"BattleTech starter kit?" Topic

I have a young friend (16YO) new to gaming. I think he'd like a crunchy/detailed game in a SciFi genre and thought BattleTech might appeal to him, with it's armor and damage tracking etc.

Can you recommend a starter set that includes minis and maps? I see one on Amazon but its for ages 8+ and I worry it might be too simple.

TIA

The upcoming BT Beginner's Box might be it:

YouTube link

Looks to be a good deal more user-friendly than the one I started with.

Due out…I guess soonish?- Catalyst isn't the most reliable game company around.

Indeed, they are not that reliant on keeping stuff in print.

How bloody hard can it be to keep the nth edition of the rules (how much changing or editing can there still be!?) in print?

Luckily you should be able to locate used copy more than easily…

A little more research actually suggests this is one to stay away from. The $20 USD set sounds like a nice way to start, but after that there are so bloody many rules versions it's hard to know what would be compatible with the starter, whether he could get the full version for those models. Ugh. Too much damn clutter.

The starter box set with minis will be a next year item.

Keep in mind, the Battletech rules have not changed in 20+ years. Here are the quick start rules as free PDF. The new box sets have not changed the rules as far as I am aware.

link

Miniatures are available through Ironwind metals

link

My your son enjoy big stompy Mecha!

Since he's new, I would recommend the free Quick Start Rules. I would also suggest printing some paper minis.

Something like 15 pages instead of 150, so much easier to pick up and run with. Print some paper minis for a quick game. Minimal investment to see if he likes it, then spring for some minis, paint, etc.

Sorry, I could have been more helpful:
link
paper line drawings of various mechs. Print, cut out, fold in half, blow the other guy to bits.