[color=#3300ff][u][size=6][b][center]Advice and Tips for New Players (or not so new players)[/center][/b][/u]
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[u][b]Table of Contents:[/b][/u]
[b]NOTE[/b][i]: Use the Search Function (Ctrl+F on most computers) and enter the text in the brackets of the section you want to see to be taken right to that section.[/i]



[b]1.0 Introduction [TIPS1]
[b]2.0 Advice [TIPS2][/b]
[*] 2.1 Advice - what should you remember? [TIPS2.1]
[*] 2.2 Starting out [TIPS2.2]
[*] 2.3 Status Afflictions. [TIPS2.3]

[b]3.0 "How to get money" or Farming Advice [TIPS3][/b]
[*] 3.1 Random Battles [TIPS3.1]
[*] 3.2 The Knife and Spork [TIPS3.2]
[*] 3.2.1 Advice for the Knife and Spork [TIPS3.2.1]
[*] 3.3 The storyline [TIPS3.3]
[*] 3.3.1 Big Bad Broncho(BBB) [TIPS3.3.1]
[*] 3.3.2 Surprise Attack!-Dean Warlic Quest [TIPS3.3.2]
[*] 3.3.3 The Moon [TIPS3.3.3]
[*] 3.4 Jobs [TIPS3.4]
[*] 3.4.1 The all-powerful autopsy. [TIPS3.4.1]
[*] 3.4.2 Mega Lupus [TIPS3.4.2]
[*] 3.5 Wars! [TIPS3.5]
[*] 3.5.1 Spoils from the war - Action figures! [TIPS3.5.1]
[*] 3.6 In conclusion-Farming Spots [TIPS3.6]

[b]4.0 How to spend? [/b] [TIPS4]
[*] 4.1 Mechas-Which ones should I buy? [TIPS4.1]
[*] 4.1.1 Mechas- Which ones should I NOT buy? [TIPS4.1.1]
[*] 4.1.2 Strategies [TIPS4.1.2]
[*] 4.1.3 House Mechas [TIPS4.1.3]
[*] 4.2 Credits and Nova Gems - How to spend them. [TIPS4.2]
[*] 4.2.1 Holiday Items and Rares [TIPS4.2.1]
[*] 4.2.2 Good Weapons [TIPS4.2.2]
[*] 4.2.3 Bad Weapons [TIPS4.2.3]
[*] 4.3 Build-a-Mechas [TIPS4.3]
[*] 4.4 Conclusion-How to spend [TIPS4.4]

[b]5.0 Stats[/b] [TIPS5]
[*] 5.1 Info about stats [TIPS5.1]
[*] 5.1.1 Mods [TIPS5.1.1]
[*] 5.2 Builds [TIPS5.2]
[*] 5.2.1 House mech builds [TIPS5.2.1]
[*] 5.3 In conclusion-Builds and stats [TIPS5.3]

6.0 Final notes and useful links. [TIPS6][/b]

[hr]

[right][TIPS1][/right]
[center][b]1.0 Introduction [/b][/center]
Well, first, I would like to introduce myself. I am Karika, and have taken over this guide for venturer90.[/b]

[hr]

[right][TIPS2][/right]
[center][b]2.0 Advice[/b][/center]
Well... first of all, I want to explain you exactly HOW to explain a piece of advice. Why this?  Well...

[hr]

[right][TIPS2.1][/right]
[b]2.1 Advice - what should you remember?[/b]
...A piece of Advice is, most of the time, given by experienced people, and these will usually help you, but... how do you accept this advice? By this I mean, which advice should you remember and which one should you not? Well, I find this very easy. A piece of Advice, as the name implies, is a recommendation, or a suggestion. So, you choose to accept them or not, to remember them or not. In other words, you can choose to accept or not this guide. 

[hr]
[right][TIPS2.2][/right]
[center][b]2.2 Starting out[/b][/center]

At the beginning of the game you will start on a transport ship that is headed for Soluna. It's a good place to get used to the feel of the game since it has battle options, a shop, and interactive scenes with the other newcomers. It is recommended that you stay on the Dropship until you reach level 3, though you can leave at any time if you'd like by speaking with Captain Sys-Zero to the right of the ship. Walkaround is controlled by the left click of your mouse and you can talk to any of the people on the ship simply by walking up to them. 

Mecha battles are probably the single most important part of the game. Click the little explosion symbol at the bottom of the screen to [i]Battle![/i] your first opponent. You'll start with just one weapon [i](Refurbished Machine Gun)[/i], the ability to [i]Skip[/i] a turn, and the ability to [i]Eject[/i] in order to run from the battle. On the bottom of the screen you will see red bars representing the health ([i]HP[/i]) of you and your enemy. The yellow bar represents the energy ([i]EN[/i]) pool which will drain each time you fire a weapon and will regenerate ([i]Regen[/i]) by a small amount at the end of each turn. The purple bar represents your experience level that fills as you defeat enemies. This enemy should be very easy to defeat with your basic weapon. One more important thing about battle is the concept of [i]cooldowns[/i]. While the starting gun allows you to fire nonstop, most weapons will force you to skip turns before it can be fired again due to cooldown. Also, make sure to [i]Repair[/i] your mecha after each battle since there's no charge for it but the mecha don't automatically fix themselves. After you defeat 8 enemies you will have enough experience to reach level 2 and a decent amount of money ([i]Credits[/i]). 

