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Line 2: {{infoBoxProduct {{infoBoxProduct | image = StardateLogo.jpg|Stardate magazine logo | image = StardateLogo.jpg|Stardate magazine logo − | name = ''STARDATE''<br>(final issue titled ''StarDrive'') + | name = ''Stardate''<br>(final issue titled ''StarDrive'') | type = Magazine | type = Magazine | author = | author = Line 12:
Line 12: | illustrations = Various artists | illustrations = Various artists | publisher = Various (see article): | publisher = Various (see article): − * [[FASA]] (#1-7) + * [[FASA]] (1-7) * [[Associates International]] (Vol. 2 #8–11) * [[Associates International]] (Vol. 2 #8–11) * [[Reluctant Publishing Ltd.]] (Vol. 3 #1–6 & ''StarDrive'') * [[Reluctant Publishing Ltd.]] (Vol. 3 #1–6 & ''StarDrive'') − | productioncode = + | production code = | year = 1984-1987;<br />1988 (''StarDrive'') | year = 1984-1987;<br />1988 (''StarDrive'') | ISBN10 = | ISBN10 = Line 22:
Line 22: | era = [[Succession Wars era]] | era = [[Succession Wars era]] }} }} − '''STARDATE''' magazine (always spelled in capital letters within the magazine), renamed '''StarDrive''' for its final issue, was a print magazine initially published by [[FASA]] as a house magazine to support their [[w:Star Trek: The Role Playing Game|Star Trek]] line of games. It later expanded its scope to cover other games as well, notably [[BattleTech]]. − {{TOCleft}} + '''STARDATE''' magazine (always spelled in capital letters within the magazine, and renamed '''StarDrive''' for its final issue) was a magazine initially published by [[FASA]] as a house magazine to support their [[w:Star Trek: The Role Playing Game|Star Trek]] line of games. It later expanded its scope to cover other games as well, notably [[BattleTech]]. − ==Publication History==+ − The first issue was [[w:Cover date|dated]] November 1984. FASA published five issues of the magazine, two of them numbered as double issues (No. 3/4 in February 1985 and No. 5/6 in April 1985) for a total numbering of 7 "issues". Beginning with issue #8 (October 1985), [[Associates International]] took over as publisher and although the issue numbering continued, issues 9-11 are listed as "Volume 2". Ten months after issue #11 was published in April 1986, the magazine resurfaced for a "Volume 3" run with new numbering in February 1987, now published by [[Reluctant Publishing Ltd.]] and billing itself as "The Science Fiction Gaming Resource". + {{TOCleft}}The first issue was [[w:Cover date|dated]] November 1984. FASA published five issues of the magazine, two of them numbered as double issues (No. 3/4 in February 1985 and No. 5/6 in April 1985) for a total numbering of 7 "issues". Beginning with issue #8 (October 1985), [[Associates International]] took over as publisher and although the issue numbering continued, issues 9-11 are listed as "Volume 2". Ten months after issue #11 was published in April 1986, the magazine resurfaced for a "Volume 3" run with new numbering in February 1987, now published by [[Reluctant Publishing Ltd.]] and billing itself as "The Science Fiction Gaming Resource". For its last issue (February 1988), the magazine was renamed StarDrive, explicitly described as "Formerly STARDATE magazine" on the cover. Despite featuring content heavily geared towards FASA products (namely Star Trek and BattleTech), the editorial writing in StarDrive was notably critical of FASA. Reluctant Publishing Ltd. went out of business after this issue. (Another official BattleTech periodical, ''[[BattleTechnology]]'', was published with FASA's blessings through [[Pacific Rim Publishing]] beginning in 1987.)<ref>[https://rpggeek.com/rpgperiodical/2817/stardate ''Stardate Magazine'']</ref> For its last issue (February 1988), the magazine was renamed StarDrive, explicitly described as "Formerly STARDATE magazine" on the cover. Despite featuring content heavily geared towards FASA products (namely Star Trek and BattleTech), the editorial writing in StarDrive was notably critical of FASA. Reluctant Publishing Ltd. went out of business after this issue. (Another official BattleTech periodical, ''[[BattleTechnology]]'', was published with FASA's blessings through [[Pacific Rim Publishing]] beginning in 1987.)<ref>[https://rpggeek.com/rpgperiodical/2817/stardate ''Stardate Magazine'']</ref> − The first two volumes included the front, back, and inside covers in the page numbering. Volume three did not include the covers but adopted the numbering style of many journals, with the first issue numbered 1–52, the second 53–120, and so on, reaching 526 in issue six; the total number of pages varied by issue, peaking at 118 with number five. StarDrive restarted at page 1 and did not count the covers. + The first two volumes included the the front, back, and inside covers in the page numbering. Volume three did not include the covers but adopted the numbering style of many journals, with the first issue numbered 1–52, the second 53–120, and so on, reaching 526 in issue six; the total number of pages varied by issue, peaking at 118 with number five. StarDrive restarted at page 1 and did not count the covers. − This article is focused on the magazine's BattleTech-related content and omits any other systems. Many issues carried ads for BattleTech but no lore; these aren't considered noteworthy for the purpose of this article. Issue 5/6 is the only one in the first two volumes to carry any BattleTech material other than ads. + Issue 5/6 is the only one in the first two volumes to carry any BattleTech material other than ads. Many issues carried ads for BattleTech but these aren't considered noteworthy. + + This article is focused on the magazine's BattleTech-related content and omits any other systems. ==Canonicity== ==Canonicity== Line 40:
