will be customisable in the game. With some effort and technical ability, the appearance and logos on your mech, can be customised to a further extent than the choices available in the game.


The Arena matches, which take place in the gaming planet of Solaris, has the player-character competing with a variety of enemy 'Mech pilots in "last-man standing" combat. If all other enemy 'Mechs are destroyed, the player wins the match and is rewarded money. Many of the opposing pilots have names and backstories, which are revealed by the arena announcer who provides constant real-time commentary on the matches. Arena battles are divided into four weight classes and take place in several different arenas. After winning all of the matches in each weight class, the player advances to the championship round, which is open to all weight classes. Competing in them can boost the player's reputation.
===MW4: Mercenaries Online===


==Reception==
Online play is an important part of ''MW4: Mercenaries'', with servers hosting up to 24 players and bots at a time. ''MW4'' has a built in chat function, but it is very inconvenient to type comments while playing. In some sophisticated online ''MW4'' games, voice communications systems such as Teamspeak 2 are used. Originally the 'Zonestats' online ranking system recorded the victories and other statistics of other players, but it is now defunct. It is possible to play ''MW4:Mercs'' online with a dial-up internet connection. ''MW4'' is also enjoyable played on a local LAN network. It is relatively easy to set up, with or without a dedicated server.
{{Video game reviews

| MC = 83/100<ref name="MC">{{cite web |title=MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries for PC Reviews |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/mechwarrior-4-mercenaries/critic-reviews/?platform=pc |website=] |accessdate=June 14, 2016 |archive-date=August 17, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160817050752/http://www.metacritic.com/game/pc/mechwarrior-4-mercenaries |url-status=live }}</ref>
]
| CGW = {{Rating|4.5|5}}<ref>{{cite magazine |author=George Jones |title=MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries |url=http://www.cgwmuseum.org/galleries/issues/cgw_223.pdf |magazine=] |issue=223 |date=February 2003 |page=86 |accessdate=December 30, 2017 |archive-date=June 18, 2004 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040618182555/http://www.computergaming.com/article2/0,2053,1520755,00.asp |url-status=live }}</ref>

| GI = 9.5/10<ref>{{cite magazine |title=MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries |magazine=] |issue=117 |date=January 2003 |page=119}}</ref>
== Technical issues and support ==
| GSpot = 7.8/10<ref>{{cite web |author=Bruce Grey |date=November 18, 2002 |title=MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries Review |url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/mechwarrior-4-mercenaries/1900-2897849/ |website=] |accessdate=December 30, 2017 |archive-date=April 13, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190413213139/https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/mechwarrior-4-mercenaries/1900-2897849/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
===System requirements===
| GSpy = {{Rating|3.5|5}}<ref>{{cite web |author=Bernard Dy |date=December 2, 2002 |title=GameSpy: MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries |url=http://pc.gamespy.com/pc/mechwarrior-4-mercenaries/565591p1.html |publisher=] |accessdate=December 30, 2017 |archive-date=March 10, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160310141651/http://pc.gamespy.com/pc/mechwarrior-4-mercenaries/565591p1.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

| GameZone = 9/10<ref>{{cite web |author=Kevin "BIFF" Giacobbi |date=November 12, 2002 |title=MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries - PC - Review |url=https://www.gamezone.com/reviews/mechwarrior_4_mercenaries_pc_review/ |publisher=GameZone |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081003003505/http://pc.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r20489.htm |archivedate=October 3, 2008 |url-status=live |accessdate=December 30, 2017}}</ref>
A typical installation of this game takes up more than one gigabyte (1 Gb) of space on a PC hard drive, although some of this can be reduced by tricks such as substituting the built-in movies for short blank ] files. The numerous additional unofficial add-ons and maps necessary for much online play will take up hundreds more megabytes. The game can be played (with low graphics settings) acceptably on a ] PC with a speed of 500] or more, if the graphics card has reasonable (for 2003) 3D processing power. A 16] video card and 500MB hard disc space is enough for a minimum install. The game runs on a PC running ] or a more recent version, with ] 8.1 graphic support (supplied on the CD).
| IGN = 9.1/10<ref>{{cite web |author=Ivan Sulic |date=November 8, 2002 |title=MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries Review |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2002/11/08/mechwarrior-4-mercenaries-review |website=IGN |accessdate=December 30, 2017 |archive-date=June 19, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619035810/http://www.ign.com/articles/2002/11/08/mechwarrior-4-mercenaries-review |url-status=live }}</ref>