When you reach level 2, walk left to Tek the Mecha Mechanic. She sells several starter weapons to help you out and a few mecha for when you reach level 3. You can see how many credits you have by pressing the Shop button or simply clicking your character's face which will also show the HP, EN, and Regen for your mecha. Always look over the information before you buy a weapon so you can get the right combination of power, EN use, and cooldown length. Currently, the Smokey Flamethrower and the N-UBER Missle (FLX-N) are considered the best weapons for starting players. When you buy new weapons, you need to [i]Equip[/i] them to use them on your mecha. The starting mecha can only equip weapons to the [i]Front Arm[/i], [i]Back Arm[/i], [i]Back Shoulder[/i], and [i]Head[/i]. More powerful mechas come with more weapons already equipped and are able to equip weapons to the [i]Front Shoulder[/i]. 

After getting new equipment, head right to Sys-Zero and try the [i]Strange Blip[/i] boss quest. If you lose against Rifle Master or have an exceptionally difficult time, you might want to change your weapons or possibly buy a brand new mecha. Once you feel comfortable with your setup, select [i]Land the Ship![/i] to land in Soluna and then head to GEARS University to start your classes. 

[hr]

[right][TIPS2.3][/right]
[b]2.3 Status Afflictions[/b]
Note: If your weapon does not do damage, check, since some of them cause DoT only or Energy draining.
Status Afflictions are certain effects that can either help you / bring you to your [s]death[/s] defeat. Here is a short list of Status Afflictions: 

[b]Stunning[/b]: This useful Affliction can either stop the enemy/ you from attacking for a certain number of turns. 
[b]When you use it[/b]: When you "Stun" an enemy, they will not attack for a certain number of turns, usually one to two turns. You will have an extra turn to attack, regain energy, or reduce cooldowns by stunning the opponent.
[b]When the enemy uses it on you[/b]: You will not attack for a certain amount of turns. You will still regenerate your energy while stunned.

[b]DoT (Damage over Time)[/b]: This Affliction will take a portion of the enemy's / your health for a certain number of turns. It's like an extra hit that never misses! 
[b]When you use it[/b]: When you use a DOT on an enemy, a portion of their health is taken away every turn for a certain amount of turns.
[b]When the enemy uses it on you[/b]: When the enemy uses it on you, a portion of your health is taken away every turn for a certain number of turns.
Note: At some quests. such as the refinery in Zargon, the background or other things may affect your status as if you had DoT.

[b]BoT (Buff over Time)[/b]
This one is quite similar to DoT. This one, instead of taking away health, gives you bonuses. These bonuses are given most of the time by heads and other equipment. 
BoTs apply to both Player Mechas and Enemy Mechas.
[b]Stat Reductions[/b]: This is an annoying Affliction that reduces the enemy's / your stats. The following things can happen when your stats are reduced:

[b]Bonus (Accuracy) Reduction[/b]: When this occurs, the enemy's / your Bonus is decreased for a certain number of turns, worsening the enemy's / your chance to hit.

[b]Boost (Power) Reduction[/b]: When this occurs, the enemy's / your damage output is reduced by a certain percentage for a certain amount of turns.

[b]Defense Reduction[/b]: When this occurs, the enemy's / your defenses are lowered by a certain amount making the enemy / you easier to hit.

Before I start on this section, I should tell you what Non-Equipable Enemies and Equipable Enemies are, as I'll be using these terms in this section: 

[b]Equipable Enemies:[/b] These are enemies that are coded to be enemies that work like our mechas. Examples of Equipable Enemies: [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14805167]Candy Elf[/link], [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15616133&]Stolen Battle Ram[/link], and [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=12268425]Hammerhead[/link]
[b]Non-Equipable Enemies[/b]: These enemies are not coded to work like our Mechas. Examples: [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15234600]Ice Manta[/link] ,[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=11611928]Jimmy the Eye-Pod[/link], and [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=13864288]Infected Turret.[/link]

[b]Weapon Disabled[/b]:
[b]When you use it[/b]: When you disable an enemy’s weapon, the enemy can’t use the disabled part until the battle is over. Keep in mind that this only works on equipable enemies.
[b]When it happens to you[/b]: The part that the enemy has disabled will not work until the battle is over, or until the next battle happens. 
[b]When the Enemy is a Non-Equipable:[/b]  The same special will happen when a Shot off special occurs, so you will see the same special happen as if you activated the Shot off special on a non equipable enemy, which is a 50% extra chance to land a Critical Hit.

[b]Shot off[/b]:
[b]When you use it[/b]: The same thing happens when a part is disabled except the fact that after a weapon is shot off, it will disappear from the enemy. Also know that this only works on equipable enemies. 
[b]When the enemy uses it on you: [/b]The mecha part that has been shot off will disappear, and you won’t be able to use it until you go back and re-equip the weapon again in your inventory.
[b]When the Enemy is a Non-Equipable:[/b][/b] When the special activates on a non-equipable enemy, your Critical Strike Chance is added by 50%, increasing your chances to land a Critical Hit.
[b]Note[/b]: Default mecha weapons can get disabled, and non-default mecha weapons can get destroyed.