Line 41: As an official publication with a valid license at the time, its content can be regarded as [[apocryphal]]. As an official publication with a valid license at the time, its content can be regarded as [[apocryphal]]. − <div style="clear:both"></div>+ ==Issue 5/6 (March 1985)== ==Issue 5/6 (March 1985)== − [[Image:Stardate45cov.jpg|right|210px|Stardate, Issue 5/6]]+ '''Cover''', uncredited montage : A battle between a ''[[Warhammer]]'', a ''[[Phoenix Hawk]]'' and a ''[[Marauder]]'', taken from a larger image accompanying the article. : A battle between a ''[[Warhammer]]'', a ''[[Phoenix Hawk]]'' and a ''[[Marauder]]'', taken from a larger image accompanying the article. '''Before the Succession Wars: A Background for FASA's ''Battledroids'' Game''' by [[Patrick Larkin]] and [[Jordan Weisman]]. Some art by [[Todd F. Marsh]]. '''Before the Succession Wars: A Background for FASA's ''Battledroids'' Game''' by [[Patrick Larkin]] and [[Jordan Weisman]]. Some art by [[Todd F. Marsh]]. − : A timeline of the BattleDroids universe, from 2010 to 3025. + : A timeline of the BattleTech universe, from 2010 to the [[Succession Wars]]. − <div style="clear:both"></div>+ ==Volume 3 Number 1 (February 1987)== ==Volume 3 Number 1 (February 1987)== − [[Image:Stardatev3-1.jpg|right|210px|Stardate, Vol. 3 Number 1 ('''Stardate Redivivus''' by Pete Rogan)]]+ '''Stardate Redivivus''' by Pete Rogan : Editorial with brief mention of BattleTech. : Editorial with brief mention of BattleTech. − '''BattleMech Tech: The Flea''' by [[Forest G. Brown]] and [[L.R. "Butch" Leeper]]. + '''BattleMech Tech: The Flea''' by [[Forest G. Brown]] and L.R. "Butch" Leeper. Art unsigned. : A technical readout with stats for two [[canon|canonical]] models. Additional variants are mentioned; both 'Mechs are noted as "Formerly TRP-1 TROOPER". : A technical readout with stats for two [[canon|canonical]] models. Additional variants are mentioned; both 'Mechs are noted as "Formerly TRP-1 TROOPER". :* FLE-4 ''[[Flea]]'' :* FLE-4 ''[[Flea]]'' Line 56:
Line 57: '''Inventive Ordnance: Krupps Invicta LSW MKII 'Slayer<nowiki>'</nowiki>''' '''Inventive Ordnance: Krupps Invicta LSW MKII 'Slayer<nowiki>'</nowiki>''' : A grenade launcher for multiple gaming systems. [[MechWarrior: The BattleTech Role Playing Game|MechWarrior]] stats are included, treating it as an [[Short-Range Missile|SRM]] launcher. : A grenade launcher for multiple gaming systems. [[MechWarrior: The BattleTech Role Playing Game|MechWarrior]] stats are included, treating it as an [[Short-Range Missile|SRM]] launcher. − '''Book Reviews''' by [[w:Leo Frankowski|Leo A. Frankowski]]. + '''Book Reviews''' by Leo A. Frankowski. : ''[[Technical Readout: 3025|BattleTech Technical Readout 3025]]. : ''[[Technical Readout: 3025|BattleTech Technical Readout 3025]]. + <div style="clear:both"></div> <div style="clear:both"></div> + ==Volume 3 Number 2 (March 1987)== ==Volume 3 Number 2 (March 1987)== − [[Image:Stardatev3-2.jpg|right|210px|Stardate, Vol. 3 Number 2]]+ '''Cover''' provided by FASA Corporation. Official BattleTech issue. + '''Something Armored This Way Walks''' by Pete Rogan. '''Something Armored This Way Walks''' by Pete Rogan. − : Editorial lauding BattleTech and MechWarrior. + : Editoral lauding BattleTech and MechWarrior. '''BattleTech Tech: Longbow''' by a mystery writer. A German translation of this writeup was later published in ''[[Hardware Handbuch 3031]]''. '''BattleTech Tech: Longbow''' by a mystery writer. A German translation of this writeup was later published in ''[[Hardware Handbuch 3031]]''. : Technical readout for the ''[[Longbow]]'', a [[Ral Partha]] design that did not become a canonical design until the publication of ''[[Technical Readout: 3058]]'' eight years later. : Technical readout for the ''[[Longbow]]'', a [[Ral Partha]] design that did not become a canonical design until the publication of ''[[Technical Readout: 3058]]'' eight years later. Line 70:
Line 74: : The first of the Sandusky Sorrell stories. : The first of the Sandusky Sorrell stories. '''River Crossing: BattleTech Scenario''' '''River Crossing: BattleTech Scenario''' − : Galt's Grenadiers, a [[Federated Suns]] unit, attack elements of the [[Capellan Confederation|Capellan]] 459th Infantry Regiment supported by the 29th Independent 'Mech Lance. + : Galt's Grenadiers, a [[Federated Suns]] unit, attacks elements of the [[Capellan Confederation|Capellan]] 459th Infantry Regiment supported by the 29th Independent 'Mech Lance. '''Punchout: A MechWarrior's Guide to Safe Ejection''' by [[Blaine Pardoe]]. Some art by Matt Beauchamp. '''Punchout: A MechWarrior's Guide to Safe Ejection''' by [[Blaine Pardoe]]. Some art by Matt Beauchamp. : An article explaining why a MechWarrior might eject, followed by game rules for doing so. : An article explaining why a MechWarrior might eject, followed by game rules for doing so. '''The Recovery of MechWarriors''' by Blaine L. Pardoe. '''The Recovery of MechWarriors''' by Blaine L. Pardoe. : Recovery units rescue MechWarriors who have lost their ride while on the battlefield. : Recovery units rescue MechWarriors who have lost their ride while on the battlefield. − '''A Quick Death: Clubbing Modifiers and Variants for BattleTech''' by John A. Theisen and [[Chuck Wienand]]. Art by Gideon. + '''A Quick Death: Clubbing Modfiers and Variants for BattleTech''' by John A. Theisen and Chuck Wienand. Art by Gideon. : Official rules explained with examples given, then variant rules that add some disadvantages to club use. : Official rules explained with examples given, then variant rules that add some disadvantages to club use. '''Coolant Packs: A MechWarrior's Best Friend''' by Blaine L. Pardoe. '''Coolant Packs: A MechWarrior's Best Friend''' by Blaine L. Pardoe. Line 93:
