Lancer RPG: Tactical Mech Combat Tabletop Game

Lancer RPG brings the thrill of sci-fi mech combat to your tabletop. It was created by Miguel Lopez and Tom Parkinson Morgan. This game lets you pilot towering mechs in a deep universe.

In this game, you can pick from many mechs. They range from 9-foot scouts to 45-foot giants. Each mech has its own design and abilities, making combat exciting.

Lancer RPG focuses on tactical gameplay. It combines hacking, melee, and ranged combat. Even at lower levels, you can choose from many ordnance options for fun battles.

The game master can use about 20 enemy types and 10 templates. This creates different combat scenarios.

Key Takeaways

• Diverse mech designs ranging from 9 to 45 feet tall

• Rich tactical options including hacking, melee, and ranged combat

• Comprehensive 431-page core rulebook with detailed lore and mechanics

• Varied enemy types and templates for dynamic combat scenarios

• Focus on tactical gameplay over traditional roleplaying elements

• Multiple mech manufacturers with unique design philosophies

• Complex moral dynamics within the game's factions and universe

Introduction to Lancer RPG

Lancer RPG takes you to a world of futuristic battles and mecha fights. It's a science fiction game that mixes strategy with storytelling. This makes for a unique tabletop adventure.

Overview of the Game System

Lancer focuses on making your own mechs and fighting smart. You start with a basic mech called Everest at level 0. As you level up, you can add new abilities and gear.

The game uses a d20 system for making moves. You can roll extra dice to help or hinder your actions.

• Customization options include abilities, talents, and equipment

• License Levels unlock new gear and mech options

• Combat uses d20 rolls with modifiers for accuracy or difficulty

Setting and Universe

The game is set in a future after a big disaster. Humans have moved to other planets. The game world is both hopeful and full of conflict.

Core Rulebook Contents

The Lancer Core Book has everything you need to play. It covers making characters to designing NPCs. The book has about 30 NPC templates with different stats and powers.

Lancer RPG offers incredible depth in optimizing builds due to its deeply customizable modular mechs.

Lancer RPG combines strategy and stories. It's a great way to dive into science fiction gaming and mecha battles.

Character Creation System

Lancer RPG's character creation system mixes tactical RPG combat with storytelling. Players make unique pilots and mechs. This sets the stage for exciting adventures.

Background and Triggers

Pilots have different backgrounds and triggers. These shape their skills and how they react. Your choices influence their journey in the Lancer universe.

Mech Skills and Talents

Mech customization is key in Lancer. Four skills - Hull, Agility, Systems, and Engineering - show your pilot's skills. Talents give special abilities for combat and more.

• Hull: Determines mech durability

• Agility: Affects maneuverability

• Systems: Improves electronic warfare

• Engineering: Enhances mech repairs

License Levels and Progression

Lancer uses License Levels (LL) for growth. Starting at LL0, pilots get better through missions. This unlocks new mech frames and gear.

"In Lancer, your character's growth is tied to the stories you create and the battles you face."

As you level up, you get access to stronger mech setups. This makes the combat more exciting. The system keeps character growth fun in long campaigns.

Mech Manufacturers and Designs

Lancer RPG has many mech designs for fans of sci-fi rpg. The game has 30 mechs from five main makers. Each maker has special mechs and skills.

General Massive Systems (GMS)

GMS makes mechs that are good for all. The Standard Pattern I Everest is great for new players. At License Level 0, you can start customizing your mech.

Interplanetary Shipping NorthStar (IPS-N)

IPS-N focuses on tough mechs. The Raleigh frame is available at License Level 3. It has a Reinforced Frame core bonus for more durability in battles.

Smith-Shimano Corpro (SSC)

SSC makes fast, high-tech mechs. They are perfect for quick fights. These mechs are great for striker roles in Lancer RPG.

HORUS and Harrison Armory

HORUS makes mechs with new tech. Harrison Armory creates big military mechs. These are for pilots who want to win big.