[b]Forced Cooldowns[/b]:
[b]When you use it[/b]: A random mecha part will be forced to cool down for a certain number of turns, and the enemy will not use this part for a certain number of turns. As before, this only works on equipable enemies.
[b]When the enemy uses it on you[/b]: When the enemy forces a cooldown of a certain part, you can’t use the weapon that has the forced cool down for a certain number of turns, forced to use other weapons to wait, or skip a turn for the part to be usable again. 
[b]When the Enemy is a Non-Equipable[/b]: When you inflict this status on a non-equipable enemy, their damage output will be reduced to 50% for 2 turns, or half of what they normally deal. 

[hr]

[right][TIPS3][/right]
[b][center]3.0 "How to get money" or Farming Advice[/center][/b]
In this area, you will learn more about places to get a lot of money by "farming". First of all, farming is not an easy activity, it is only for those who want to increase their credit account fast, and by fast I mean REALLY fast, like getting around 200000+ credits a day.Of course, there are three types of farming: Casual (those who do not play every day, but do at least 15 random battles when they do log in), Medium (those who log in almost every day and do around two Knife and Spork rounds a day) and Hardcore (those who play a lot). Now, I will explain the most used "farming spots"

[hr]

[right][TIPS3.1][/right]
[b]3.1 Random Battles[/b]
Ah, random battles. Perhaps one of the most practical ways of farming besides wars. They always give you the same amount of credits, so they can bring in a steady income of credits. Plus, the enemy variety is huge thanks to the scaling system update. 
The only bad thing is that random battles do not give too many credits when you are using a low level mech.

[hr]

[right][TIPS3.2][/right]
[b]3.2 The Knife and Spork[/b]
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=13789821]The Knife and Spork[/link] is perhaps the most famous farming spot due to the full heals after every fight and the low difficulty in the challenges if you know which mechs to use. Apart from that, you get [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=13746553]frying pans[/link] that may stun your enemies as a reward! 

[hr]

[right][TIPS3.2.1][/right]
[b]3.2.1 Advice for the Knife and Spork[/b]
Here is some advice for the Knife and Spork:
[ul]
[*] The Knife and Spork is only useful in its last challenges, where the enemies give a lot of money.
[*]Use the rewards on the challenges, but be aware that some enemies have immobility resist.
[*]Do not do too many rounds a day if you don't have time.
[*]Random battles can be faster, but thanks to the full heal the Knife and Spork has, K&S Challenge 8 is better than 10 random battles in terms of time.
[/ul]

[hr]

[right][TIPS3.3][/right]
[b]3.3 The storyline[/b]
The storyline... The eternal journey of a Mecha Pilot who once was a student, but who now has to ally with other planets so that they may survive the Shadowscythe attack...
Believe it or not, the storyline has some good farming spots.
Every quest in the storyline gives a good amount of rewards, and they should be done to get credits and items...
But I would like to point out two I like a lot.

[right][TIPS3.3.1][/right]
[b]3.3.1 Big Bad Broncho (BBB)[/b]
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14214838]Big Bad Broncho[/link](or BBB for short) is the boss of the bounty hunting job over at Westion. 
He gives 245 Exp and 2000 credits (for the level 23 version), which is pretty good for leveling up to level 25. Plus, he is very easy to beat due to the mecha's malfunction.
The only con of this spot is the dialogue, but it is not really that much. You just have to click a lot.

[right][TIPS3.3.2][/right]
[b]3.3.2 [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=13767475]Surprise Attack! - Dean Warlic Quest.[/link][/b]
This farming spot is not used very much due to the fact that it is part of the story itself, but it can be very useful. It takes about half a minute to beat the enemy. Plus, it automatically repairs you mecha after each enemy!

[right][TIPS3.3.3][/right]
[b]3.3.3 The Moon[/b]
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=13436107]The Moon[/link] is a great farming spot in my opinion, due to the fact that you just need to click, since there is no movement on the moon! Perhaps the only bad thing about this farming spot is the fact that you only fight ShadowScythe, like on the Surprise Attack quest.
[hr]
[b]3.4 Jobs[/b]
Jobs are really fun side quests that reward you with mechas and weapons. There are 5 jobs in Soluna City:
[ul] 
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=13594409]Pizza Delivery[/link], which does not give great credits, but it does give some decent equipment.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=13017778]Police[/link], which gives some fair credits (especially with the Mega Lupus) and great rewards!
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15186257]Hospital[/link], home to the famous Autopsy quest, which is one of the best ways to get EXP and Credits at lower levels. The mecha rewards aren't too bad either.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=13038350]Ghost Hunting[/link], which is...ghost hunting. The job itself is long, VERY long, but because of that you get lots of credits. Thanks to the Mecha revival, the rewards are now pretty decent, especially the Hunter Wraith/Eidolon!
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=13061560]Museum[/link], which gives decent credit rewards, but bad mechas. This is the job for the high levels, due to that fact that the monsters here are a bit stronger than the ones from the other jobs. Make sure you bring a strong energy blade!
[/ul]
[i][b][color=#FF0000]A Word to the Wise[/color][/b][/i]:[u] Do the Energy Blades Class to get a strong weapon for the jobs. When you get a good ranking, you can buy a blade from the Soluna City Energy Blade Shop. Apart from being powerful, they will be very useful in the on foot questing. [/u] 

[right][TIPS3.4.1][/right]
[b]3.4.1 The all-powerful autopsy[/b]
The  [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=13033700]autopsy[/link], probably the most useful farming spot from levels 1 to... 13, maybe? It is very useful, but to be good in it, I'd suggest you used a mouse, since laptops are not good with it. You must have very accurate movements so that you win the 500 credits and the 100 experience!