Line 97: :* ''[[Mercenary's Handbook|The Mercenary's Handbook]]'' :* ''[[Mercenary's Handbook|The Mercenary's Handbook]]'' <div style="clear:both"></div> <div style="clear:both"></div> + ==Volume 3 Number 3 (May 1987)== ==Volume 3 Number 3 (May 1987)== − [[Image:Stardatev3-3.jpg|right|210px|Stardate, Vol. 3 Number 3]] '''Five of a Kind: New Aerospace Fighters for ''BattleTech''''' by John A. Theisen. Art by Gideon. '''Five of a Kind: New Aerospace Fighters for ''BattleTech''''' by John A. Theisen. Art by Gideon. : New [[aerospace fighter]]s specific to individual [[Successor States]]. : New [[aerospace fighter]]s specific to individual [[Successor States]]. :* GDF-L4 ''[[Gadfly]]''. [[Federated Suns]] light fighter. :* GDF-L4 ''[[Gadfly]]''. [[Federated Suns]] light fighter. :* TR-11A ''[[Traverse]]''. [[Capellan Confederation]] upgrade of the TR-11 ''[[Transit]]''. :* TR-11A ''[[Traverse]]''. [[Capellan Confederation]] upgrade of the TR-11 ''[[Transit]]''. − :* SL-23 ''[[Siren (Aerospace Fighter class)|Siren]]''. [[Draconis Combine]] fighter built around a [[PPC]]. + :* SL-23 ''[[Siren (Stardate Magazine)|Siren]]''. [[Draconis Combine]] fighter built around a [[PPC]]. − :* F-95 ''[[Cyclone (Aerospace Fighter class)|Cyclone]]''. [[Free Worlds League]] heavy fighter used for long-range bombardment. + :* F-95 ''[[Cyclone (Stardate Magazine)|Cyclone]]''. [[Free Worlds League]] heavy fighter used for long-range bombardment. :* ARN-E1 ''[[Ariane]]''. [[Lyran Commonwealth]] ground attack fighter. :* ARN-E1 ''[[Ariane]]''. [[Lyran Commonwealth]] ground attack fighter. '''Closing the Gap''' by Bob Gray. '''Closing the Gap''' by Bob Gray. Line 114:
Line 118: '''Cavalier Class DropShip: A Vessel for Use with ''MechWarrior/BattleTech''''' by [[Clare W. Hess|C. W. Hess]]. '''Cavalier Class DropShip: A Vessel for Use with ''MechWarrior/BattleTech''''' by [[Clare W. Hess|C. W. Hess]]. : A small Star League DropShip with stats given for two variants. : A small Star League DropShip with stats given for two variants. − :* [[Cavalier (DropShip class)|Cavalier]] Class DropShip (Courier Version) + :* [[Cavalier (Stardate)|Cavalier]] Class DropShip (Courier Version) :* Cavalier Class DropShip (Transport Version) :* Cavalier Class DropShip (Transport Version) − '''Books in Review''' by [[R.A. Brazeau]]. + '''Books in Review''' by R.A. Brazeau. : ''[[The Sword and the Dagger]]'' : ''[[The Sword and the Dagger]]'' − <div style="clear:both"></div>+ ==Volume 3 Number 4 (Summer 1987)== ==Volume 3 Number 4 (Summer 1987)== − [[Image:Stardate vol3 issue4.png|right|210px|Stardate, Vol. 3 Number 4]] '''BattleMech Tech''' by Jack Freeman. '''BattleMech Tech''' by Jack Freeman. : Technical readouts of two designs. : Technical readouts of two designs. Line 138:
Line 141: : Sandusky Sorrell and Galt's Company have to deal with some ''Transits''. MechWarrior stats for Sorrell and his commanding officer are included. : Sandusky Sorrell and Galt's Company have to deal with some ''Transits''. MechWarrior stats for Sorrell and his commanding officer are included. '''Pound for Pound: BattleMech Weapon Systems Efficiency''' by Jack Freeman. Some art by Gideon. '''Pound for Pound: BattleMech Weapon Systems Efficiency''' by Jack Freeman. Some art by Gideon. − : Tables for calculating the efficiency of various weapons. The writer gives his favorites for each range in hexes. + : Tables for calculating the efficiency of various weapons. The writer gives his favourites for each range in hexes. '''New Avalon Institute of Science Mechwarrior Training Manual''' by Blaine Pardoe. '''New Avalon Institute of Science Mechwarrior Training Manual''' by Blaine Pardoe. : Technical information on BattleMech systems presented as a student text. : Technical information on BattleMech systems presented as a student text. '''Flesh and Steel''' by C.W. Hess. Some art by Gideon. '''Flesh and Steel''' by C.W. Hess. Some art by Gideon. : A Draconis MechWarrior who just lost his second 'Mech is forced to help [[infantry]] hold a canyon on [[New Aberdeen]] against a 'Mech lance of the [[Fourth Crucis Lancers]]. A scenario is included at the end of the fiction. : A Draconis MechWarrior who just lost his second 'Mech is forced to help [[infantry]] hold a canyon on [[New Aberdeen]] against a 'Mech lance of the [[Fourth Crucis Lancers]]. A scenario is included at the end of the fiction. − '''What's New''' by [[J.A. Nardi]]. + '''What's New''' by J.A. Nardi. : Recent releases. FASA's entry is ''[[BattleTech Reinforcements]]'' : Recent releases. FASA's entry is ''[[BattleTech Reinforcements]]'' '''Games in Review''' '''Games in Review''' : ''[[BattleForce]]'' reviewed by Bob Gray. : ''[[BattleForce]]'' reviewed by Bob Gray. − <div style="clear:both"></div>+ ==Volume 3 Number 5 (October 1987)== ==Volume 3 Number 5 (October 1987)== − [[Image:Stardate vol3 issue5.png|right|210px|Stardate, Vol. 3 Number 5]] '''BattleMech Tech''' by Jack Freeman. Some art by Gideon and Terry Prince. '''BattleMech Tech''' by Jack Freeman. Some art by Gideon and Terry Prince. : Technical readout featuring two new BattleMechs. : Technical readout featuring two new BattleMechs. :* PLG-1N ''Pillager''. The basis for the later canon PLG-1N ''[[Pillager]]'',<ref>''Record Sheets: 3058 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)''</ref> this was the first BattleMech with dual AC/20s. The stats differ slightly from the canon version but it has identical movement, jump jet capability, heat dissipation, and nearly identical weaponry. A variant called the PLG-1F ''Matchmaker'' replaces the SRM-4 with [[flamers]] and armor is presented.<ref>[http://www.heavymetalpro.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=20&t=19020&sid=5561368419da3eca782aff3148849107 HMP Forum Discussion of ''Stardate Magazine'']</ref><ref>[http://www.oocities.org/jymset/MOTWpillager.html.tmp Origins of the ''[[Pillager]]'']</ref> as well as a minor variant that replaces the brand of medium laser, resulting in an occasional glitch with the T&T system. :* PLG-1N ''Pillager''. The basis for the later canon PLG-1N ''[[Pillager]]'',<ref>''Record Sheets: 3058 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)''</ref> this was the first BattleMech with dual AC/20s. The stats differ slightly from the canon version but it has identical movement, jump jet capability, heat dissipation, and nearly identical weaponry. A variant called the PLG-1F ''Matchmaker'' replaces the SRM-4 with [[flamers]] and armor is presented.