| PCGUK = 83%<ref>{{cite magazine |title=MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries |magazine=] |date=January 2003}}</ref>
===Microsoft - the publisher of Mechwarrior 4===
| PCGUS = 85%<ref>{{cite magazine |title=MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries |magazine=] |date=January 2003 |page=80}}</ref>

| PCZone = 82%<ref>{{cite magazine |title=PC Review: MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries |magazine=] |year=2003}}</ref>
''MW4 Mercenaries'' was developed by Cyberlore Studios Inc. in conjunction with Microsoft's FASA, the Microsoft game studio. Microsoft, the publishers of ''Mechwarrior 4'' (but not earlier versions of the game) have been seriously criticised for lack of support, e.g. for not producing sufficient ] for bugs in the game, for problems with the game interface (e.g. set-up menus for "instant action" games is not at all "instant"), and for overcharging for the add-on mecha in the two add-on MechPak CDs, which fans could have designed for themselves, if the development tools had been made available. Finally, some argue that ''Mercenaries'' is merely a glorified expansion pack, and not a new game.
| XPlay = {{Rating|3|5}}<ref>{{cite web |author=Andrew S. Bub |date=December 13, 2002 |title='MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries' (PC) Review |url=http://www.techtv.com/extendedplay/reviews/story/0,24330,3410434,00.html |publisher=] |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20021217024344/http://www.techtv.com/extendedplay/reviews/story/0,24330,3410434,00.html |archivedate=December 17, 2002 |url-status=dead |accessdate=December 30, 2017}}</ref>

}}
Microsoft have not announced any intention of developing a sequel to ''Mercenaries''. No other mod team or software publisher can do so while Microsoft hold the rights to the game, although there is wide interest in doing so. There is a slight chance that Microsoft may release the full source code as they have done for '']''.

===MW4 mods===

Many recent video games are sold with development tools as standard to encourage modification (or ]) by users. This often extends the popularity of the game. Some customised modes of play can become more popular than the original game (as '']'' became more widely played than '']'', the game it is based on). Despite the lack of supplied development tools, ''Mercenaries'' has been modded extensively. Two of the main groups (mod teams) customising the game are "Mektek" and "NBT". Many teams play in organised leagues and have their own websites. League play often requires a further download of (free) software to make your installation of MW4 compliant to the league rules.

===Additional maps and missions===

A add-on single-player or multiplayer mission will be playable after downloading and installing only if the relevant map is also in the map directory of your MW4: Mercs installation. A map may be one from another version of MechWarrior 4, or one created by another user or mod team.

===MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries product support and patches===

Microsoft have been widely criticised for issuing only one official patch for ''Mercenaries'', the "PR1 patch", although after this patch there still remained several notable bugs in the game.
Independent support groups Mektek and NBT have issued further patches and enhancement for the ''MechWarrior 4'' series of games.

In what has been seen by some players as a betrayal and lack of support of their product, Microsoft have been further criticised for not maintaining the in-game "Zonecom" master server, which has disappeared, although it is essential for locating servers for online play. Mektek have recently released a Java-based patch that replaces the "Zonecom" server with their own community master server, so that players can still locate games to play online.

Microsoft have also dropped ''Mechwarrior'' game hosting from the Microsoft Network (MSN) GameZone server, despite the large player base, and the fact that it is a game that they produced.

Another common complaint is that Microsoft did not support peripherals such as their own Game-Voice and dual controllers for the ''MechWarrior 4'' series.