[right][TIPS3.4.2][/right]
[b]3.4.2 Mega Lupus[/b]
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=11935035]Mega Lupus[/link] is found in 1337 Falcon's Reach, in the Police job. He is powerful if you are low leveled, but it becomes much more easier with good weapons and mechs! You always get a scaled amount of credits, so it is not as useful as the Autopsy, but it is better for those who prefer battling.

[right][TIPS3.5][/right]
[b]3.5 Wars![/b]
Wars... this is my favorite farming method. When you participate in wars, you win lots of stuff: you raise the War Meter, you get credits and exp (sometimes with a boost), you can win Valor Badges, and you can access rare rewards and mechas! These items are usually powerful, and the battles are easy. This farming method is the one I recommend the most, due to the things I mentioned above.

[right][TIPS3.5.1][/right]
[b]3.5.1 Spoils from the War - Action Figures![/b]
When a war finishes, usually you will find swag for SC (Star Captain) Starships. Inside this swag, you will find one useful method for farming: Action Figures. These are sometimes real monsters and you can fight them in your starship! They are useful, since most of times war enemies give more credits and experience. I do not find it truly useful though.

[right][TIPS3.6][/right]
[b]3.6 In conclusion-Farming Spots[/b]
In conclusion, there are many farming spots, so many that I am sure you cannot count them with your fingers, but they all have a different value depending on the player. Fast players like wars due to the fact that they are quick battles most of the time. People that try to get everything slowly but surely choose the Knife and Spork. Lots of credits, but more time.
So, if you ask me: Where should I farm? I would say: It all depends how you play. At least I hope this advice helped, though. Now, on to the next section:

[right][TIPS4][/right]
[b][center]4.0 How to spend?[/center][/b]
Ok, so you have lots of credits now, but the things is...
How do you know what to spend your credits and/or Nova Gems in?
This section covers advice for keeping your credit and Nova Gem bag safe from thieves, also known as useless weapons.

[right][TIPS4.1][/right]
[b]4.1 Mecha-Which ones should I buy?[/b]
Well, this is mostly a matter of likings. The mecha I recommend the most (apart from House Mechas): 
[b]Non-Star Captain:[/b]
[ul]
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=11612180]Katana[/link]: Useful due to the fact that it is a great improvement from the Newbatron.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=16721390]Nubertron[/link]: Strong and cheap, good for low levels.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14333745]Police Force Series[/link]: First, I'd suggest getting the level 8 version. Then, you can use the house mecha from level 12 to level 20.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=16578908]Drakel Power Armor[/link]: I highly suggest you use this mecha from the 20-25 gap due to the fact that the house mecha do not improve greatly.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14750900]Geist Hunter[/link]: This mecha is pretty good for its level, plus it has a bonus on ghosts. Apart from that, it will help you later with another thing.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15855189]Mecha-Roni[/link]: The level 8 version is great. Don't get the level 13 version, as the level 12 Werewolf is just as strong for almost half the price.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15989689]Werewolf[/link]: This mecha is simply amazing. It can heal, use damage boosts, and buff itself over time while nerfing the enemy at the same time.
[*]Any War or Holiday Mecha.
[/ul]
[b]Star Captain:[/b]
[ul]
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=11613361]Volt Thorn[/link]: Because of its great EP, it has the opportunity for longer fights.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14754538]Police Force Series[/link]: Same as earlier Police Force comment.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15855189]Mecha-Roni[/link]: Same as earlier Mecha-Roni comment.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15989689]Werewolf[/link]: Same as earlier Werewolf comment.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=16578908]Drakel Power Armor[/link]: Same as earlier Drakel Power Armor comment.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15810585]Quickflash Series[/link]: Because of its Star Captain Ability, good DOT, high critical chances and immobility resistance (100% to resist), huge energy amount, an amazing damage output, and high amount of health, this great mecha is one that can last in a long battle. However, watch out for weapons that raise cooldowns/disable parts, since they can be lethal on this mecha.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15647754]Pirate Sniper Series[/link]: Its default is speechless. It's only beaten by [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14766394]Sepulchure's[/link] [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14768722]Doomknight Armor[/link] and [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14229048]Kurosawa Shimada's[/link] [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14229463]Authentic Musashi Helm[/link] specials, both which are not free to players. Even if it's a Build-a-Mecha, it should be taken into consideration if you're a Star Captain.
[*]Any War or Holiday Mecha.
[/ul]
Of course, these are tips, not orders, so buy any mecha you want to! I am just recommending these so that you take care of your money.
Note: I do not place Nova Gems because I do not recommend buying Nova Gem mecha... at least not permanent Nova Gem Mecha (non-rare)

[b]4.1.1 Mecha-Which ones should I NOT buy?[/b]
Well, these are hard choices, but I recommend you don't buy:
[ul]
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=12186096]Ghost Hunter[/link], because the first House Mech is much, much better, and you won't be level 5 by the time you finish Ghost Hunting.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=11490696#]Newbatron V.1337[/link], since you can get other mechs that are better at almost the same price(note: the price is 2000, not 20000)[/ul]
[i][b]A Small Note[/b]: [/i] The Ghost Hunter series... I would like to do a small comment: this mecha is good at its level 18 version, but its level 5 version is bad. The level 18 version, while it is mainly for catching ghosts, helps just by doing that. Plus, its upgrade is even better. [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15030047]The Hunter Wraith[/link], a Doom Upgrade of the Geist Hunter, is a good option and should also be taken into consideration even if I didn't list it.


