MechForce Germany: The Last Battalion – A home for BattleTech fans

When giant battle robots dominate the battlefield and the luck of the dice decides the fate of the Inner Sphere, then we are in the middle of the BattleTech universe. But where do MechWarriors meet in Germany to fight their battles not just at the kitchen table at home, but in an organized league? The answer has been for over 30 years: MechForce Germany.

In this article, we take a look at this traditional club, its eventful history and why every BattleTech fan – from complete beginners to elite veterans – should know this name.

A look back: the eventful history of MechForce

The name “MechForce” has an almost legendary ring to it in the community. Originally launched in the early 90s by BattleTech inventor FASA, these organizations were intended to function as official fan umbrella organizations worldwide.

MechForce Germany officially started on May 27, 1993, when it was still a GbR and official licensee, but grew rapidly to over 2,000 members. It was so successful that, ironically, it failed due to its own size and legal structures, which led to the end of the first era at the end of 1995.

Turbulent years followed, with new foundations and internal friction, until today’s MechForce Germany e. V. was founded at the end of 1997. It is something special: while the MechForce organizations in the USA (North America) and Great Britain (UK) are long gone, the German section has survived. Today it is the only MechForce still in existence worldwide – a truly unique organization, run purely by fans for fans.

Since a reform in 2021, the association has experienced a real renaissance: membership numbers are rising, structures have been modernized and activity is higher than ever.

What does the association actually do?

MechForce Germany is more than just a regulars’ table. It is the driving force behind organized play in Germany. Here are the core activities:

• Tournaments & Championships: The association organizes the German BattleTech Championship (DBTM) and often also the European BattleTech Championship (EBTC). This is where the best strategists on the continent compete.
• Chapterfights & Leagues: The centerpiece for active players. Members organize themselves into “chapters” (local groups or online teams) and play rated matches. These results flow into a detailed ranking system.
• Major events: One highlight is the “Day of Legends”. On this day, various groups throughout the German-speaking world play simultaneously in a networked scenario, the outcome of which influences the background story of the campaign.
• Trade fair presence: Whether at SPIEL in Essen or various cons – MechForce is often on site with demo rounds and spectacular boards to introduce the hobby to new players.

“What’s in it for me?” – What’s in it for me?

Why should you join the club or take a look around?

1. Community & connection: First things first. You can use the club’s Discord server to quickly connect with local groups or online groups (e.g. via MegaMek). You are no longer alone in the cockpit.
2. Organized competition: If you want more than just the occasional skirmish, the ranking system offers you motivation and opportunities to compare yourself with players from all over Germany.
3. Exclusive content: The club produces its own content, such as the club magazine “Terra Post” or exclusive miniatures and mechs (such as the “Golem” mech created through a competition), which are often only accessible to members or tournament winners.
4. Co-creation: As a member, you have an influence on how the German scene develops, can take part in design competitions and help shape events.

Conclusion

MechForce Germany e. V. is the backbone of the German BattleTech scene. It has survived the demise of the major publishers and licensors and has proven that the passion of the fans is stronger than any corporate policy. Anyone who loves BattleTech will find a home at MechForce.

Interested? Then take a look at her website or visit her Discord channel: 👉 www.mechforce.de