<ref>[http://www.heavymetalpro.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=20&t=19020&sid=5561368419da3eca782aff3148849107 HMP Forum Discussion of ''Stardate Magazine'']</ref><ref>[http://www.oocities.org/jymset/MOTWpillager.html.tmp Origins of the ''[[Pillager]]'']</ref> as well as a minor variant that replaces the brand of medium laser, resulting in an occasional glitch with the T&T system. :* HdG-2B ''[[Hedgehog]]''. A tripod 'Mech with a Star League–era communications system and smoke projectors that produce smoke with high metal content, reducing the effects of laser fire; the ''Hedgehog'' is also a deadly kicker with special rules that allow it to use a modified punch table. The HdG-2B1 ''Harasser'' variant replaces the medium laser with two small lasers, while field refits to replace a destroyed comms system are forced to remove all weaponry to fit in a replacement. :* HdG-2B ''[[Hedgehog]]''. A tripod 'Mech with a Star League–era communications system and smoke projectors that produce smoke with high metal content, reducing the effects of laser fire; the ''Hedgehog'' is also a deadly kicker with special rules that allow it to use a modified punch table. The HdG-2B1 ''Harasser'' variant replaces the medium laser with two small lasers, while field refits to replace a destroyed comms system are forced to remove all weaponry to fit in a replacement. − '''Terminus''' by John Thiesen (a.k.a. John A. Theisen). Some art by Gideon; portraits by Kurt Cagle, credited in Volume 3 Number 6. + '''Terminus''' by John Thiesen (aka John A. Theisen). Some art by Gideon; portraits by Kurt Cagle, credited in Volume 3 Number 6. : Another Sandusky Sorrell story, this time a letter from home followed by a "shopping" expedition to an abandoned town. ''MechWarrior'' stats for two more of Galt's Grenadiers are included. : Another Sandusky Sorrell story, this time a letter from home followed by a "shopping" expedition to an abandoned town. ''MechWarrior'' stats for two more of Galt's Grenadiers are included. '''Terminus: BattleTech Scenario''' by John Thiesen. '''Terminus: BattleTech Scenario''' by John Thiesen. Line 168:
Line 170: '''Games in Review''' '''Games in Review''' : ''BattleTech Reinforcements'' is FASA's entry. : ''BattleTech Reinforcements'' is FASA's entry. − <div style="clear:both"></div>+ ==Volume 3 Number 6 (Winter 1987)== ==Volume 3 Number 6 (Winter 1987)== − [[Image:Stardate vol3 issue6.jpg|right|210px|Stardate, Vol. 3 Number 6]] '''Captain's Log''' by Pete Rogan. '''Captain's Log''' by Pete Rogan. : Lots for the BattleTech player this month. : Lots for the BattleTech player this month. Line 176:
Line 177: : Technical readout for two new designs. : Technical readout for two new designs. :* [[Shillelagh]] Missile Tank. This design became canon in 2013 with ''[[Technical Readout: 3145 Draconis Combine]]'', replacing the flamer with a machine gun. :* [[Shillelagh]] Missile Tank. This design became canon in 2013 with ''[[Technical Readout: 3145 Draconis Combine]]'', replacing the flamer with a machine gun. − :* MTE-12C ''[[Mite]]''. An incredibly fast [[BattleMech#Ultralight|ultralight]] 'Mech carrying a single small laser. + :* MTE-12C ''[[Mite]]''. An incredibly fast ultralight 'Mech carrying a single small laser. '''New Avalon Institute of Science Mechwarrior Training Manual''' by Blaine Pardoe. '''New Avalon Institute of Science Mechwarrior Training Manual''' by Blaine Pardoe. : BattleMech tactics presented as a student text. : BattleMech tactics presented as a student text. Line 195:
Line 196: <div style="clear:both"></div> <div style="clear:both"></div> − ==StarDrive Vol. 1, No. 1 (February 1988)== + ==StarDrive (February 1988)== − [[Image:StarDrive.jpg|right|210px|StarDrive]]+ 52 pages. − '''Cover''' by Ray Van Tilburg.+ *BattleMech Tech: A Muster of Mini-'Mechs - Six [[BattleMech#Ultralight|Ultralight]] BattleMech Designs (by John A. Theisen) − : "Mechs in the Snow". Two 'Mechs battle in a snow-covered forest. + **JNR-7P ''[[Junior (StarDrive)|Junior]]'' − '''Parents Beware''' by Bob Gray.+ **SLP-2U ''[[Slowpoke]]'' − : [[w:Op-ed|Op-ed]] on inside front cover complaining about adult themes, situations, and language in the [[Blackthorne BattleTech (Comic series)|Blackthorne ''BattleTech'' comic]] and unrelated games.+ **STL-7D ''[[Stiletto (StarDrive)|Stiletto]]'' (not to be confused with the unrelated [[canonical]] STO-series ''[[Stiletto]]'' 'Mech introduced in ''[[Technical Readout: 3067]]'') − '''Publishers Note''' by Bob Brazeau.+ **APL-1J ''[[Apollo (StarDrive)|Apollo]]'' (not to be confused with the unrelated [[canonical]] APL-series ''[[Apollo (BattleMech)|Apollo]]'' 'Mech introduced in ''[[Technical Readout: 3055]]'') − : Two-paragraph at end of op-ed complaining about cover of ''[[Sorenson's Sabres (scenario pack)|Sorenson's Sabres]]''.+ **FXR-4R ''[[Foxfire]]'' − '''Table of Contents'''. Art by Gary Thomas Washington.+ **MBSDR-I ''[[Ambassador]]'' − : A CPLT-K2 ''[[Catapult]]'' in motion.+ *New Avalon Institute of Science: Part 4: Tactics for BattleMechs (by Blaine Pardoe) − '''BattleMech Tech: A Muster of Mini-'Mechs''' by John A. Theisen.+ *Inventive Ordnance: Mine Warfare (by [[J.M. Svaib Jr.]]) − : Technical readout for six house-specific ultralight BattleMechs.