Gameplay
BattleTech is a turn-based, multiplayer game, typically played on a map divided into hexagonal grids with figurines or counters representing military units. Paper record sheets provide detailed information about each unit, including its armament, armor and equipment, and are used to track damage, heat buildup, ammunition and various other data. Players use two six-sided dice to determine variable results, such as whether a shot strikes its target and the location it hits.
Of the units represented in the game, the most common are BattleMechs known as 'Mechs', large, semi-humanoid fighting machines controlled by human pilots. While pre-designed 'Mechs, vehicles and other military units are provided with the game, a complex system of design rules allows players to create their own custom units even in the introductory boxed set. This engineering facet of the game has remained enduringly popular with players and may explain BattleTech's longevity.
Read more about this topic: Classic BattleTech