Mech Warrior 4: Mercenaries - Gameplay

Gameplay

Mechwarrior 4: Mercenaries is first-person mecha simulation game, with the player piloting a Mech in each mission. Mechs are armored and fitted with various projectile and energy weapons, and engage in combat with other Mechs as well as traditional military vehicles such as tanks and helicopters, and occasional weapon emplacements. During combat, a Mech's weapons and critical components can be damaged, and it is even possible for entire limbs to be blown off a Mech.

Since the player is in charge of a mercenary unit, he or she has limited control over mission selection, and is paid based on mission success. Some missions have bonus objectives which will reward the player with additional money if completed. Money can be used to hire new squad mates and purchase vehicles, weapons, and equipment, as well as repair damage to the player's current Mechs.

Mech customization is a major aspect of gameplay. The player has significant control over the configuration of each of his or her Mechs, from the type and amount of armor used to various internal components, and all of the Mech's weaponry and ammunition. In the campaign, additional parts, weapons, and ammunition are acquired through the missions, from captured supplies and salvaged enemy Mechs, and the player can purchase additional Mechs, weaponry, and equipment from the market.

In the campaign, the player controls up to seven squadmates, with the ability to issue basic orders such as attack and move.

The Arena matches are a unique feature brought back from MechWarrior 2: Mercenaries. In an arena match, the player competes 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. If the player wins all of the matches in each weight class, he or she advances to the championship round, which is open to all weight classes.