MechWarrior 5: Clans

75%
Game Brain Score Based on 3,017 reviews
  • story
  • optimization
  • gameplay
MechWarrior 5: Clans Game Cover
MechWarrior 5: Clans delivers the classic mech-based action fans will expect, while adding a plethora of new dynamics and modernization to keep things fresh.
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In MechWarrior 5: Clans, you are a graduate of the Smoke Jaguar cadet program thrust into the Clan Invasion during Operation Revival. Piloting customizable BattleMechs, engage in tactical combat across diverse planets and biomes in this immersive MechWarrior universe entry. This is the first Clan-based MechWarrior game in decades, where the mighty Clans collide with the Great Houses for Inner Sphere dominance.

  • PC
  • Play​station 5
  • Windows
  • Xbox Series X|S
  • Cloud
  • Play​Station
  • Xbox
  • Xbox Game Pass
  • x_box_cloud_gaming
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

75%
Audience ScoreBased on 3,017 reviews
story836 positive mentions
optimization167 negative mentions
  • Engaging story that immerses players in the Clan Invasion lore.
  • Improved graphics and visuals compared to previous titles, utilizing Unreal Engine 5 effectively.
  • Fun mech combat with a variety of missions that keep gameplay interesting.
  • Frequent crashes and performance issues, making the game unplayable for some users.
  • Limited mech variety and customization options, leading to a feeling of repetitiveness.
  • AI teammates are often unhelpful and can hinder gameplay by blocking shots or failing to engage effectively.
  • story3,378 mentions

    The story in "MechWarrior 5: Clans" is a significant improvement over its predecessor, "MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries," offering a more cinematic and narrative-driven experience that immerses players in the lore of the Battletech universe, particularly focusing on the Clan Smoke Jaguar invasion. While the handcrafted missions and character development are praised, some players find the linearity and predictability of the plot limiting, with a few expressing frustration over mission design and AI behavior. Overall, the game is well-received for its storytelling, though it may lack replayability and depth compared to previous titles in the franchise.

    • “This is finally the story-driven MechWarrior game many of us have been yearning for since MW2.”
    • “The story is immersive and well created, capturing the essence of the clan invasion.”
    • “The story is engaging, offering a fresh perspective on the clans and their complex society, with each mission feeling significant in the larger narrative of Operation Revival.”
    • “The story is not really any better than MechWarrior Mercenaries.”
    • “The story is bland and pretty short.”
    • “The story is poorly written.”
  • optimization673 mentions

    The optimization of the game has received overwhelmingly negative feedback, with many players reporting severe performance issues, including stuttering, frame drops, and crashes, even on high-end systems. While some users noted improvements following patches, the consensus is that the game is poorly optimized, particularly for lower-end hardware, and requires significant work to reach acceptable performance levels. Overall, players recommend waiting for further updates before purchasing, as the current state is considered unplayable by many.

    • “Though some performance issues and bugs detract slightly, the developers have committed to addressing these in future updates.”
    • “The performance is getting better with each update.”
    • “The first performance patch helped a lot, so my minspec machine is able to play the game smoothly, so expect performance to improve as they continue to patch.”
    • “There are some performance/optimization issues on certain levels that are weird considering my PC doesn't have any issues with other UE5 games.”
    • “The game is not optimized - you'll have huge swings in fps/smoothness between missions, even when replaying the same mission.”
    • “Performance is terrible and there are issues with certain rocky terrain textures looking like vomit about midway through the campaign.”
  • gameplay649 mentions

    The gameplay in "MechWarrior 5: Clans" has received mixed reviews, with many players appreciating the solid mech combat mechanics and the engaging narrative, while others criticize the linear mission structure and lack of strategic depth compared to previous titles. The game retains much of the core gameplay from "MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries," but introduces new mechanics that some find refreshing, though others feel they complicate the experience unnecessarily. Overall, while the gameplay is generally enjoyable and visually impressive, it suffers from performance issues and a few design choices that detract from the overall experience.

    • “One of the things I really enjoyed about the older MW games was an open map that allowed you to use the highly strategic ranged combat that enriches gameplay.”
    • “Gameplay-wise, the title retains its tactical depth while adding fresh mechanics.”
    • “The gameplay largely consists of very long, scripted corridors filled with waves of enemies that appear in horde-like numbers but are not nearly fragile enough to avoid feeling like slogging through bullet/laser/missile sponges.”
    • “Gameplay currently lacks a significant hook into making you want to keep playing.”
    • “The gameplay is solid and the missions are mostly well designed, albeit some seem a tad too extreme and others a tad too easy.”
  • graphics517 mentions

    The graphics in "MechWarrior 5: Clans" have received mixed reviews, with many players noting significant improvements over its predecessor, "MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries," particularly in terms of visual fidelity and cinematic quality. However, issues such as poor optimization, blurriness, and inconsistent performance have been highlighted, leading to frustration among players with varying hardware capabilities. Overall, while the game showcases beautiful environments and detailed mech designs, it struggles with technical performance, impacting the overall experience.

