Big, big fan of the setting, but the 2d6 core mechanic isn't my favorite thing in the world. On the plus side it's relatively easy to pick up and learn and if you DO happen to have some Battletech minis around the system definitely supports it.

On the down side, the mech combat in particular is a streamlined version of the miniatures tabletop game which while functional for me personally sort of misses the point. Guys, if I wanted to play a streamlined game of Battletech, I'd play Alpha Strike. You make that product already.

As a fan of Shadowrun Anarchy, I hoped to see the same work on MechWarrior. However enven if I have the simple system, the pre generated characters, the synopsis and a good mech catalog I'm still wondering why the authors chose to bring so much specific rules. I can understand it needed some DNA from the previous games but the mix is not well done. So I think the game is still playable, especially if you're a Battletech fan, but i won't play it as the mixture narrative+simulationnism is not very well made. In order to finish with a positive thing I really appreciated all the characters in the book. And it's really easy to read.

I've played Mechwarrior since 1st ed and really enjoy this entry. The rules are simple and allow a great deal of flexibility in character creation. You can create any type of character from green to elite with little difficulty, and it wouldn't take much effort to fold in merits and materials from prior editions (aka, if you want to give a character a Land Grant, etc.). Vehicle conversion is simple and rules are provided for both narrative and traditional play (aka, you can play it with one GM and a group of players like any traditional RPG). Rules are definitely light, but it's not hard to add crunch. I use the rules from MW2 for money/equipment purchasing and conversion of additional gear. Note that the game definitely assumes that you have prior knowledge of the Battletech universe with minimal background material, and detail on pieces of weaponry/gear, but that is far from a bar to entry with the sheer amount of material available out there. Rules are provided for both the 3025 and Clan eras, with easy conversions for earlier or later periods. This is a great entry into the Battletech universe and I hope it gets the support it deserves.