+ *''[[Technical Readout: 3026]]'' & ''[[House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)]]'' presentation − :* JNR-7P ''[[Junior (StarDrive)|Junior]]''. An early 10-ton Federated Suns design, among the first 'Mechs manufactured in quantity outside the [[Terran Hegemony]]. − :* SLP-2U ''[[Slowpoke]]''. A 10-ton Capellan design with the movement profile of an ''[[UrbanMech]]''. − :* STL-7D ''[[Stiletto (StarDrive)|Stiletto]]''. A 15-ton Draconis design that outguns a ''[[Locust]]''. Not related to the [[canonical]] STO-series ''[[Stiletto (BattleMech)|Stiletto]]'' 'Mech introduced in ''[[Technical Readout: 3067]]''. − :* APL-1J ''[[Apollo (StarDrive)|Apollo]]''. A 15-ton Free Worlds League design, the only one of this sextet to have arms, thought it doesn't have hands. Not related to the [[canonical]] APL-series ''[[Apollo (BattleMech)|Apollo]]'' 'Mech introduced in ''[[Technical Readout: 3055]]''. − :* FXR-4R ''[[Foxfire (BattleMech)|Foxfire]]''. A 15-ton Lyran design with a top speed of more than 140 km/h. − :* MBSDR-I ''[[Ambassador]]''. A 15-ton Star League design with no weapons but a top speed over 170 km/h and a jump range of 60 meters. No, neither is a misprint. − '''New Avalon Institute of Science Mechwarrior Training Manual''' by Blaine Pardoe. Reprinted art by Gideon. − : Small unit tactics presented as a student text. − '''Solaris II''' by a mystery author. − : Random outcome tables and useful locations. − '''Inventive Ordnance: Mine Warfare''' by [[J.M. Svaib Jr.]] Art by [[Richard Tomasic]]. − : An overview of [[w:Mine warfare|mine warfare]]. Stats for BattleTech, MechWarrior, and three unrelated systems. − '''Off the Shelf: Armored Cars''' by a mystery author. − : A brief overview of [[w:World War II|World War II]] use of armored cars. Real-world designs are statted. − :* [[w:Alvis Saladin|Alvis Saladin]] − :* [[w:Panhard AML|Panhard ALM]] − :* [[w:BRDM-1|BRDM-1]] − :* [[w:VBC-90|Renault VBC-90]] − :* [[w:LAV-600|Cadillac Gage V-600]] − '''Whats New''' by J. A. Nardi <!-- apostrophe is missing in the original --> − : New releases column. FASA has two entries. − :* ''[[Technical Readout: 3026|BattleTech Technical Readout: 3026]]'' − :* ''[[House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)|House Kurita]]'' − '''Games in Review''' by various authors. − : Monthly review column. FASA has two entries. − :* ''[[House Steiner (The Lyran Commonwealth)|House Steiner]]''. Review by Richard Tucholka. − :* ''BattleTech Manual: The Rules of Warfare''. Review by Richard Tucholka. * ''[[House Steiner (The Lyran Commonwealth)]]'' & ''[[BattleTech Manual: The Rules of Warfare]]'' review/presentation * ''[[House Steiner (The Lyran Commonwealth)]]'' & ''[[BattleTech Manual: The Rules of Warfare]]'' review/presentation + + ==Gallery== + <gallery> + Image:Stardate45cov.jpg|right|''Stardate'', Issue 5/6 + Image:Stardatev3-1.jpg|right|210px|''Stardate'', Vol. 3 Number 1 + Image:Stardatev3-2.jpg|right|210px|''Stardate'', Vol. 3 Number 2 + Image:Stardatev3-3.jpg|right|210px|''Stardate'', Vol. 3 Number 3 + Image:Stardate vol3 issue4.png|right|210px|''Stardate'', Vol. 3 Number 4 + Image:Stardate vol3 issue5.png|right|210px|''Stardate'', Vol. 3 Number 5 + Stardate vol3 issue6.jpg|right|210px|''Stardate'', Vol. 3 Number 6 + Image:StarDrive.jpg|right|210px|''StarDrive'' + </gallery> ==Notes== ==Notes==
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| image = StardateLogo.jpg|Stardate magazine logo | | image = StardateLogo.jpg|Stardate magazine logo | ||
| − | | name = '' | + | | name = ''Stardate''<br>(final issue titled ''StarDrive'') |
| type = Magazine | | type = Magazine | ||
| author = | | author = | ||
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| illustrations = Various artists | | illustrations = Various artists | ||
| publisher = Various (see article): | | publisher = Various (see article): | ||
| − | * [[FASA]] ( | + | * [[FASA]] (1-7) |
* [[Associates International]] (Vol. 2 #8–11) | * [[Associates International]] (Vol. 2 #8–11) | ||
* [[Reluctant Publishing Ltd.]] (Vol. 3 #1–6 & ''StarDrive'') | * [[Reluctant Publishing Ltd.]] (Vol. 3 #1–6 & ''StarDrive'') | ||
| − | | | + | | production code = |
| year = 1984-1987;<br />1988 (''StarDrive'') | | year = 1984-1987;<br />1988 (''StarDrive'') | ||
| ISBN10 = | | ISBN10 = | ||
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| era = [[Succession Wars era]] | | era = [[Succession Wars era]] | ||
}} | }} | ||
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| − | {{TOCleft}} | + | '''STARDATE''' magazine (always spelled in capital letters within the magazine, and renamed '''StarDrive''' for its final issue) was a magazine initially published by [[FASA]] as a house magazine to support their [[w:Star Trek: The Role Playing Game|Star Trek]] line of games. It later expanded its scope to cover other games as well, notably [[BattleTech]]. |
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| − | The first issue was [[w:Cover date|dated]] November 1984. FASA published five issues of the magazine, two of them numbered as double issues (No. 3/4 in February 1985 and No. 5/6 in April 1985) for a total numbering of 7 "issues". Beginning with issue #8 (October 1985), [[Associates International]] took over as publisher and although the issue numbering continued, issues 9-11 are listed as "Volume 2". Ten months after issue #11 was published in April 1986, the magazine resurfaced for a "Volume 3" run with new numbering in February 1987, now published by [[Reluctant Publishing Ltd.]] and billing itself as "The Science Fiction Gaming Resource". | + | {{TOCleft}}The first issue was [[w:Cover date|dated]] November 1984. FASA published five issues of the magazine, two of them numbered as double issues (No. 3/4 in February 1985 and No. 5/6 in April 1985) for a total numbering of 7 "issues". Beginning with issue #8 (October 1985), [[Associates International]] took over as publisher and although the issue numbering continued, issues 9-11 are listed as "Volume 2". Ten months after issue #11 was published in April 1986, the magazine resurfaced for a "Volume 3" run with new numbering in February 1987, now published by [[Reluctant Publishing Ltd.]] and billing itself as "The Science Fiction Gaming Resource". |