== Popular topics on MW4 forums ==
===Bugs in the game===

It is generally conceded that some level of ] is likely in such a large, complex game.
Well-known bugs in unpatched versions of the game include jump-jet bugs, ] bugs, and various damage bugs, where a weapon is seen to hit an enemy successfully, but no damage results. Patches issued to balance gameplay, restrict online ]ing and ] and fix bugs often introduce other bugs at the same time, but they are generally less serious than the original problem.

===Installation and other technical difficulties===

The game can be difficult to install and patch but a lot of help is available in various ''MW4:Mercs'' forums.

===Degree of fidelity of the game to the Battletech Universe===

The demands of good video game-play, realism and the rules of the traditional Battletech Universe all compete with each other in the game design.

===Degree of real-world physics and other ] questions===

Concerns about these issues include:
*The mechs move at an unrealistic speed
*Their weight doesn't match their size (compare with a real-life main battle tank at 60+ metric tonnes)
*Conversely, it can be said that the mechs are incorrectly scaled.

===Music to play while playing.===

The consensus seems to be for dramatic music such as ], heavy ], hard-core ] or ]ian-style ], perhaps inspired by the epic ] scale of the action and scenario in the game.The music that comes with the game is of a good standard.

=== and behaviour===

The artificial intelligence in the game has come on since early games, but it is generally thought that it still has a long way to go. Even on the highest-level settings, a computer-controlled mech has set behaviours that make it no match for the average human pilot.

===Tactics and enforced tactical restrictions desirable for online play===
===Desirable new weapons===
== Common requests on Mechwarrior 5 wishlists ==

*] function.
*Meleé weapons.
*Better, more varied destruction animations for mechs.
*Return of specific old weapons from earlier editions of Mechwarrior.
*Mech ability to sidestep.
*More destroyable environment.
*More environmental hazards.
*Return of other features from earlier versions of Mechwarrior, e.g.: AMS sound-effects.
*Return of favourite mechs from earlier versions of Mechwarrior.
*New weapon types.
*More specific mech damage graphics
*Jump-jets to be made available to all mechs.
*Further distance visibility.
*Better artificial intelligence for computer-controlled opponents and lancemates.

There are many more common wishes for Mechwarrior 5. Many popular wishes for additional features are contradictory to other wishes or would obviously unbalance the game.

Other common wishes are contrary to the spirit of the game, while still others would either take the game very far in the direction of a reaction-based arcade game, or would restrict the game by forcing it to conform too much to the style of the table-top game.

== Mechwarrior players ==

Players are very loyal to the ''Mechwarrior'' series of video games, and many have played the game from ''Mechwarrior 2'' onwards. Because of the longevity of the MW series and the complexity of game-play, players tend to be more mature than players of newer games. Forums are generally helpful, and trash-talking is at a noticeably lower level than usual for such boards. An experienced player can recognise any one of 50 or 60 mechs at first sight.

The game developers have done a reasonable job of balancing the speed, acceleration, weight, armament, armour and accessories of the various mechs, but even so, some mechs are definitely more popular than others, especially online.

*Popular standard mechs in the single-player game include the Uziel and Black Knight.
*Popular add-on mechs include the Cauldron-Born and the Kodiak
*Popular weapons in MW4 include AC10s (autocannon)

The controls of ''MW4'' are very complex. In this it resembles ''Defender'', a classic side-scrolling arcade game from the early 1980's, that was notoriously difficult to learn to control. In addition to the technical issues, this might limit the game's appeal to the casual console gamer. Paradoxically, the game can be completed in a very few days once the controls have been mastered.

The issues are that the BT board-game has only imaginary physics that are limited by credulity of the player, while the equally imaginary physics in ''MW4'' have to satisfy those limits, and in addition help contribute to a balanced real-time game. Much time and energy is expended in various Mechwarrior 4 forums arguing about issues that would only be pertinent if the mechs were real, existing vehicles, usually without reflection on the fact that back-story is not necessarily connected to the requirements of game balance.