    • “The graphics are absolutely beautiful, and the cinematics are top-notch gorgeous. The gameplay is similar to what you expect, with a few neat additions around commanding your star and changing who you control.”
    • “The graphics have reached new heights, capturing the immense scale of each mech and battle sequence.”
    • “The graphics are very detailed and very atmospheric, showcasing stunning visuals that enhance the overall experience.”
    • “The graphics are worse somehow; the gameplay is worse too, with mechs feeling light and flimsy; weapons and physical attacks lack a sense of impact.”
    • “The game does not look as good to me as Mercs, which makes me question the point of a new engine when you end up with worse graphics and worse performance.”
    • “The graphics somehow are worse than in the previous game, despite using Unreal Engine 5.”
  • replayability132 mentions

    Overall, the game's replayability is widely criticized, with many reviewers noting its linear story and lack of diverse mission options as significant drawbacks. While some players appreciate the initial campaign experience, they express disappointment over the minimal incentives to replay, such as the absence of a New Game+ mode and limited customization. Comparisons to previous titles like "MW5: Mercenaries" highlight a stark contrast in replay value, with many suggesting that the game feels more like a one-time experience rather than one that encourages repeated playthroughs.

    • “A solid 20-30 hours, with decent replayability and now, with the DLC added free, it has a cool horde mode and a wonky PvP system that you can squeeze some additional fun from.”
    • “I think a new game+ mode would be a welcome addition as well and help with replayability.”
    • “Good replayability, and the customization with the different pods per mech is insane once you start to give the mech hanger a chance.”
    • “The main caveat is that the game has little to no replay value after a couple of runs.”
    • “Unfortunately, the linear story with no room for you to wander means this game has very little replayability unless you are achievement hunting, or just want to try different loadouts.”
    • “The lack of any sort of expanded 'career' mode that was available previously kills any real replayability.”
  • stability98 mentions

    The game's stability has received mixed reviews, with many players reporting significant bugs, crashes, and performance issues, particularly during mission loading and UI interactions. While some users have experienced smooth gameplay on high-end systems, the overall consensus indicates that the game is poorly optimized and riddled with glitches, making it difficult to recommend in its current state. Frequent updates and patches are anticipated to address these issues, but many players advise waiting for improvements before purchasing.

    • “The game runs great on my system on an ultrawide monitor at max settings, no issues there.”
    • “Normal playthrough was relatively bug-free and smooth.”
    • “The game has run smooth for me with no glitches or issues.”
    • “The game frequently freezes after the mission briefings, meaning you have to force-close the program and reopen it a few times just to get to a mission to play.”
    • “All in all, do not buy this game yet, it's a buggy, unoptimized mess right now.”
    • “Game is terribly buggy and crashes a lot, especially during asset loading or mission completion.”
  • music82 mentions

    The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with some players praising its nostalgic elements and fitting atmosphere, particularly the synthwave and tribal influences that enhance the clan vibe. However, many also criticize the soundtrack for being forgettable or lacking in emotional impact, with instances of missing audio during key moments and a general feeling that it fails to elevate the gameplay experience. Overall, while there are highlights, the music is often described as inconsistent and underwhelming compared to previous titles in the franchise.

    • “I found the story engaging and very enjoyable, the cinematics were great (especially loved the space battles!), and the soundtrack really nailed that 'clan' vibe.”
    • “The soundtrack's pretty good with the 90's style synthwave-esque music for the clan perspective.”
    • “The music and ambient tracks are great and I'm surprised I haven't seen the soundtrack praised more.”
    • “I literally just finished the campaign and I can't remember if there's music playing in the background.”
    • “Poor/minimal music: music is a powerful tool for storytelling, but this game straight up forgot the toolbox.”
    • “Outside of that, the soundtrack is literally one of the most forgettable soundtracks there is.”
  • grinding37 mentions

    Reviews indicate that grinding in the game is often tedious and unfulfilling, with repetitive missions and a lack of meaningful rewards for resource collection and upgrades. Players express frustration over the slow pace of acquiring materials and the necessity to replay missions without significant progression, leading to a sense of monotony. While some appreciate the curated campaign experience, many feel that the grinding mechanics detract from overall enjoyment, making the gameplay feel like a chore rather than an engaging challenge.

    • “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
    • “The grinding for extra resources is painful and needlessly slow.”
    • “The game also doesn't naturally give you enough materials to complete all of the upgrades by the end of the campaign, and there is no new game plus option to continue grinding those materials since the simulator doesn't give you materials for replaying campaign missions that you've already done.”
    • “The post-mission loop of upgrading mechs, assigning mechwarrior skills, etc. can feel a little tedious, unrewarding, and unnecessary.”
  • atmosphere26 mentions

    The atmosphere in the game is widely praised for its superb attention to detail, deep connection to Battletech lore, and immersive visuals, creating a captivating experience for players. While many commend the intense narrative and atmospheric maps, some critiques highlight issues with generic dialogue and a lack of dramatic elements in certain gameplay moments. Overall, the game successfully recaptures the beloved aesthetic of the Battletech universe, though it faces some inconsistencies in execution.