For its last issue (February 1988), the magazine was renamed StarDrive, explicitly described as "Formerly STARDATE magazine" on the cover. Despite featuring content heavily geared towards FASA products (namely Star Trek and BattleTech), the editorial writing in StarDrive was notably critical of FASA. Reluctant Publishing Ltd. went out of business after this issue. (Another official BattleTech periodical, ''[[BattleTechnology]]'', was published with FASA's blessings through [[Pacific Rim Publishing]] beginning in 1987.)<ref>[https://rpggeek.com/rpgperiodical/2817/stardate ''Stardate Magazine'']</ref> | For its last issue (February 1988), the magazine was renamed StarDrive, explicitly described as "Formerly STARDATE magazine" on the cover. Despite featuring content heavily geared towards FASA products (namely Star Trek and BattleTech), the editorial writing in StarDrive was notably critical of FASA. Reluctant Publishing Ltd. went out of business after this issue. (Another official BattleTech periodical, ''[[BattleTechnology]]'', was published with FASA's blessings through [[Pacific Rim Publishing]] beginning in 1987.)<ref>[https://rpggeek.com/rpgperiodical/2817/stardate ''Stardate Magazine'']</ref> | ||
| − | The first two volumes included the front, back, and inside covers in the page numbering. Volume three did not include the covers but adopted the numbering style of many journals, with the first issue numbered 1–52, the second 53–120, and so on, reaching 526 in issue six; the total number of pages varied by issue, peaking at 118 with number five. StarDrive restarted at page 1 and did not count the covers. | + | The first two volumes included the the front, back, and inside covers in the page numbering. Volume three did not include the covers but adopted the numbering style of many journals, with the first issue numbered 1–52, the second 53–120, and so on, reaching 526 in issue six; the total number of pages varied by issue, peaking at 118 with number five. StarDrive restarted at page 1 and did not count the covers. |
| − | + | Issue 5/6 is the only one in the first two volumes to carry any BattleTech material other than ads. Many issues carried ads for BattleTech but these aren't considered noteworthy. | |
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| + | This article is focused on the magazine's BattleTech-related content and omits any other systems. | ||
==Canonicity== | ==Canonicity== | ||
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As an official publication with a valid license at the time, its content can be regarded as [[apocryphal]]. | As an official publication with a valid license at the time, its content can be regarded as [[apocryphal]]. | ||
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==Issue 5/6 (March 1985)== | ==Issue 5/6 (March 1985)== | ||
| − | + | '''Cover''', uncredited montage | |
: A battle between a ''[[Warhammer]]'', a ''[[Phoenix Hawk]]'' and a ''[[Marauder]]'', taken from a larger image accompanying the article. | : A battle between a ''[[Warhammer]]'', a ''[[Phoenix Hawk]]'' and a ''[[Marauder]]'', taken from a larger image accompanying the article. | ||
'''Before the Succession Wars: A Background for FASA's ''Battledroids'' Game''' by [[Patrick Larkin]] and [[Jordan Weisman]]. Some art by [[Todd F. Marsh]]. | '''Before the Succession Wars: A Background for FASA's ''Battledroids'' Game''' by [[Patrick Larkin]] and [[Jordan Weisman]]. Some art by [[Todd F. Marsh]]. | ||
| − | : A timeline of the | + | : A timeline of the BattleTech universe, from 2010 to the [[Succession Wars]]. |
| − | + | ||
==Volume 3 Number 1 (February 1987)== | ==Volume 3 Number 1 (February 1987)== | ||
| − | + | '''Stardate Redivivus''' by Pete Rogan | |
: Editorial with brief mention of BattleTech. | : Editorial with brief mention of BattleTech. | ||
| − | '''BattleMech Tech: The Flea''' by [[Forest G. Brown]] and | + | '''BattleMech Tech: The Flea''' by [[Forest G. Brown]] and L.R. "Butch" Leeper. Art unsigned. |
: A technical readout with stats for two [[canon|canonical]] models. Additional variants are mentioned; both 'Mechs are noted as "Formerly TRP-1 TROOPER". | : A technical readout with stats for two [[canon|canonical]] models. Additional variants are mentioned; both 'Mechs are noted as "Formerly TRP-1 TROOPER". | ||
:* FLE-4 ''[[Flea]]'' | :* FLE-4 ''[[Flea]]'' | ||
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'''Inventive Ordnance: Krupps Invicta LSW MKII 'Slayer<nowiki>'</nowiki>''' | '''Inventive Ordnance: Krupps Invicta LSW MKII 'Slayer<nowiki>'</nowiki>''' | ||
: A grenade launcher for multiple gaming systems. [[MechWarrior: The BattleTech Role Playing Game|MechWarrior]] stats are included, treating it as an [[Short-Range Missile|SRM]] launcher. | : A grenade launcher for multiple gaming systems. [[MechWarrior: The BattleTech Role Playing Game|MechWarrior]] stats are included, treating it as an [[Short-Range Missile|SRM]] launcher. | ||
| − | '''Book Reviews''' by | + | '''Book Reviews''' by Leo A. Frankowski. |
: ''[[Technical Readout: 3025|BattleTech Technical Readout 3025]]. | : ''[[Technical Readout: 3025|BattleTech Technical Readout 3025]]. | ||
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<div style="clear:both"></div> | <div style="clear:both"></div> | ||
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==Volume 3 Number 2 (March 1987)== | ==Volume 3 Number 2 (March 1987)== | ||
| − | + | '''Cover''' provided by FASA Corporation. Official BattleTech issue. | |
| + | |||
'''Something Armored This Way Walks''' by Pete Rogan. | '''Something Armored This Way Walks''' by Pete Rogan. | ||
| − | : | + | : Editoral lauding BattleTech and MechWarrior. |
'''BattleTech Tech: Longbow''' by a mystery writer. A German translation of this writeup was later published in ''[[Hardware Handbuch 3031]]''. | '''BattleTech Tech: Longbow''' by a mystery writer. A German translation of this writeup was later published in ''[[Hardware Handbuch 3031]]''. | ||
: Technical readout for the ''[[Longbow]]'', a [[Ral Partha]] design that did not become a canonical design until the publication of ''[[Technical Readout: 3058]]'' eight years later. | : Technical readout for the ''[[Longbow]]'', a [[Ral Partha]] design that did not become a canonical design until the publication of ''[[Technical Readout: 3058]]'' eight years later. | ||
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: The first of the Sandusky Sorrell stories. | : The first of the Sandusky Sorrell stories. | ||