For example: 'If mech jump-jets are powered by venting the mech's 'plasma reactor' engine, then how come it leads to a rise in heat, rather than heat-levels falling?' (Heat control is an important area in ''MW4'').

Or: 'Given the shots-per-ton of gauss rifle ammunition, one shot is so heavy it should knock a mech over. The slugs should also travel at the speed of light...'

===Mechwarrior slang===

The complexity of the game has generated many ] specific to the ''Mechwarrior 4'' game.

===Buying the game===

''MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries'' was released in November 2002. It still has relatively high popularity and online activity for its age. Given the speed of development of games, and their relatively short shelf-life, at the time of writing (5 June 2006), the best way to obtain a copy of ''MW4: Mercs'' is in the second-hand market. Copies are often downloaded from peer-to-peer networks, but even after this time, this is an offence of infringement of copyright and will be so until 2097 in the USA and 2077 in most EU countries.

== External links ==
===MW4 forums===

* &mdash; Extensive MW4 forums from the well-known MW4 mod team. Their goals are to make the game easier to play for those who still have not mastered it after 5 years of playing. Although their mods are widely accepted and praised by the general community, many of the better players consider their mods unbalanced and have accused Mektek of ruining the game by catering to the wants and needs of lesser skilled players.
*
* &mdash;
Clickable for different game versions
* &mdash; Mektek mod team and battle league. Regarded as being relatively conformist to the original Battletech concepts and scenarios.
*
*
* &mdash; Includes PR1 patch, desktop wallpapers, 120Mb trial version.
*
* &mdash; Excellent Mechreg download page that includes a ].
*&mdash; The founder Neuromancer recently admitted to tax fraud, when donation money from players were spent for personal benefit and not declared as taxable income.
* &mdash; Microsoft games developer's Mechwarrior 4 Mercenaries page
* &mdash; Includes gamesets, maps, models, as well as novels and background books and more. There are also many websites dedicated to the Battletech board-game.
*
*
*
* &mdash; Many screenshots, but non-graphic, non-ad version available at the bottom of the page
*
*
* &mdash; Not very active now, but past posts interesting.
*
*
*Movies/]
Mechwarrior games have short intro movie animations on disc/when installed.
*
*
*Mechwarrior short movie on the
The movie is relatively long, and also powerful and poignant. It may possibly be from a MW4-series game disc.

== See also ==


''Mercenaries'' received "favorable" reviews according to the ] website ].<ref name="MC"/> ''GameSpot'' nominated the game for its annual "Best Sci-Fi Simulation Game on PC" award, which went to '']''.<ref name=bestworst2002>{{cite web | archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20030207155400/http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2002/ | url=http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2002/ | title=''GameSpot''{{'}}s Best and Worst of 2002 | author=''GameSpot'' Staff | date=December 30, 2002 | work=] | archivedate=February 7, 2003 | url-status=dead }}</ref> During the ], ''Mercenaries'' received a nomination for "]" by the ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.interactive.org/games/video_game_details.asp?idAward=2003&idGame=466 |title=D.I.C.E. Awards By Video Game Details MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries |publisher=] |website=interactive.org |access-date=1 August 2023}}</ref>
*]
*] &mdash; Very fast classic Japanese arcade-style mecha games by Sega.
*]
*]
*] &mdash; Classic side-scrolling arcade game from the early '80s.


