Key features: Durability of the STD engine Sniping support while competent at close range vs lights Decent mobility Fills multiple roles and is flexible to various situations Hit Boxes and Armor Distribution: I love the Protector, it's a very versatile 'mech that can take one hell of a beating! The way the hit boxes were designed I'm convinced this 'mech was born for a gauss rifle. It's a pretty hard target to hit because of how relatively small it's hit box is compared to the left side. That said the left side makes a great shield. Standing side ways to an enemy it's nearly impossible to hit the CT. Also another note, the back LT and RT boxes are small too. Weapon Loadout: The Gauss and ERPPC are for sniping. The gauss is a little low compared to the ERPPC so take their locations into consideration. I like to keep the options on arm lock and just hold shift when it comes time to brawl. Makes it easier to snipe with the torso mounted weapons. This mech is incredibly tall and it's main sniping weapons are mounted kind of low. Beware cresting. While sniping I do not find heat a big issue. The MPLs and SSRMs are obviously for short range skirmishing. I would avoid close range encounters as much as possible but you will not be helpless if caught with your pants down. If you need to clutch (or KS) when an enemy's core is exposed (or any of the various killing blows are readily available) your Gauss and ERPPC are at your disposal close range as well. I don't recommend even considering them vs light mechs however since they're torso mounted and if you miss on a ERPPC salvo you'll be that much closer to shutting down. The MPL heat will creep up pretty fast. If you stick to the MPL/SSRM you have ~30s of constant firing before shutdown. Groupings: I prefer this setup because of the new desync. I take a little time to line up my MPL shots so I'm usually locked on by the time I fire, why not fire all at once? =) 1 Gauss 2 ERPPC 3 MPL 3 MPL 3 SSRM 3 SSRM