'''River Crossing: BattleTech Scenario''' | '''River Crossing: BattleTech Scenario''' | ||
| − | : Galt's Grenadiers, a [[Federated Suns]] unit, | + | : Galt's Grenadiers, a [[Federated Suns]] unit, attacks elements of the [[Capellan Confederation|Capellan]] 459th Infantry Regiment supported by the 29th Independent 'Mech Lance. |
'''Punchout: A MechWarrior's Guide to Safe Ejection''' by [[Blaine Pardoe]]. Some art by Matt Beauchamp. | '''Punchout: A MechWarrior's Guide to Safe Ejection''' by [[Blaine Pardoe]]. Some art by Matt Beauchamp. | ||
: An article explaining why a MechWarrior might eject, followed by game rules for doing so. | : An article explaining why a MechWarrior might eject, followed by game rules for doing so. | ||
'''The Recovery of MechWarriors''' by Blaine L. Pardoe. | '''The Recovery of MechWarriors''' by Blaine L. Pardoe. | ||
: Recovery units rescue MechWarriors who have lost their ride while on the battlefield. | : Recovery units rescue MechWarriors who have lost their ride while on the battlefield. | ||
| − | '''A Quick Death: Clubbing | + | '''A Quick Death: Clubbing Modfiers and Variants for BattleTech''' by John A. Theisen and Chuck Wienand. Art by Gideon. |
: Official rules explained with examples given, then variant rules that add some disadvantages to club use. | : Official rules explained with examples given, then variant rules that add some disadvantages to club use. | ||
'''Coolant Packs: A MechWarrior's Best Friend''' by Blaine L. Pardoe. | '''Coolant Packs: A MechWarrior's Best Friend''' by Blaine L. Pardoe. | ||
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:* ''[[Mercenary's Handbook|The Mercenary's Handbook]]'' | :* ''[[Mercenary's Handbook|The Mercenary's Handbook]]'' | ||
<div style="clear:both"></div> | <div style="clear:both"></div> | ||
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==Volume 3 Number 3 (May 1987)== | ==Volume 3 Number 3 (May 1987)== | ||
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'''Five of a Kind: New Aerospace Fighters for ''BattleTech''''' by John A. Theisen. Art by Gideon. | '''Five of a Kind: New Aerospace Fighters for ''BattleTech''''' by John A. Theisen. Art by Gideon. | ||
: New [[aerospace fighter]]s specific to individual [[Successor States]]. | : New [[aerospace fighter]]s specific to individual [[Successor States]]. | ||
:* GDF-L4 ''[[Gadfly]]''. [[Federated Suns]] light fighter. | :* GDF-L4 ''[[Gadfly]]''. [[Federated Suns]] light fighter. | ||
:* TR-11A ''[[Traverse]]''. [[Capellan Confederation]] upgrade of the TR-11 ''[[Transit]]''. | :* TR-11A ''[[Traverse]]''. [[Capellan Confederation]] upgrade of the TR-11 ''[[Transit]]''. | ||
| − | :* SL-23 ''[[Siren ( | + | :* SL-23 ''[[Siren (Stardate Magazine)|Siren]]''. [[Draconis Combine]] fighter built around a [[PPC]]. |
| − | :* F-95 ''[[Cyclone ( | + | :* F-95 ''[[Cyclone (Stardate Magazine)|Cyclone]]''. [[Free Worlds League]] heavy fighter used for long-range bombardment. |
:* ARN-E1 ''[[Ariane]]''. [[Lyran Commonwealth]] ground attack fighter. | :* ARN-E1 ''[[Ariane]]''. [[Lyran Commonwealth]] ground attack fighter. | ||
'''Closing the Gap''' by Bob Gray. | '''Closing the Gap''' by Bob Gray. | ||
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'''Cavalier Class DropShip: A Vessel for Use with ''MechWarrior/BattleTech''''' by [[Clare W. Hess|C. W. Hess]]. | '''Cavalier Class DropShip: A Vessel for Use with ''MechWarrior/BattleTech''''' by [[Clare W. Hess|C. W. Hess]]. | ||
: A small Star League DropShip with stats given for two variants. | : A small Star League DropShip with stats given for two variants. | ||
| − | :* [[Cavalier ( | + | :* [[Cavalier (Stardate)|Cavalier]] Class DropShip (Courier Version) |
:* Cavalier Class DropShip (Transport Version) | :* Cavalier Class DropShip (Transport Version) | ||
| − | '''Books in Review''' by | + | '''Books in Review''' by R.A. Brazeau. |
: ''[[The Sword and the Dagger]]'' | : ''[[The Sword and the Dagger]]'' | ||
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==Volume 3 Number 4 (Summer 1987)== | ==Volume 3 Number 4 (Summer 1987)== | ||
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'''BattleMech Tech''' by Jack Freeman. | '''BattleMech Tech''' by Jack Freeman. | ||
: Technical readouts of two designs. | : Technical readouts of two designs. | ||
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: Sandusky Sorrell and Galt's Company have to deal with some ''Transits''. MechWarrior stats for Sorrell and his commanding officer are included. | : Sandusky Sorrell and Galt's Company have to deal with some ''Transits''. MechWarrior stats for Sorrell and his commanding officer are included. | ||
'''Pound for Pound: BattleMech Weapon Systems Efficiency''' by Jack Freeman. Some art by Gideon. | '''Pound for Pound: BattleMech Weapon Systems Efficiency''' by Jack Freeman. Some art by Gideon. | ||
| − | : Tables for calculating the efficiency of various weapons. The writer gives his | + | : Tables for calculating the efficiency of various weapons. The writer gives his favourites for each range in hexes. |
'''New Avalon Institute of Science Mechwarrior Training Manual''' by Blaine Pardoe. | '''New Avalon Institute of Science Mechwarrior Training Manual''' by Blaine Pardoe. | ||
: Technical information on BattleMech systems presented as a student text. | : Technical information on BattleMech systems presented as a student text. | ||
'''Flesh and Steel''' by C.W. Hess. Some art by Gideon. | '''Flesh and Steel''' by C.W. Hess. Some art by Gideon. | ||
: A Draconis MechWarrior who just lost his second 'Mech is forced to help [[infantry]] hold a canyon on [[New Aberdeen]] against a 'Mech lance of the [[Fourth Crucis Lancers]]. A scenario is included at the end of the fiction. | : A Draconis MechWarrior who just lost his second 'Mech is forced to help [[infantry]] hold a canyon on [[New Aberdeen]] against a 'Mech lance of the [[Fourth Crucis Lancers]]. A scenario is included at the end of the fiction. | ||