    • “The atmosphere and attention to detail is superb - it is clear that this is a game made by people with a deep understanding and love of Battletech and its lore.”
    • “The soundtrack, the atmosphere, the punchy way the weapons and damage feel, and the immersive visuals are all fantastic.”
    • “A big thanks to the developers for getting the atmosphere right!”
    • “They delved deep into the lore and the atmosphere to make the cutscenes and missions feel right, but the gameplay is meh at best.”
    • “Next: while the overall atmosphere is fitting, the endless chatter is annoying.”
    • “Many scenes and gameplay moments are dull; they feel like they should be more dramatic, but they simply miss any sort of music or ambient sound that would help immerse me into the atmosphere.”
  • emotional20 mentions

    The emotional aspect of the game receives mixed feedback, with some players appreciating the well-structured story arcs and character growth, while others criticize the characters for being overly emotional and lacking depth. The game features moments of emotional attachment and nostalgia, particularly for long-time fans of the franchise, but it also struggles with a perceived lack of a cohesive storyline and emotional intelligence in character interactions. Overall, while there are emotionally charged moments, the execution varies, leaving some players feeling disconnected from the intended emotional experience.

    • “First off, I'll start by saying that the story being implemented well here with cinematic and emotional (though often over the top) facial expressions was a breath of fresh air for this IP.”
    • “Single player story is a good one; I enjoyed it and even got emotionally attached to Ezra, wanting to help the Inner Sphere repel the clans instead of being a part of the clans.”
    • “The dialogues and supporting cutscenes are crisp, there are a few emotionally charged moments, and each character has a narrative arc.”
  • humor20 mentions

    The humor in the game is a mixed bag, with some players finding moments of levity in over-the-top character performances and absurd gameplay glitches, while others express disappointment as the initial charm fades over time. Many reviews highlight the unintentional comedy stemming from poor AI behavior and game balance issues, though this often leads to frustration rather than genuine amusement. Overall, while there are funny elements, they are overshadowed by significant gameplay flaws that detract from the overall experience.

    • “One particular character in the player's chain of command is overacted to a level that wavers between grating and hilarious, which makes mission briefings rather annoying whenever he is involved.”
    • “I recommend trying out the researchable solid slug UAC because it's really funny to just obliterate something when you get lucky and it doesn't jam.”
    • “A few cases where destroyed mechs continue to stand in place rather than falling, which I found more funny than immersion-breaking.”
    • “The humor in this game falls flat; it tries too hard to be funny but ends up being cringeworthy.”
    • “I expected some clever jokes, but the humor is just repetitive and dull.”
    • “The comedic elements feel forced and often miss the mark, making the experience less enjoyable.”
  • character development16 mentions

    Character development in the game is generally praised for its depth and engagement, with players noting that it effectively transforms initial impressions of characters as the story unfolds. However, some reviews mention that the development can feel rushed at times, and there are calls for more nuanced character arcs, particularly for those in command roles. While the storytelling and character interactions are compelling, the audio quality and some character designs detract from the overall experience.

    • “The storyline is interesting, and they have good character development for the little time that the characters get to speak.”
    • “Storytelling was surprisingly good and cinematic, and the character development with your squad had me going from hating the entire cast to being invested in what was happening around them.”
    • “There's character development; information keeps coming out that makes you go back and reassess your first impressions, and it's definitely a large part of the fun.”
    • “For a game that invested pretty much everything into cinematics and character development rather than smooth gameplay, they undo all of their efforts in the poor audio work and cut-ins.”
    • “Story and character development can feel rushed at times.”
    • “The voice acting is pretty hit and miss, and they really need better character development for the people you are supposed to be directly commanding in the game.”
  • monetization9 mentions

    The monetization strategy of the game has drawn significant criticism, with many players perceiving it as a cash grab, particularly due to the frequent release of expensive DLCs that are seen as necessary to address the game's shortcomings. Users express frustration over the lack of substantial content and the feeling that the game is incomplete, leading to a belief that the developers prioritize profit over delivering a polished experience. Overall, players recommend waiting for sales rather than investing in the current state of the game.

    • “Hopefully future content is actually content and not a quick cash grab.”
    • “This is a cash grab game, because in order to fix the story, and fix the end of the game, there is a ton of DLC that you will be sold.”
    • “Once again, another beloved IP being ruined by its developer in a half-baked cash grab, which is a tragedy from a true fan of the series who was excited for a clan-focused game.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

81% average critic score

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Play time

26hMedian play time
50hAverage play time
10-45hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 34 analyzed playthroughs

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