Balance between number of units and strength

Updated 28. January 2025 by Sören Spieckermann

BattleTech Alpha Strike: Finding the perfect balance between unit numbers and strength

BattleTech Alpha Strike is a fast-paced, tactically in-depth spin-off of the classic BattleTech tabletop. Players must make decisions that determine the fate of their army on the battlefield. A central question that determines every army planning is: Do I rely on a few but strong units or on a larger number of weaker units? The answer to the number of units depends on the game strategy, the mission and the composition of the enemy.

Few, but strong units

Strong units are characterized by high damage values, robust armour and advanced capabilities. They can single-handedly dominate a battle line and hold key positions or eliminate critical targets.

Advantages:

1. Penetrating power: Strong units can often eliminate weaker opponents with a targeted attack.
2. Robustness: Thanks to better armor and structure points, they last longer and are more difficult to take out.
3. Easier coordination: Fewer units mean less movement and planning, which makes administration easier.

Disadvantages:

1. Vulnerability when outnumbered: Strong units can be quickly overwhelmed by outnumbered opponents.
2. Costs: Strong units often take up a large part of the army budget, which can limit flexibility.
3. Target Priority: Enemies often focus their attacks on these units, as eliminating them has a major impact.
4. Flexibility: A small number of units can have a negative impact on flexibility with regard to the choice of strategy .

More units, but weaker

A larger number of units offers flexibility and tactical options. This strategy relies on mass and mobility to overwhelm the opponent.

Advantages:

1. Board Control: With more units, it is easier to control the board and secure mission objectives.
2. Flexibility: Different unit categories can fulfill different tasks.
3. Swarm attacks: A large number of attackers can overload and hold down even strong units of the enemy.
4. Compensation: The loss/destruction of a single unit has little effect on the tactical capabilities of the force as a whole.

Disadvantages:

1. Weakness in single duels: Weaker units often have difficulty fighting strong opponents directly.
2. Administrative effort: More units mean more movements and attacks, which makes planning more complex.
3. Fragility: Individual units can easily be knocked out, resulting in increased wear and tear.

The role of the army limit

Regardless of whether you prefer a few strong or many weaker units, in BattleTech Alpha Strike you usually have to adhere to a predefined army limit. This is defined by the so-called point values (PV), which determine the overall strength of the army. Within this limit, you can freely assemble your units, which ensures both strategic flexibility and equal opportunities between the players. The choice of units thus becomes a balancing act in which you have to weigh up efficiency, synergy and tactics.

In addition, the era in which the battle is set influences the choice of units. Different time periods in the BattleTech universe offer different technologies, mechs and equipment. In the Star League era, for example, highly developed mechs with advanced systems are available, while the successor wars are often characterized by simpler but more robust designs. These historical contexts should be incorporated into the army composition in order to remain both thematically and tactically coherent.

The role of the mission and the opponent

The decision between a few strong units or a large number of weaker units depends heavily on the mission . If the scenario requires mission objectives such as holding positions or conquering areas, multiple units may be advantageous. For direct confrontations or elimination objectives, strong units may be the better choice.

The type of opponent also influences the choice: if you are playing against an opponent with a large number of weaker units, flexibility and mobility are crucial. If you are up against a few well-armored mechs, your own strong units or targeted swarm attacks can be more effective.

The right mix makes the difference

In many cases, the key to success lies in a balanced combination. An army that offers both strong units and support from several smaller units can react flexibly to most situations. This balance of firepower and mobility is particularly successful in scenarios with mixed mission objectives.

Conclusion on the number of units

In BattleTech Alpha Strike, there is no ultimate answer to the question of the optimal number of units. Players must analyze the strengths and weaknesses of their list and adapt it to the requirements of the mission. Whether you go into battle with a few, stronger units or a larger number of weaker units depends on your strategy and playing style. The challenge and the fun lie in finding the right balance, making optimum use of the army limit and outwitting your opponent with clever decisions.

Underlying rules