Welcome to the ultimate MechWarrior 5 Clans (MW5C) guide, packed with the best weapon recommendations, optimal loadout tips, and effective strategies to dominate in battle. Whether you’re new to the game or looking to optimize your mechs for maximum performance, this guide will help you get the most out of your playthrough.
1. Best Weapon in MechWarrior 5 Clans: ER Small Laser
The ER Small Laser is arguably the best weapon in the game for most players, especially those looking to breeze through the campaign. Here’s why:
Why the ER Small Laser is King:
- Lightweight: It adds minimal weight to your mech, allowing you to keep your overall tonnage low while still dealing substantial damage.
- Low Heat Generation: The ER Small Laser doesn’t produce much heat, making it easy to fire continuously without overheating your mech.
- High DPS: It has an incredible DPS per ton compared to other weapons, providing one of the best damage outputs relative to its weight.
- Perfect for Close Combat: While it doesn’t have the range of some other weapons, most combat encounters in MW5C tend to take place at closer ranges, where the ER Small Laser excels.
- Minimal Downsides: The main downside is its range limitation (up to 600 meters), but given that most combat is in close-quarters, it’s not a huge issue.
When to Use ER Small Lasers
- On every mech, all the time. If you want to go for a simple, effective strategy, equip your mechs with ER Small Lasers and focus on close-quarters combat.
2. Weapon Types in MW5C
Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each weapon type is crucial for building an optimal mech loadout.
1. Energy Weapons (Best Choice)
Energy weapons are by far the most versatile and powerful weapon class. They are lightweight, efficient, and offer high damage output without the need for ammo.
Pros:
- Infinite Ammo (as long as you manage cooling)
- Lightweight and small slots, fitting into most mechs
- High DPS-to-weight ratio (meaning you deal a lot of damage for little weight)
- Hitscan Accuracy – no need to lead your shots
- Long Range – ideal for long-range combat
- No cooldown in water
Cons:
- Limited by mech’s cooling system – overheat quickly if you’re not careful
Best Weapons in this Class:
- ER Small Laser – Best DPS-to-weight ratio.
- ER Medium Laser – Slightly more powerful with longer range, but heavier.
- PPC (Particle Projection Cannon) – For devastating damage at long range but heavier and with heat concerns.
2. Missiles
Missile weapons are great for softening up enemies from a distance, especially with SRMs (Short-Range Missiles) and LRMs (Long-Range Missiles). They can quickly deplete enemy armor but run out of ammo faster than energy weapons.
Pros:
- Easier Aiming than ballistic weapons, especially with upgrades like Artemis or NARC
- Good DPS-to-weight ratio
- Can be upgraded for accuracy (with Artemis, TAG, NARC)
Cons:
- Uses ammo rapidly – You need to manage your missile supplies carefully.
- Damage spread – Missiles don’t hit as precisely as energy weapons, and the damage is often spread across multiple targets.
- Intercepted by AMS – Anti-Missile Systems (AMS) can shoot down missiles.
- AI Wastes Ammo – Sometimes, your squad AI will waste missile ammo on targets that are not a priority.
3. Ballistics (Least Effective)
Ballistic weapons are typically heavy and space-hungry, requiring large slots and offering less DPS per ton than energy or missile weapons. However, they do deliver high burst damage, especially with larger ballistics like the Ultra AC/20.
Pros:
- Good burst damage, especially with large weapons like Ultra ACs
- Decent ammo-to-damage ratio – but requires lots of ammo.
- Great sound effects and explosions – satisfying to use.
Cons:
- Very Heavy – Takes up a lot of weight and slots.
- Slow Projectiles – Must lead shots.
- Lower DPS per ton compared to energy or missile weapons.
- High ammo consumption – you can run out quickly if you aren’t careful.
3. Optimal Mech Loadout Tips
Building an optimal mech loadout is all about balance. Here’s how to build a powerful and efficient mech:
Recommended Loadout:
- ER Small Lasers: Equip as many as possible for close-range dominance. These lasers are lightweight and provide excellent DPS.
- Armor: Add about 0.25 tons of armor to each component (legs, torso, etc.) for increased survivability. More armor is helpful for higher difficulty settings.
- ER Medium Lasers: If you need a bit more range, upgrade to ER Medium Lasers. They are still efficient and provide more flexibility.
- Missiles (optional): If you have extra weight, you can add a few SRM6 or LRM10 launchers. These help you to chip away at enemy armor from a distance before closing in for the kill.
4. General Strategies and Tips
Your playstyle will change depending on the weapons and mechs you are using, but here are some general strategies to follow:
Close-Range Combat (ER Small Lasers):
- Absorb damage: If you’re using ER Small Lasers, you’ll likely be in the front lines. Use your armor to absorb damage while focusing on quickly destroying enemies.
- Focus fire with AI: Command your squad to focus on specific targets. The AI isn’t great at prioritizing, so use the shift-click command to queue attack orders on specific enemies or structures.
- Close-range combat: Stick to short-range engagements where your lasers excel, and have your squad support you by attacking the same target.
Long-Range Combat (ER Medium/Heavy Lasers):
- Find high ground: When using long-range weapons, take advantage of elevation. Being on higher ground gives you better line of sight and keeps you out of range of most enemies.
- Keep distance: Avoid getting too close to enemies unless you have a support role or are in a heavily armored mech.
Missile Builds (SRM/LRM):
- Weaken enemies before closing: Use missiles to weaken enemy mechs from afar before moving in with your ER Small Lasers or other close-range weapons.
- Upgrade for accuracy: If using missiles, equip upgrades like Artemis IV for better targeting and damage potential. The NARC beacon or TAG can also help improve missile accuracy and damage.
5. Combat Tactics and Tips
AI Commanding:
- Focus Fire: Use the Focus Fire command often to direct your squad to attack a single target. This is crucial for bringing down powerful enemies quickly.
- Shielding: If you’re in a heavily armored mech, act as a shield for your lighter allies. Draw enemy fire and let your squad deal damage.
Movement:
- Move strategically: Always stay aware of your mech’s position. If you’re using close-range weapons like ER Small Lasers, move forward to engage enemies directly.
- Jump Jets: Use Jump Jets for quick repositioning, especially when navigating difficult terrain or escaping from incoming fire.
6. Conclusion
Mastering the right weapon loadouts and combat strategies in MechWarrior 5 Clans is key to success. The ER Small Laser is an ideal choice for most players due to its high DPS, low weight, and low heat generation, making it perfect for close-range combat. However, depending on your playstyle, mixing in missiles or medium lasers can help diversify your loadout.
With these tips and strategies, you’ll be prepared to take on any challenge in the MechWarrior 5 Clans campaign.