{{clear}}
===The Mechwarrior video-game series===


==References==
*First version Mechwarrior is available for download
{{Reflist}}
(] is recommended for easy log-in.)
*] &mdash; Dos-based game, still well-remembered
*] &mdash; Earlier game in series, often claimed to be a better game than the MW4 series, but notoriously bug-ridden.
*] &mdash; Preceding game to MW4: Mercs


===Add-ons=== ==External links==
* {{official website|https://web.archive.org/web/20021029135555/http://www.microsoft.com/games/mw4mercs/}} (archived)
*MechWarrior 4: Black Knight Expansion Pack. For MW4: Vengeance
* {{MobyGames|id=/windows/mechwarrior-4-mercenaries}}
*MechWarrior 4: Inner Sphere Mech Pak. Additional IS Mechs
* at ]
*MechWarrior 4: Clan Mech Pak. Additional Clan Mechs


{{Cyberlore}}
===Other related games===
{{MechWarrior series}}


]
*] &mdash; (Microsoft Battletech-based real-time strategy game). Regarded by many players as enjoyable, but seriously flawed.
]
*] &mdash; Activision mech sim game from 1999
]
*] &mdash;Mech combat and strategy sim series.
]
*Mechwars (Total Annihilation). Mech strategy game.
]
*] &mdash; Free online mech strategy game.
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]

Latest revision as of 17:10, 7 December 2024

Not to be confused with the sequel of MechWarrior 4: Vengeance, MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries. 2002 video game 2002 video game
Mechwarrior 4: Mercenaries
Developer(s)Cyberlore FASA Studio
Studio MekTek
Publisher(s)Microsoft Game Studios
Studio MekTek
Producer(s)Jon Clark
Designer(s)David Fifield
Programmer(s)Chris Tohline
Artist(s)Seth Spaulding
Heinz Schuller
Composer(s)Heinz Schuller
Mark Duncan
SeriesMechWarrior
Platform(s)Microsoft Windows
Release
  • NA: November 8, 2002
  • EU: November 15, 2002
Genre(s)Vehicle simulation
Mode(s)Single-player, multiplayer

MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries is a vehicle simulation video game for Microsoft Windows, released in 2002. It is a standalone expansion of MechWarrior 4: Vengeance, based on the BattleTech/MechWarrior game universe. The game was developed by Cyberlore in tandem with FASA Studio. This studio would also be responsible for MechWarrior 4's previous expansion, Black Knight - as well as both the InnerSphere and Clan Mech Packs.

Mechwarrior 4: Mercenaries and Clan and Inner Sphere expansions were re-released for free. By April 22, 2010 Microsoft had cleared its free release and on April 30, MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries was released to the general public by MekTek as a free download. However, due to the massive influx of 100,000 downloads and web site accesses, MekTek.net and related services crashed. MekTek recovered the MekMatch match making service on May 1 and the forum was restored the next day.

In the following years, MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries was no longer available free. MekTek expressed their intent to move away from the BattleTech franchise, and a new group interested in maintaining free versions appeared but encountered difficulties securing permission to continue offering the game as a free download.

Plot

In the game, the player takes the role of Spectre, a mercenary BattleMech pilot travelling inside the fictional interstellar region of the BattleTech universe called the Inner Sphere during the FedCom Civil War (specifically during the time period from January 1, 3066 to late July 3067).

The player's mercenary company initially takes on localized threats in certain planets far from the civil war. As the player's team takes on more missions, the assignments get tougher; at one point, Spectre may challenge a Jade Falcon group led by Aisa Thastus, The Star Colonel, to a duel. Aisa Thastus will join the player's team as a bondsman if the Falcons are defeated in this mission. It is a beach-side battle that pits eight of Spectre's best against ten of hers. That mission can be substituted for a mission to attack the Falcons in a sneak attack where the battle is just as difficult. This direction leads to the death of Aisa instead of her joining the team.

Depending on how the player handled allegiance between House Steiner and House Davion, they would end up with one of two mission paths, with three different endings.

Davion Ending: Spectre and three lancemates must run a gauntlet of multiple mechs, turrets and aircraft before a final battle with Nondi Steiner. The final battle consists of a courtyard containing three Longbow, and three Awesome fighting Peter's Victor-mech forces. Spectre must aid Peter in defeating these mechs (up to six depending on how fast Spectre's lance arrives and how well Peter does) before fighting Nondi. She rides a low-key Hauptmann and has four potent Daishi bodyguards. Instead of fashioning his position as leader, Spectre becomes Peter's personal guard for years to come.