[b]4.1.2 Strategies[/b]

There are certain mechas that work better with certain setups. Here we will list these strategies.

[b]-The Tyrant Series Battle Strategy Guide-[/b]

Tyranno, Star Tyrant, Nova Tyrant, and I guess we can also include the NG only Veloci-Mecha are very unique mecha that almost go against the general thought process of how the game is played.  Most mecha and their strategies are designed to actively attack, often known as an offensive or "playing to win" strategy.  However, while the defaults do normal damage for their level, these mecha have exceptionally low EN and Regen so you have only so many attacks before you are forced to start skipping turns.  On the flip side, these mecha have exceptionally high HP.  Some mecha series don't attain near 300HP until around 8 or so levels later.  Due to the high HP/low EN setup this mecha is better suited to wait out its enemies with only a few attacks here and there - a defensive or "playing to not lose/not die" strategy.  As long as you watch out for enemies that damage EN, there is very little that can kill you in a 1 on 1 fight that you naturally encounter at level 10-12.  While this mecha isn't recommended for speed farming, it is recommended for areas with limited heals (more on that later).

I'd suggest that the Tyrant series is better suited for SC and NG players due to the buyable weapons that should be equipped on it.  You mainly want DOT weapons and these are limited for low level free players. DOTs allow you to put damage on the enemy even while you aren't actively attacking.  This allows you to skip turns instead of burning EN on your Body or Head attacks so you can regen just a little bit of your limited EN.  Remember to [b]only[/b] use your head and body weapons unless the opponent has a DOT on you and you are dangerously close to dying (or as finish/kill moves to the enemy if the win is guaranteed).

Recommended weapons:

[ul]
[*] [b]Shoulders[/b]: Shadow Napalm v2.  The damage stacks over time allowing the Tyrant series to skip turns as it needs. For Non-SCs, use the N-UBER Missiles.
[*] [b]Front Arm[/b]: Used Electron Sniper, Shining Electron Sniper, Lava Blaster, or Acid Injection.  UES and SES are guaranteed stuns so they prevent you from taking damage.  Lava Blaster and Acid Injection are even more DOTs. For Non-SCs, UES is the best option.
[*] [b]Back Arm[/b]: Lava Blaster, Magma Cannon, or Jelly Blaster. All are DoTs but the NG Jelly Blaster is recommended since not only is it just barely below the SC Shadow Napalms in strength, [i]it uses 4 less EN[/i] which is perfect for the Tyrant Series. Non-SCs should use the Lava Cannon(s).
[/ul]

Recommended zones:

[ul]
[*] [b]Labyrinth:[/b] Limited healing makes it a little more difficult for low HP builds but makes it perfect for high HP builds like the Tyrant series.  The secret to success here is not just the fact that you can completely avoid enemies here, but when you are outside of battle your EN slowly regenerates for free so it covers your one weakness.
[*] [b]GPS Maps:[/b] These work similar to the Labyrinth in that you can regen EN for free outside of battle but the full heals themselves are limited.  Stationary enemies allow you to avoid the problem of accidentally starting a battle with no EN like in the Labyrinth.  The main non-War/Holiday areas for these are the Hospital finale and the Moon's Rebel Rescue reputation mission.  The Tyrant series really shines in the Moon rep mission since (unlike Westion) the chance of gaining reputation points goes up with the more Shadowscythe you kill, and a Tyrano with multiple DOTs can often survive fighting 3+ before needing a heal.  This allows you to clear most (if not all) of the map which increases rep chances and helps you gain experience and credits.
[/ul]

[b]-Wrangler Battle Strategies-[/b]

The Wrangler mecha has an almost MystRaven level of randomness to it in the fact that it can be either moderately ineffective or mildly powerful due to two specific things. The more problematic of the two of these can be fixed but [i]only[/i] if you are a Star Captain, so free players probably [b]should[/b] avoid the Wrangler. The second thing can't be altered, but that's actually good, because then you would break the game (more on that later).

The first of the two issues with the Wrangler is with the Volt 45 Front Arm. It is very unique in that it is one of the few default Front Arm weapons that has zero cooldown. This is useful because no matter what order you fire your other weapons, you always have another attack ready. The problem with it is that in order to balance out the exceptionally useful lack of cooldowns, it has the random chance of jamming and doing no damage at all. The problem is that the random jams can cause you to lose a crucial battle when you can't do the damage you need to do. There is one very specific solution to maintaining a zero cooldown strategy and that is with the ammunition weapons. These weapons have zero cooldown but have a limited amount of ammo that is (currently) reloaded by unequipping and reequipping the weapon. The one you want is the level 18 SC only version of the Hybrid Arm Prototype that is obtainable in the 100 Rep Moon Reward Shop. While it clashes with the Wrangler's Western theme, it works well for its purpose.

