# Heavy Gear tags: #game/rpg/heavy-gear ![[Heavy Gear RPG 4E (cover).jpg|400]] **Heavy Gear** is a science fiction tabletop RPG and wargame franchise produced by Dream Pod 9. Originally launched in 1995, the game has become known for its intricate geopolitical narratives, detailed mechanics, and, of course, its iconic mechs, known as Heavy Gears. ## Game Summary Set on the distant planet Terra Nova, **Heavy Gear** explores the political and military conflicts between various factions vying for control. The game deftly combines role-playing elements with tactical wargaming, offering players the chance to immerse themselves in a richly detailed universe. Whether it's through the lens of a military campaign or personal character-driven stories, **Heavy Gear** provides a multifaceted gaming experience that stands out in the mecha genre. ## Core Mechanics At the heart of **Heavy Gear** lies the **Silhouette** system, a d6-based mechanic that has seen various iterations across the game's editions. Here's a breakdown of how it works: - **Attribute and Skill Rolls**: Players roll a number of six-sided dice (d6) equal to their skill level, keeping the highest result. If they roll multiple sixes, each additional six "steps up" the result. - **Modifiers**: The highest die roll is then modified by adding the relevant attribute, as well as any situational modifiers or penalties. - **Resolution**: This final value is compared against a difficulty threshold or an opponent's roll to determine success. The **Silhouette** system is lauded for its simplicity and effectiveness in both RPG and tactical combat contexts. However, it has faced criticism for its sometimes inelegant handling of complex actions, which has been refined in later editions. ## Editions and Changes - **First Edition (1995)**: The debut version introduced the Silhouette system and set the standard for combining tactical and role-playing elements in a mecha-themed game. - **Second Edition (1997)**: This edition expanded on the lore and mechanics, refining combat and character creation rules. It also integrated more detailed vehicle customization options. - **Third Edition (2003)**: Enhanced the setting details and introduced new gameplay mechanics like the dueling skill and background, offering deeper immersion and character options. - **Fourth Edition (2024)**: The latest iteration promises compatibility with previous editions while updating the system to modern standards. It includes conversion rules for the **Heavy Gear Blitz** wargame and new adventure modules that explore major events in the Heavy Gear universe. ## References - [Heavy Gear Roleplaying Game Fourth Edition Kickstarter Offers Fans New Adventures - Tabletop Gaming News](https://www.tabletopgamingnews.com/heavy-gear-roleplaying-game-fourth-edition-kickstarter-offers-fans-new-adventures-in-a-classic-universe) - [Heavy Gear - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heavy_Gear) - [Kickstarter Highlights: 'Heavy Gear' RPG, Skeleton STLs, 'Weirdwood Manor', and More - Bell of Lost Souls](https://www.belloflostsouls.net/2023/05/kickstarter-highlights-heavy-gear-rpg-skeleton-stls-weirdwood-manor-and-more.html) For those of you who find joy in the methodical obliteration of foes using meticulously designed mechs, **Heavy Gear** awaits. Dive into the tactical depths of Terra Nova, where the stakes are high, the politics are messy, and the gears are heavy.