Component Types

A mech is exactly the sum of its Parts. This page explains the different Part Types as well as what their accompanying stats and traits represent.

Looking for somewhere to view component stats? Check out MechDB!

Common Traits

Almost every part will have a few basic traits:

Mech Frames

The Frame is the foundation of your mech. It provides the superstructure you'll attach your weapons and components to, as well as the moving parts and power distribution system. Each frame has some number of slots for installing components.

Classes

Frames come in three basic sizes: Light, Standard, and Heavy. Frame size determines how many slots you have and your base speed. Smaller frames are hard to hit, but larger frames have more space for more firepower.

Component Slots

Mech frames have a number of slots where other components are installed. Slots come in two standard sizes: small (S) and large (L). Some slots are more exposed than others, and therefore more likely to be hit.

The number of slots in a frame depends on the frame class.

More details on component slots and mech frames can be found in Placing Components.

Plating

Plating protects components by absorbing damage dealt to a particular section. You should probably have plating on each section of your mech, but some mechs (especially those focused on speed) will forgo plating in some sections.

The Power Subsystem

The power subsystem consists of two components: a Power Plant and a Fuel Tank. The power plant uses fuel from the fuel tank to generate a steady supply of energy.

Power Plants

Power Plants convert fuel into Power.

Power Types

Each power plant supplies a specific type of power: either Mechanical, Electrical, or Steam power. Components must also be supplied with power of the correct type.

Note: There are a few components that are not marked with a specific power type: namely Mainframes and Mech Frames. Mainframes use power supplied by your cabin, so they draw power of the same type as the Cabin. Frames are unique in that they can be reconfigured at a garage to use a different power type. See Maintenance for more info on reconfiguring frames.

It is possible to use multiple power plants with different types, but this typically isn't worth the amount of space it uses up. It is strongly recommended that you choose a single power plant and components that match the power type it supplies.

See Planning for more information on how to choose a power type.

Fuel Tanks

Fuel tanks store fuel and supply it to the power plant. There are several different types of fuel, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. See Planning for more details on fuel types and how to pick the right one for your mech.

The Control Subsystem

Mechs are controlled by a combination of Mechaneer input and computer automation. The control subsystem consists of the Cabin, Mainframe, and Modules.

Software

In order to control your mech, your Cabin and Modules need to be compatible with the Software running on your Mainframe. There are three different types of software, aligned with the three Control classes.

Many components are compatible with multiple types of software, but you can only run one type of software at a time on your Mainframe. Your Cabin and all Modules must be compatible with the software on your Mainframe.

Cabins

Cabins provide mechaneers with all the necessary controls to pilot their mechs. They also usually have some slots for Modules and cargo.

Mainframes

Mainframes provide mechs with Processing.

Note that Mainframes do not specify a power type. This is because power for Mainframes is routed through the Cabin, where it is converted from the Cabin's power type into electrical power specifically for running control electronics. Effectively, this means that Mainframes use your Cabin's power type.

Modules

Modules are special mech parts that use a small amount of processing in order to augment mech capabilites. They vary widely in effect, from providing combat advantages to cosmetic improvements. Modules are installed in Module slots in the Cabin. Modules, like Mainframes, use the Cabin's power type.

There are many different types of Modules grouped into classes based on their function:

All modules must be compatible with the software running on the mainframe in order to function. Modules use up a small amount of processing.

Coolers

If your mech generates too much heat, it won't be able to function at maximum efficiency. In some cases, some components may even be inoperable until sufficiently cooled down. That's where coolers come in. Coolers help regulate the heat your mech generates and keep everything running smoothly.

There are four classes of coolers: ultra-efficient passive coolers, moderately efficient air coolers, inneficient but capable phase change coolers, and middle-of-the-road water coolers.

Attachments

Attachments are components that provide some sort of utility or offensive capability. These components are not in constant use, so they only draw resources when used. Attachment components can also be placed in a mech's arm sections, unlike the Infrastructure components discussed above.

Weapons

Weapons are attachments that are primarily intended for combat. In the harsh world of Mechtronica, mechaneers require a diverse array of unique weapon types to stay safe.

Equipment

Equipment describes attachments that provide some sort of utility that isn't strictly combat-focused. Many equipment components upgrade movement, enhance repair capabilities, or provide special measuring tools.