The Grasshopper: a versatile BattleMech in Alpha Strike
The Grasshopper (GHR-5H) is a well-known and popular BattleMech in the BattleTech universe. With its medium to heavy build, high mobility and versatile weapons, it offers impressive potential on the battlefield. In this article, we take a look at the Grasshopper in BattleTech Alpha Strike, its strengths and weaknesses, and the best strategies to use it effectively.
The Grasshopper: Technical data and playing values
The Grasshopper belongs to the heavy weight class and weighs in at 70 tons. Despite its weight, it is remarkably agile, making it an exceptional flanker and skirmisher. Its jump jet system gives it a jump range of up to 8 inches in BattleTech Alpha Strike, which greatly increases its flexibility on the battlefield.
Typical values for the GHR-5H in Alpha Strike:
- Point value: 37
- Movement: 8″ (jump 8″)
- Weapon values (Alpha Strike):
- Short: 3
- Medium: 4
- Long: 0*
- Armor: 7
- Inner structure (Structure): 6
- Special skills: IF0*
Strengths and weaknesses
Strengths
- Mobility: With its ability to jump, the Grasshopper can easily overcome difficult terrain such as forests, hills or buildings. This mobility allows it to attack the enemy’s flanks or escape from dangerous situations.
- Armor: Despite its mobility, it is well armored. This also makes it look good against larger BattleMechs.
- Flexibility: With weapon ranges from short to long and solid armor, it can be used in various roles – as a flanker, supporter or even melee fighter.
Weaknesses
- Limited long range capabilities: With only one point of damage (I’ve generously rounded up the 0*) at long range, the Grasshopper falls behind specialized mechs like the Archer or Longbow in ranged combat.
- High points value: At 37 points, the Grasshopper is one of the more expensive mechs in its weight class. Players must ensure that they make the most of its value by using it effectively.
Strategies for use in Alpha Strike
1. The mobile flanker
The Grasshopper shines as a flanking and disruptive mech. Thanks to its jumping ability and movement range, it can quickly reach the sides or rear of enemy units, where it can make the most of its high damage values at short and medium range.
- Tip: Use the terrain to get cover while you are in an attack position. Its mobility allows you to jump out of cover, carry out an attack and retreat again.
2. Middle support mech
With its 4 points of damage at medium range, the Grasshopper is a reliable support mech that can shine in a lance with a focus on medium range.
- Combinations: Place the Grasshopper alongside heavier mechs such as an Awesome or Zeus, which attract attention while the Grasshopper deals damage flexibly.
3. Surprise attacks in close combat
The Grasshopper can also surprise as a melee fighter. Opponents often don’t expect a heavy mech to be so agile and aggressive in close combat. Especially by ramming (Charge). Use its jumping ability to get into the back of enemy mechs and then use melee attacks to deal critical damage.
- Caution: This is a risky strategy, as it often brings the Grasshopper dangerously close to the opponent. Plan a retreat option in case the attack does not go as planned.
Tips for assembling the lance
To make the best use of the GHR-5H, it should be combined with mechs that compensate for its weaknesses. Here are some examples:
- Ranged specialists: Mechs such as the Archer or the Catapult complement the Grasshopper well by increasing long-range pressure.
- Scout support: A fast mech like the Phoenix Hawk can support the Grasshopper’s movements by conducting reconnaissance or marking targets.
- Frontliner: An Atlas or Orion can attract the enemy’s attention, while the Grasshopper operates from a safe position.
Conclusion
The Grasshopper is an extremely versatile and flexible BattleMech that impresses in BattleTech Alpha Strike with its mobility, efficiency and solid damage values. With the right strategy and team composition, it can shine in almost any situation, be it as a flanker, support mech or melee specialist.
However, its weaknesses in ranged combat and high point value make it a unit that requires careful planning and tactical skill. If you master these challenges, the Grasshopper is sure to put your opponents on the defensive.