Mechs in Lancer are from 9ft to 45ft tall. They come in different shapes like two legs or six legs. You can change your mech with many parts. This lets you make your mech unique for battles.

Combat Mechanics and Gameplay

Lancer RPG makes tactical rpg combat exciting. It's set in 5014 and mixes stories with mech battles. Players need to think strategically and customize their mechs to win.

Turn Structure and Actions

The game uses a popcorn initiative system. This means players and enemies get many actions in each round. It makes battles fast and intense.

Players must pick wisely between moving, attacking, and using special abilities. This makes the game more challenging and fun.

Tactical Grid Combat

Lancer's battles happen on a tactical grid. It's like Battletech and Titanfall. This setup lets players move their mechs precisely.

They need to think about cover, line of sight, and range. This makes the game more strategic and exciting.

Heat Management and Stress Systems

Managing heat and stress is key in Lancer. Too much heat can cause failures. Too much stress can make pilots tired.

This adds complexity to the game. Players must balance their actions and resources well.

Lancer RPG is great for fans of tactical games and mech battles. It's fun and challenging for both new and experienced players.

Narrative Gameplay Elements

Lancer RPG mixes story-driven gameplay with mech battles. It's a special tabletop game set in space. Players dive into a world full of corporate secrets and space travel.

Out-of-Combat Mechanics

When not fighting, Lancer uses a simple dice system for tough choices. This makes the story move well and lets players work together. Players plan and grow their characters during these moments.

Mission Structure

Lancer's game is all about missions. It switches between telling stories and fighting. This keeps players excited as they move forward.

After each mission, characters get stronger. They can then customize their mechs more. This makes players feel like they're getting better.

Storytelling Components

The game's world is huge, with lots of details about governments and companies. This makes the story richer. Even though there's a lot of fighting, Lancer's mix of storytelling and rules appeals to many players.

FAQ

What is Lancer RPG?

Lancer RPG is a sci-fi game about mech combat. It was made by Miguel Lopez and Tom Parkinson Morgan in 2019. It mixes tactical battles with storytelling in a futuristic world.

How does character creation work in Lancer?

In Lancer, you start at LL0 and can go up to LL12. Your character is shaped by background, skills, mech abilities, talents, and stats. You can get better at these things as you level up.

What are the main mech manufacturers in Lancer?

Lancer has five big mech makers. They are General Massive Systems (GMS), Interplanetary Shipping NorthStar (IPS-N), Smith-Shimano Corpro (SSC), HORUS, and Harrison Armory. Each has its own style and special skills.

How does combat work in Lancer RPG?

Combat in Lancer is all about strategy. It's based on a grid and focuses on using your resources wisely. You manage heat, HP, and use cover well. Everyone gets to act a few times in each turn.

Can you customize mechs in Lancer?

Yes, you can make your mech your own. You can pick from many weapons and systems. But, you must follow rules based on your mech's type, your License Level, and System Points. Mechs have four main stats: Hull, Agility, Systems, and Engineering.

How does narrative gameplay work in Lancer?

For non-combat actions, Lancer uses a simple d20 system. You can use your background and skills to get bonuses. The game balances action and storytelling well.

What is the setting of Lancer RPG?

Lancer takes place in a futuristic world with a wild west vibe. It's perfect for stories about corporate battles and exploring the galaxy.

How long is the core rulebook for Lancer?

The main book for Lancer is 431 pages. It covers everything you need to know, from making characters to understanding the game world.

What are the different mech roles in Lancer?

Mechs in Lancer fall into roles like Artillery, Striker, Controller, Support, and Defender. Each role has its own strengths for different combat situations.

How does leveling up work in Lancer?

Leveling up in Lancer is easy. You move up one License Level (LL) after finishing a mission. As you level up, you can boost your skills, talents, and more. You can also change how you use your points.