[color=#990000]Word to the Wise:[/color] The Deputy and Star Sheriff share a similar jamming trait like the Wrangler but on [b]both[/b] arms. In fact the jam on the front arm is actually a [i]backfire[/i] that can hurt [b]you[/b]. Luckily, there is a Hybrid Missile Arm as a back arm ammo weapon to go along with the front arm.  On the flip side, the back arm on the Deputy/Star Sheriff has a chance to do a DoT, so it's up to you if you are willing to take that risk...

Most of the rest of the mecha is sort of average since it has a stun and a DOT. The second thing that stands out is the Crankling Gun shoulders. They seem like simple multihitting weapons at first.  The special, "Overcrank", is a random chance of firing an extra shot. The thing that makes this either a mediocre or devastating weapon is that each time the shoulder overcranks, [i]it has a random chance of getting the special [b]again[/b][/i]. This means that (unless a cap was added--edit: I think there [i]is[/i] but I'm not sure what it is) you stand a chance of killing an enemy with a single attack.  While this isn't common, I have witnessed up to 10 overcranks in a single turn.  However, this is purely based on randomization, so there's nothing that can be used to alter overcrank chances; however, that's good, since it would be overpowered otherwise.

For the most part, the mecha is fine in most zones. However, you want to AVOID doing the Labyrinth and the Knife & Spork Challenges if you have an ammo weapon equipped, because while you will heal, you can't change equips and thus you can't reload.  This causes you to run out of ammo and effectively lack a weapon.

[b]4.1.3 House Mechas[/b]
House Mechas are possibly the best ones around, and they will help you a lot. These are the only non-rare Nova Gem Mechas I would reccomend.
But, first of all, which house should you choose?
It all depends.
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tt.asp?forumid=195]Wolfblade[/link]: Pure power at the cost of energy.
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tt.asp?forumid=193]Runehawk[/link]: Some DoTs(Damage over Time), lots of mana and randomness!(proof of the randomness is an arm every version has)
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tt.asp?forumid=194]Mystraven[/link]: Random damage(the strongest weapons have a 12-96 range!), DoTs and criticals. They base themselves on luck.
So, which house would you choose?
First, think of this: 
Which community fits you the best? I added links to the forums of each house so that you may know how each house is.
Then again, you do not worry at all about the house community, and you only care about the house mecha.
If that's the case, then I present you with the Mechas!
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=12723826]Original Wolf[/link] [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14565743]Advanced Wolf[/link]
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=12723909]Original Hawk[/link] [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14565582]Advanced Hawk[/link]
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m= 12723884]Original Raven[/link] [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14566430]Advanced Raven[/link]
The Original Mechas range from levels 6 to 24. The Advanced Mechas have versions from levels 25 through 40. 
Choose wisely. 
Although you have the option to betray, you may never return back to the house you betrayed. 

[hr]
[b]4.2 Credits and Nova Gems- how to spend them.[/b]
Most of times, people do not lose their money because of mechas. In fact, sometimes people go to bankruptcy because they spent too much on the equipment for their mechas! On this section, you will know what to spend your credits in.

[b]4.2.1 Holiday Items and Rares.[/b]
Artix Entertainment has a very unique feature: Their holiday items are extremely powerful. REALLY powerful. There are three things you must spend your money on:
1.- Mechas
2.- War Rares
3.- Holiday Items.
Holiday Items are, almost always, themed according to the season. The items are truly powerful, usually more powerful than permanent items. 
Nova Gems allow you to buy extremely powerful  equipment, and the reason for their existence are mostly holiday items and rares, since...
Normal Items= Normal 
NG Normal Items= Very powerful 
Normal rare Items= usualy more powerful than normal items 
Rare NG items = usualy more powerful than normal NG items 
"Which holiday items should I buy?" Well, I could answer you: Buy as much as you can, because they're leaving to never come back.
One thing, though: Do not spend a lot on Nova Gem items. After all, they don't drop from battles.

[b]4.2.2 Good Weapons.[/b]
Well, now that we finished the holiday items and rares subject, I want to point out the few powerful items that are permanent. In my opinion, these are:
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=13605814]Shadow Napalm v2[/link]: (NG) Speechless. Great weapons with great DoT. Even though they are level 10, people at levels 20+ use them.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=11614633]Shining Electron Sniper[/link]: (SC) One turn stun every time it hits? Excellent.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=11613676]Used Electron Sniper[/link]: Non-SC version of the SES.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/fb.asp?m=13605891]SDF Vampiric Blast[/link]: (NG) Powerful weapon, it has the power of a level 22 shoulder.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=13746553]Knife and Spork Frying Pans[/link]: Useful 2 turn stun, it is a sort of evolved Shining/Used Electron Sniper.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14958572]Dualstrike Weapons[/link]: These always do a huge amount of damage. The high level ones can hit in the 100s.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=13031204]Jelly Blaster[/link]: It's only 200 NG and lvl 9. the 100% dot makes it really powerful and makes its average damage equal to a lvl 20 sc weapon. 
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=11612263]Stun Gun RC1[/link]: While it has a huge EN requirement and a long cooldown, it is the only [i]guaranteed[/i] two turn stun in the game. Only recommended for players in the 15-22 level range due to the EN drain and the lack of enemies with high stun resistance. 
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14920989]Thunder Head[/link]: Pros: Powers up your mecha for 40% extra damage for 5 turns OR Raises Defences by 50% for 4 turns. Cons: Uses up a turn.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15578802]Precise Musket Series[/link]: This is highly recommended, because it can disable or shoot off entirely Equipable Mecha Parts, or even give a 50% extra Critical chance on Non-Equipable Mecha. 
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15580176]Adhesive Bombs Series[/link]: Crits, extra damage, and DoT. What more could you want?
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15580152]On-Target Series[/link]: Due to the increasing amount of abilities that lower your accuracy/increase their own defenses abilities, this is good because it give you a +50 bonus for 5 turns (including turn used to activate). However, it doesn't do any damage.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15580241]Shiny Cutlass Series[/link]: This amazing weapon not only does DoT, but it ALSO decreases defenses over 4 turns until it reaches -60, therefore it'll make your enemies easier to hit. 
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15580223]Shiny Cutlass Throw Series[/link]: When it's special activates, it can do amazing damage. The best part is that it's Non-SC!
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=16390504]Orboret Series[/link]: Strong BoT with a DoT added for good measure.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=16554611]BackGun Series[/link]: Immobility resistance nerf + Stun + extra damage against Shadowscythe!
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=16905788]Wraith's Claw[/link]: It's the best energy blade in the game, it has a VERY high Base and Maximum damage. 