#1 Steiner Ending: The first option is on the planet Carse, where Spectre has the opportunity to fight Clan Wolf for a Trial of Position. The Trial is a 1-on-5 (one at a time) with the best warriors Wolf's Clan offers - Vulture, Thor, Mad Cat, Masakari, and Daishi. In winning, the Spectre will present the Khan with the location of Steiner and become part of Clan Wolf - where he would grow to be an elite Trial fighter.

#2 Steiner Ending: This is the second option and is available at the same time as the Trial of possession. Steiner is in exile and Spectre can gain control of a full base worth millions of credits. As the two missions become available, Spectre's tactical officer, Castle, pleads the case for abandoning Katrina Steiner and the losing side of the war. Instead of undergoing the Trial of Position, Spectre elects to take a contract on New Canton to defend a base under attack by the Capellan Confederation. After repelling some 25 mechs and General Woo Kang Kwo, Spectre's unit takes the base for themselves.

Gameplay

The player is a pilot of a BattleMech or 'Mech, the iconic war machines in the BattleTech universe. Mercenaries has the player piloting a 'Mech and running a mercenary company at the same time. The company is sponsored by one of four mercenary outfits in the BattleTech universe—the Kell Hounds, Gray Death Legion, Northwind Highlanders, and Wolf's Dragoons. Each faction has their own special attributes, such as the Wolf's Dragoons being equipped with 'Mechs that have Clan technology.

In the campaign, the player controls up to two full four-man squads called lances. The other squad members can be issued commands such as attack or power down. The larger squad sizes allowed for larger battles, a unique addition to this iteration of the classic videogame franchise.

Missions are played in various environments, from deserts to urban areas. Completing them plus special objectives helps the player earn more money to buy weapons and 'Mechs for his unit. The resource management extends to maintaining the 'Mechs and hiring new pilots with the requisite salaries. The game time will be measured in weeks.

The player has some control over which missions to accept and in what order. In addition, how each mission is performed affects the timeline, and the player's reputation is measured in terms of Nobility or Infamy points. For example, killing civilians and neutral targets results in infamy points, which in high numbers can limit the player to brutal and "unethical" missions. Also, the player must choose between loyalty to House Steiner or House Davion. This is important as allegiance will eventually affect available contracts and even influence the ending of the game.

The game offers options to toggle unlimited ammunition and no heat buildup. In the 'Mech customization menu, the mercenary company's available Mechs can be upgraded with new weapons or equipment such as antimissile systems, extra armor, heatsinks, or ECM jammer pods. The configurations of each 'Mech can limit what weapons can be equipped, with penalties on weight by the ton and heat levels. Since 'Mechs tend to overheat (mostly from using large and powerful weapons while equipped with too few heat sinks, or by being hit with a few specialized heat-inducing weapons), the player has to equip a combination of high-heat energy weapons and low-heat-but-high-weight ballistic and missile weapons, which use up ammo, unlike energy weapons. It is possible for entire limbs to be blown off a 'Mech, resulting in loss of weapons or reduced movement. Destruction of the center torso or cockpit of a 'Mech, or of both legs, will result in the instant destruction of that 'Mech.

The Arena matches, which take place in the gaming planet of Solaris, has the player-character competing with a variety of enemy 'Mech pilots in "last-man standing" combat. If all other enemy 'Mechs are destroyed, the player wins the match and is rewarded money. Many of the opposing pilots have names and backstories, which are revealed by the arena announcer who provides constant real-time commentary on the matches. Arena battles are divided into four weight classes and take place in several different arenas. After winning all of the matches in each weight class, the player advances to the championship round, which is open to all weight classes. Competing in them can boost the player's reputation.

