Tactical analysis: An efficient lance concept for the follow-up wars (low budget)

Tactical analysis: An efficient lance concept for the succession wars (low budget)

In my games of BattleTech Alpha Strike, I have found that efficient management of point value (PV) is often more important than pure firepower, especially in the Succession Wars era. Especially in scenarios with strict upper limits or in campaigns in which repair costs play a role, it is worth taking a look at inexpensive but robust units.

In the following, I present a lance configuration that I developed for games in the 150 PV range. My focus was on a good balance between armor and damage output while avoiding expensive technology, which is rarely available in the 3025 era anyway.

The concept: Synergy before technology

My approach to this composition is based on maximizing durability per point. Due to the lack of XL engines and modern cooling technology in this era, mechs are often inherently more durable, albeit slower. I’ve targeted units that fulfill specific tactical roles and whose loss is bearable due to their low cost.

The entire lance – with a standard skill of 4 – comes to around 115 PV. In a typical 150 PV game, this gives me enough leeway for piloting skills or tactical adjustments.

The line-up

Here is the composition of my “budget lance” and the considerations that led to this selection:

1. The center: Hunchback HBK-4G

• Classification: Brawler
• PV: 28

Tactical assessment: I use the Hunchback as the primary means of pressure in the center. For under 30 points, it offers a high damage value at short range (short/medium) thanks to its AC/20 weaponry. Its main purpose in my strategy is “zoning” control: it forces the enemy to avoid certain corridors or concentrate fire on it, which takes the pressure off my other units.

2. The flank protection: Wolverine WVR-6R

• Classification: Skirmisher
• PV: 30

Tactical assessment: I use the Wolverine as a mobile element. Thanks to its jump jets, it can use terrain that would be impassable for the Hunchback. I particularly appreciate this model’s balance of armor and mobility. It’s tough enough to take a hit while trying to get into the enemy’s back or flank.

3. Fire support: Archer ARC-2R

• Classification: Missile Boat
• PV: 39

Tactical assessment: To compensate for the short range of the Hunchback, I rely on the Archer. It is one of the most cost-effective ways to bring massive indirect fire (IF) to the field in this era. My strategy is to consistently keep it in cover and engage targets marked by my Scout without exposing the Archer itself to a direct line of sight.

4. reconnaissance: Locust LCT-1V

• Classification: Scout
• PV: 18

Tactical assessment: The Locust is more than just a filler for the remaining points in this lance. Its high speed is essential for my initiative. I primarily use it as a spotter for the Archer. If the opportunity arises, I also use it to bind already damaged enemy units in close combat or to attack isolated targets.

Operational tactics

In practice, I usually move this lance according to the classic “hammer and anvil” principle. The Hunchback and the Wolverine form the anvil that binds the opponent and restricts their movement. The Archer acts as a hammer, dealing damage from a distance. The Locust provides the necessary targeting data.

The advantage of this combination lies in its redundancy. The loss of the scout is annoying, but bearable. Even if the Hunchback falls, Wolverine and Archer still have enough fighting power to avoid losing the game immediately.

Conclusion

In my experience, this lance composition shows well that you don’t need assault mechs to create a dominant presence on the field in Alpha Strike. Especially in the era of Succession Wars, a solid, coordinated unit is often more valuable than individual high-tech machines.