4.2.3 Bad Weapons
Now, beside good weapons, there is certain equipment that doesn't really deserve a place in your inventory, be it because of the cooldown it has or because of its side effects.
Now, maybe the weapon pricing is not as big as the mecha chassis price, but they do certainly take a lot of your money.
Here we list some of these weapons:
[ul][*] [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=11493804]Experimental Stun Gun[/link]: Extreme cooldown and energy cost is horrible. If you are a Star Captain, avoid this and just get the [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=11612263]Stun Gun RC1[/link]. It is much more efficient. 
[*] [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=11613640]Missile-Roni[/link]: Sure, the damage is great, but after looking at the cooldown and energy requirements, you'll agree that this is a no-buy.
[*] Any head in [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15949411]Tek's Mechs[/link] Non-SC shop as they do nothing at all.
[*][link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=13767463]Energy Reaper[/link]: Its base damage is so low, it's not even worth the 200 Nova Gems.
[/ul]
[hr]
[b]4.3 Build-a-Mechas[/b]
These ones are... interesting. There are only about 4 models for this kind of mecha (one of them already rare), and they can be quite powerful if you ask some people.
Personally, I do not use them, due to the fact that I have lots of rares, and rares occupy inventory space. These mecha are recommended for:
Players who have plenty of space.
Players who buy space with Nova Gems.
Players who do not buy rares.
The combos these Mecha use are quite powerful, though. I once bought it, and I have to say I dominated. However, they are not good enough for long battles, because they use lots of energy.
If you are one of the above, you should get them.
[hr]
[b]4.4 Conclusion-How to spend[/b]
In conclusion, you have to learn what to buy and how to spend it. Here are some suggestions to be better when spending money:
Think: Is it really worth it? Check the stats (HP, EP and Regen) first. 
Check the [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tt.asp?forumid=244]encyclopedia[/link] or hauntar's [link=http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=pc7vgMbpyvPpF6x_uVAuCbQ]Ultimate MechQuest Spreadsheet[/link] (which is updated almost every time a weapon comes out by Peanut Master and the Editors of the MUS) to get complete stats of the weapons and their defaults.

[hr]
[b][center]5.0 Stats[/center][/b]
Stats, the last big improvement in the MechQuest battle system. They are not truly useful at the beginning levels, since they are most useful when the numbers are big. Still, start training your stats from the moment you decide a build!
[hr]
[b]5.1 Info about stats[/b]
I will give you a small information on stats, and then tell you about builds.
[b]Accuracy[/b]: As it implies it increases your chance to hit.
[b]Reflex[/b]: Increases chance to dodge.
[b]Power[/b]: Increases damage.
[b]Perception[/b]: Reduces damage taken.
[b]Efficiency[/b]: Reduces amount of Energy used.
[b]Luck[/b]: Increases chance of criticals, dodging, resisting stuns, and other little things.

The stats that are most appropriate for a house are:
[color=#FF0000]Wolfblade[/color]: Power, Accuracy, and maybe Luck.
[color=#00CCCC]Runehawk[/color]: Luck, Power, and maybe Efficiency.
[color=#330066]Mystraven[/color]: Luck, Reflex, and maybe Power.

[b]Note[/b]: Non-SCs gain 5 points to train on stats every level, while SCs gain 6 points.

[b]5.1.1 Mods[/b]
What are mods, you ask?
Well, they are stat boosting items that can be used on your mecha. Every Mecha comes with at least 1 Mod slot. Star Captain and Nova Gem mecha come with 2. Here is the like to the Index of Mecha Mods (a mod listing):[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=16431716]Index of Mecha Mods[/link]
[hr]

[b]5.2 Builds[/b]
Builds are the combination of different stats that "build" your character in a style of fighting.
Right now, most builds are custom, since stats are not fully developed yet.
Still, I can give you different builds I have developed.
[b]Note[/b]: These builds are at level 20 and have two variants: Non SC and SC.

[b][i][u]The Power Hitter[/u][/i][/b]
[b]Power[/b]: 60-70
[b]Accuracy[/b]: 40-50
Goes great with offensive mecha with lots of HP.