Reception

Reception
Aggregate score
AggregatorScore
Metacritic83/100
Review scores
PublicationScore
Computer Gaming World
Game Informer9.5/10
GameSpot7.8/10
GameSpy
GameZone9/10
IGN9.1/10
PC Gamer (UK)83%
PC Gamer (US)85%
PC Zone82%
X-Play

Mercenaries received "favorable" reviews according to the review aggregation website Metacritic. GameSpot nominated the game for its annual "Best Sci-Fi Simulation Game on PC" award, which went to Star Trek: Bridge Commander. During the 6th Annual Interactive Achievement Awards, Mercenaries received a nomination for "Computer Simulation Game of the Year" by the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences.

References

  1. "What's New?". Eurogamer.net. 2002-11-15. Archived from the original on 2023-03-25. Retrieved 2023-05-22.
  2. "MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries Invades Stores". IGN. 2002-11-08. Retrieved 2023-05-22.
  3. "MechWarrior To Be Distributed Free On BattleTech.com". Battletech. July 9, 2009. Archived from the original on February 24, 2012. Retrieved December 30, 2017.
  4. Jeff Haynes (July 9, 2009). "MechWarrior 4 To Be Re-Released". IGN. Archived from the original on May 11, 2018. Retrieved December 30, 2017.
  5. "Free MW4 "Very Shortly"". Blue's News. September 4, 2009. Archived from the original on June 10, 2011. Retrieved June 7, 2011.
  6. "Mechwarrior 4: MERCENARIES". www.cyberlore.com. Retrieved 2024-04-11.
  7. "Mechwarrior 4 Expansion: Black Knight". www.cyberlore.com. Retrieved 2024-04-11.
  8. Richard Mitchell (April 22, 2010). "Mechwarrior 4 free release cleared by Microsoft". Engadget (Joystiq). Archived from the original on November 2, 2015. Retrieved December 30, 2017.
  9. Vince McMullin (April 30, 2010). "Mechwarrior4 Free, the long awaited moment". Studio MekTek. Archived from the original on July 14, 2011. Retrieved December 30, 2017.
  10. "MechWarrior Is Back!". Battletech. May 1, 2010. Archived from the original on February 24, 2012. Retrieved December 30, 2017.
  11. "Battletech Free Update". Battletech. May 1, 2010. Archived from the original on April 26, 2012. Retrieved December 30, 2017.
  12. ^ "Before posting on MechWarrior4". Studio MekTek. January 22, 2013. Archived from the original on October 27, 2013.
  13. ^ "MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries for PC Reviews". Metacritic. Archived from the original on August 17, 2016. Retrieved June 14, 2016.
  14. George Jones (February 2003). "MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries" (PDF). Computer Gaming World. No. 223. p. 86. Archived from the original on June 18, 2004. Retrieved December 30, 2017.
  15. "MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries". Game Informer. No. 117. January 2003. p. 119.
  16. Bruce Grey (November 18, 2002). "MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries Review". GameSpot. Archived from the original on April 13, 2019. Retrieved December 30, 2017.
  17. Bernard Dy (December 2, 2002). "GameSpy: MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries". GameSpy. Archived from the original on March 10, 2016. Retrieved December 30, 2017.
  18. Kevin "BIFF" Giacobbi (November 12, 2002). "MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries - PC - Review". GameZone. Archived from the original on October 3, 2008. Retrieved December 30, 2017.
  19. Ivan Sulic (November 8, 2002). "MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries Review". IGN. Archived from the original on June 19, 2018. Retrieved December 30, 2017.
  20. "MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries". PC Gamer UK. January 2003.
  21. "MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries". PC Gamer. January 2003. p. 80.
  22. "PC Review: MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries". PC Zone. 2003.
  23. Andrew S. Bub (December 13, 2002). "'MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries' (PC) Review". X-Play. Archived from the original on December 17, 2002. Retrieved December 30, 2017.
  24. GameSpot Staff (December 30, 2002). "GameSpot's Best and Worst of 2002". GameSpot. Archived from the original on February 7, 2003.
  25. "D.I.C.E. Awards By Video Game Details MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries". interactive.org. Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences. Retrieved 1 August 2023.

External links

Cyberlore Studios
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Supplements
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