MegaMek

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MegaMek is an open source, turn-based strategy computer game that simulates the Classic BattleTech board game. MegaMek is not licensed by or affiliated with WizKids or Catalyst Games, the owners and publishers of the BattleTech line, but is nonetheless a faithful simulation of the game. Exceptions are a few trademarked items changed by the developers (e.g., changing 'Mech to Mek).

[edit] Overview

MegaMek is developed and maintained by a community of volunteer programmers, with a small core of developers supported by numerous contributors. The project is hosted by SourceForge.net and is distributed with its source under the GNU General Public License. The game is written entirely in Java with graphics based on AWT (a Swing port is underway), resulting in reasonable playability even on low-end platforms.

Currently, MegaMek supports all level 1 BattleTech rules, most level 2 rules, and a number of level 3 and house rules. The game offers a simple genetic-algorithm-driven bot that one can play against, though so far its intelligence is limited. Plans for the near future focus on completion of the core rules, while long-term goals include integration of AeroTech and campaign rules, enhanced AI and an optional 3D interface. The game currently supports multiplayer via TCP/IP, though play-by-email is possible through the exchange of saved games.

MekWars is a campaign engine that wraps around MegaMek, allowing players to create accounts, manage units and quickly arrange MegaMek games. Most public MekWars campaign servers can be found on the MekWars Tracker site.

[edit] See also

• Classic BattleTech, the original board game
• HeavyMetal, a software line for designing BattleTech units

[edit] External links

• MegaMek homepage
• MekWars, a MegaMek campaign system
• MekWars Tracker, a MekWars tracking site for most public campaign servers
• NBT-Classic, a Level 2 Megamek league using NBT Automation