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Lasers

Laser

"When in doubt, bring a laser."

— Mercenary proverb

Overview

Lasers are the most common energy weapons fielded throughout the Core.

Reliable, relatively inexpensive, and requiring no ammunition, laser systems have served as the backbone of mech warfare for centuries. Nearly every military force, mercenary company, and militia organization maintains large numbers of laser-equipped mechs.

Though rarely the most specialized weapon available, lasers are often regarded as the standard against which all other weapon systems are measured.

Battlefield Role

Lasers occupy a versatile middle ground between firepower, range, weight, and reliability.

Unlike ballistic or missile weapons, lasers draw power directly from a mech's fusion reactor and can continue operating indefinitely so long as sufficient reactor output remains available.

Their primary limitation is heat generation. Sustained laser fire can quickly overwhelm a mech's cooling systems, forcing pilots to carefully manage their firing cycles during prolonged engagements.

Because of their flexibility, lasers are commonly found on reconnaissance mechs, line units, assault machines, and virtually every class of military vehicle. Every major power fields laser-equipped formations, and many commanders consider them the most dependable weapon system available.

Common Variants

Common laser variants include:

  • Light Laser
  • Medium Laser
  • Heavy Laser

See the Weapon Reference for detailed specifications.

History

Laser technology predates the modern Great Houses by thousands of years.

Though countless refinements have been introduced over the centuries, the fundamental principles behind laser weaponry have changed remarkably little. Their simplicity, durability, and ease of manufacture allowed lasers to survive the collapse of governments, the rise and fall of dynasties, and the technological disruptions that accompanied the Fall of the Empire.

Today, lasers remain one of the few weapon systems produced by every major military power in the Core. While more specialized weapons have emerged over time, none have succeeded in replacing the humble laser as the foundation of modern mech warfare.