The 5 Key Things You Need to Know About MechWarrior 5: Clans

MechWarrior 5: Clans – available now for Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, Game Pass Ultimate, and PC Game Pass — reimagines and reinvigorates the legendary MechWarrior franchise. From its cutting-edge graphics to a storyline that plunges you into the heart of the Clan Invasion. This standalone game is packed with exciting new features and upgrades that take the MechWarrior experience to the next level.

To bring you up to speed on all the unique innovations and features this entry in the long-running series brings to the table, we’ve assembled five things you need to know about MechWarrior 5: Clans and why it’s a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.

Built From the Ground Up in Unreal Engine 5

The leap to this next-gen engine means you can expect stunning graphics, incredible attention to detail, and some of the most epic ‘Mech destruction ever seen in a MechWarrior game thanks to UE5. As lasers scorch armor and missiles explode across the terrain, the visual fidelity will keep you on the edge of your pilot seat. Every battle in MechWarrior 5: Clans isn’t just a fight for victory — it’s a cinematic spectacle.

The enhanced physics and destruction system of UE5 allow you to see massive environments crumble in real time. The damage done to buildings, forests, and other landscapes as ‘Mechs stomp and fire their weapons is more dynamic and immersive than ever, making each encounter feel explosive and intense.

Epic Storytelling with Over 90 Minutes of Cinematics

The BattleTech universe has always been known for its rich lore, and MechWarrior 5: Clans is elevating the narrative experience. The game features an epic story centered around Clan Smoke Jaguar, delivering more than 90 minutes of cinematic cutscenes. With top-tier voice acting, motion capture technology, and a gripping plot, players will be immersed in the journey of a warrior rising through the ranks of one of the most aggressive and iconic Clans in the franchise.

For the first time, the story is told from the perspective of Clan Smoke Jaguar, offering an untold narrative in the MechWarrior saga. You’ll experience the Clan’s culture, traditions, and internal conflicts as you fight for honor, glory, and survival. This unique viewpoint sheds new light on the complex politics and brutal warfare of the Clan Invasion era.

Streamlined Controls and Strategic Gameplay

Piloting a BattleMech has never been more fun or accessible. The streamlined control scheme in MechWarrior 5: Clans makes it easy for you to jump in and start piloting massive war machines without a steep learning curve. Whether you’re a veteran ‘Mech pilot or a newcomer, you’ll appreciate the refined handling that strikes a balance between realism and ease of use.

But the game isn’t just about getting in the cockpit and firing away. The new Battlegrid and Command Wheel systems allow you to take a more strategic approach to battles. You’ll have full control over your Star (squad of five ‘Mechs), issuing commands, managing formations, and coordinating tactics to gain the upper hand on the battlefield. These tools provide a deeper level of strategy that makes each mission feel like a complex and rewarding military operation.

An All-New MechLab and MetaGame for Customization

For those who enjoy customization and progression, MechWarrior 5: Clans brings a revamped MechLab that lets you upgrade your ‘Mechs, equipment, and even your MechWarriors more extensively than ever before. Fine-tune your BattleMechs with a variety of loadouts, armor configurations, and weapon upgrades to match your preferred playstyle or to counter specific enemy threats. The new MechLab provides the tools to tweak and perfect your ‘Mech configurations down to the smallest detail, ensuring that your machines of war are always primed for the next battle.

The MetaGame adds another layer of depth as you engage in resource management, territory control, and strategic decisions that affect your Clan’s overall war efforts. As you progress, you can develop Pilot Skills such as Evasion and Damage Reduction, enhancing your MechWarriors’ effectiveness in battle. You’ll also have the opportunity to conduct Field Repairs to keep your ‘Mechs in fighting shape between missions. With adjustable Difficulty Settings, players of all skill levels can find the right challenge. Sim Pods provide an immersive way to gain additional Experience, allowing your pilots to train and improve outside of combat. Before each mission, detailed Mission Briefings will prepare you for what lies ahead, ensuring you and your Star of ‘Mechs are ready to face any threats on the battlefield.

Co-Op Action for Up to Five Players with Crossplay

One of the most exciting features in MechWarrior 5: Clans is the addition of five-player cooperative multiplayer. Grab your friends and join forces to tackle missions as a fully functioning Star, each player controlling a different ‘Mech in the squad. The co-op mode brings a new level of coordination and camaraderie, as players can strategize together and take on enemies with coordinated assaults.

Crossplay support means that whether you’re on Windows PC, or Xbox Series X|S, you can link up with your friends and play together seamlessly. The combination of co-op gameplay and cross-platform support ensures that MechWarrior 5: Clans offers a truly connected and social experience, where no MechWarrior fights alone.

---

MechWarrior 5: Clans isn’t just a new chapter in the MechWarrior universe – it’s a bold reimagining of what a MechWarrior game can be. With Unreal Engine 5 graphics, an immersive Clan Smoke Jaguar storyline, refined gameplay mechanics, extensive customization options, and groundbreaking multiplayer features, it’s time to gear up and get ready to pilot your BattleMech like never before. The battle for honor and glory is about to begin! MechWarrior 5: Clans is available now on Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, Game Pass Ultimate, and PC Game Pass.