Encounters: BattleTech (2024)

About this game

It is the thirty-first century. For generations, the Great Houses of the Inner Sphere have been at war, squabbling over the scraps of the long-dead Star League. Centuries of fighting have led to the formation of countless mercenary commands willing to take on the tough missions that the Successor States can't—or wont'—take on themselves. These mercenary commands live and die by two things: the almighty C-bill and their reputation among their employers that they have what it takes to get the job done. Encounters: BattleTech is a 1—8 player, fast-paced, push-your-luck dice and card game. Players act as mercenary commanders taking on contracts for the Great Houses. Defeating the enemies set to stop them earns C-bills to spend on the equipment needed to keep their unit afloat. If they defeat enough enemies, they'll complete their contract and gain the hard-earned reputation that all mercenaries seek. So grab some dice, pick your favorite mercenary unit, and show the Great Houses that you're the best mercs in the Inner Sphere! —description from the back of the box

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Works with 1 to 8. It has a designed solo mode.
• Rules load. At 1.8/5 this is a light game — explain it in a few minutes, good for a table that has not played much.
• Age. The publisher suggests 14 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.