[u][i][b]The Shield[/b][/i][/u]
[b]Reflex[/b]: 50-60
[b]Perception[/b]:50-60
Goes with mecha with low HP but great offensive power.

[u][i][b]All or Nothing[/b][/i][/u]
[b]Power[/b]: 100-120
This "build" gives you great offensive power, but it does not let you develop on other fields.

[u][b][i]Lucky 7's[/i][/b][/u]
[b]Luck[/b]: 100-120
Luck affects a variety of things, and this distribution works better for some. 

Create your own build depending on your likings!
Recommendation: Do not make "balanced" builds. These do not provide good bonuses for any stat.


[b]5.2.1 House Builds [/b] 
Now, House Mechs need different builds, and here are a few I recommend.
[u][b]Note:[/b][/u]  Posted recommended Stats are set as if you're at lvl 20.

For [color=#CC0000]Wolfblade[/color], I find useful a variety of the Power Hitter, which I call the Sharp Hitter:
[b]Power:[/b] 40-50
[b]Accuracy:[/b] 60-70
[b]Reason:[/b] This one is especially useful for the Advanced Mecha, due to its special ability that makes the mecha lose accuracy. Also, if you wish for a single-stat build, power is your choice.

For [color=#33FF33]Runehawk[/color], I recommend a Special Summoner Build:
[b]Luck:[/b] 80-70
[b]Power:[/b] 40-30
[b]Reason:[/b] It gives the ability for more specials and a bit of a power boost. I do not recommend Perception, because Runehawk has a Mana Shield (on level 25 Version and up), which gives the mecha an even bigger quantity of HP.

And finally, for [color=#660066]Mystraven[/color], I recommend the Lucky Shenanigan build:
[b]Accuracy or Reflex:[/b] 40-50
[b]Luck:[/b] 60-70
[b]Reason:[/b] Due to the highs and lows of the default weapons, a high quantity of luck will allow you to dish out more critical hits and specials. As to a one stat build, choose Luck. 

For more House Builds, visit the different house strategy threads.

[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14671644]Wolfblade[/link]
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14671646]Runehawk(builds)[/link] [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14579171]Runehawk (Strategies)[/link]
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14671645]Mystraven[/link]
[i][b][color=#FF0000]A Word to the Wise[/color][/b][/i]: In the Advanced Mechas... if you change one of the weapons, you might need a different build to fit your weapons, since the defaults go along with the builds.
[hr]
[b]5.3 In conclusion-Builds and stats[/b]
To sum it all, builds will give you a huge bonus in terms of power or easiness.
Even though they do not affect you in the early levels, developing a build early makes you receive the bonuses little by little.

[hr]
[b][center]6.0 Final notes and useful links[/b][/center]
Well, I guess this is all in this guide... at least for now.
I will just leave compiled many useful links in this final section.
 
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=11595673]PVP ID's Thread[/link]<--Leave your filled format and be added to the big list!
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=9848715]MechQuest Forums Unbreakable Rules[/link]
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tt.asp?forumid=178]MechQuest-BattleOn Forums encyclopedia[/link]
hauntar's [link=http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=pc7vgMbpyvPpF6x_uVAuCbQ]Ultimate MechQuest Spreadsheet[/link] 
[link=http://razerbyte.webs.com/index.htm]MechQuest Stat Central[/link]-Useful for builds!

[b]Information for house builds[/b]
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14671644]Wolfblade[/link]
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14671646]Runehawk(builds)[/link] [link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14579171]Runehawk (Strategies)[/link]
[link=http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=14671645]Mystraven[/link]

Special thanks to:

[b]Rikai[/b]: For starting the thread.
[b]blues[/b]: For allowing me to do this guide.
[b]Andy1234, EinhanderX01, The POD, legomaster00156, Kuld, andy123, jbob741, lord of cookies, AQ Madness, .Shadow//, kasama999, aciddragon666, nopenope, serioussam and vacozaur tase[/b]: For giving useful tips that were the base to this guide.
[b]Einwill[/b]: For summing up all the tips.
[b]The Peanut Master and the editors of the Ultimate Spreadsheet[/b]: For doing and updating the MechQuest Ultimate Spreadsheet.
[b]Andy1234, hauntar, Aaronman99, EinhanderX01, Destined Dragonlord, cheese4432, skyvolt666, concreta, ZamuelNow, .Shadow//, Z.324, Luggy, Nixkreig, zeke50100, dargon, hauntar, bileon, and venturer90[/b]: For correcting and giving info on the guide.
[b]venturer90[/b]: For being the previous owner of this guide.
[b]Dudu Master[/b]: For approving this guide and pointing out some errors.

Log since Guide Takeover:
October 14, 2009 - Guide now under new management (Karika). Added Werewolf series, Valkyrie series, Orboret series, BackGun series. Fixed spelling and grammar errors. Added mods.
October 22, 2009 - Fixed a few errors. Added Mod Index as there are too many now to simply list.
November 30, 2009 - Thanks for the feedback guys! Fixed typos. added Mecha-Roni, removed Skuld.
December 10, 2009 - Fixed some links (thanks Bileon!).

http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15810585

http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tm.asp?m=15949411&mpage=1&key=�

http://forums2.battleon.com/f/tt.asp?forumid=244