| − | '''What's New''' by | + | '''What's New''' by J.A. Nardi. |
: Recent releases. FASA's entry is ''[[BattleTech Reinforcements]]'' | : Recent releases. FASA's entry is ''[[BattleTech Reinforcements]]'' | ||
'''Games in Review''' | '''Games in Review''' | ||
: ''[[BattleForce]]'' reviewed by Bob Gray. | : ''[[BattleForce]]'' reviewed by Bob Gray. | ||
| − | + | ||
==Volume 3 Number 5 (October 1987)== | ==Volume 3 Number 5 (October 1987)== | ||
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'''BattleMech Tech''' by Jack Freeman. Some art by Gideon and Terry Prince. | '''BattleMech Tech''' by Jack Freeman. Some art by Gideon and Terry Prince. | ||
: Technical readout featuring two new BattleMechs. | : Technical readout featuring two new BattleMechs. | ||
:* PLG-1N ''Pillager''. The basis for the later canon PLG-1N ''[[Pillager]]'',<ref>''Record Sheets: 3058 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)''</ref> this was the first BattleMech with dual AC/20s. The stats differ slightly from the canon version but it has identical movement, jump jet capability, heat dissipation, and nearly identical weaponry. A variant called the PLG-1F ''Matchmaker'' replaces the SRM-4 with [[flamers]] and armor is presented.<ref>[http://www.heavymetalpro.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=20&t=19020&sid=5561368419da3eca782aff3148849107 HMP Forum Discussion of ''Stardate Magazine'']</ref><ref>[http://www.oocities.org/jymset/MOTWpillager.html.tmp Origins of the ''[[Pillager]]'']</ref> as well as a minor variant that replaces the brand of medium laser, resulting in an occasional glitch with the T&T system. | :* PLG-1N ''Pillager''. The basis for the later canon PLG-1N ''[[Pillager]]'',<ref>''Record Sheets: 3058 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)''</ref> this was the first BattleMech with dual AC/20s. The stats differ slightly from the canon version but it has identical movement, jump jet capability, heat dissipation, and nearly identical weaponry. A variant called the PLG-1F ''Matchmaker'' replaces the SRM-4 with [[flamers]] and armor is presented.<ref>[http://www.heavymetalpro.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=20&t=19020&sid=5561368419da3eca782aff3148849107 HMP Forum Discussion of ''Stardate Magazine'']</ref><ref>[http://www.oocities.org/jymset/MOTWpillager.html.tmp Origins of the ''[[Pillager]]'']</ref> as well as a minor variant that replaces the brand of medium laser, resulting in an occasional glitch with the T&T system. | ||
:* HdG-2B ''[[Hedgehog]]''. A tripod 'Mech with a Star League–era communications system and smoke projectors that produce smoke with high metal content, reducing the effects of laser fire; the ''Hedgehog'' is also a deadly kicker with special rules that allow it to use a modified punch table. The HdG-2B1 ''Harasser'' variant replaces the medium laser with two small lasers, while field refits to replace a destroyed comms system are forced to remove all weaponry to fit in a replacement. | :* HdG-2B ''[[Hedgehog]]''. A tripod 'Mech with a Star League–era communications system and smoke projectors that produce smoke with high metal content, reducing the effects of laser fire; the ''Hedgehog'' is also a deadly kicker with special rules that allow it to use a modified punch table. The HdG-2B1 ''Harasser'' variant replaces the medium laser with two small lasers, while field refits to replace a destroyed comms system are forced to remove all weaponry to fit in a replacement. | ||
| − | '''Terminus''' by John Thiesen ( | + | '''Terminus''' by John Thiesen (aka John A. Theisen). Some art by Gideon; portraits by Kurt Cagle, credited in Volume 3 Number 6. |
: Another Sandusky Sorrell story, this time a letter from home followed by a "shopping" expedition to an abandoned town. ''MechWarrior'' stats for two more of Galt's Grenadiers are included. | : Another Sandusky Sorrell story, this time a letter from home followed by a "shopping" expedition to an abandoned town. ''MechWarrior'' stats for two more of Galt's Grenadiers are included. | ||
'''Terminus: BattleTech Scenario''' by John Thiesen. | '''Terminus: BattleTech Scenario''' by John Thiesen. | ||
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'''Games in Review''' | '''Games in Review''' | ||
: ''BattleTech Reinforcements'' is FASA's entry. | : ''BattleTech Reinforcements'' is FASA's entry. | ||
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==Volume 3 Number 6 (Winter 1987)== | ==Volume 3 Number 6 (Winter 1987)== | ||
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'''Captain's Log''' by Pete Rogan. | '''Captain's Log''' by Pete Rogan. | ||
: Lots for the BattleTech player this month. | : Lots for the BattleTech player this month. | ||
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: Technical readout for two new designs. | : Technical readout for two new designs. | ||
:* [[Shillelagh]] Missile Tank. This design became canon in 2013 with ''[[Technical Readout: 3145 Draconis Combine]]'', replacing the flamer with a machine gun. | :* [[Shillelagh]] Missile Tank. This design became canon in 2013 with ''[[Technical Readout: 3145 Draconis Combine]]'', replacing the flamer with a machine gun. | ||
| − | :* MTE-12C ''[[Mite]]''. An incredibly fast | + | :* MTE-12C ''[[Mite]]''. An incredibly fast ultralight 'Mech carrying a single small laser. |
'''New Avalon Institute of Science Mechwarrior Training Manual''' by Blaine Pardoe. | '''New Avalon Institute of Science Mechwarrior Training Manual''' by Blaine Pardoe. | ||
: BattleMech tactics presented as a student text. | : BattleMech tactics presented as a student text. | ||
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<div style="clear:both"></div> | <div style="clear:both"></div> | ||
| − | ==StarDrive | + | ==StarDrive (February 1988)== |
| − | + | 52 pages. | |
| − | + | *BattleMech Tech: A Muster of Mini-'Mechs - Six [[BattleMech#Ultralight|Ultralight]] BattleMech Designs (by John A. Theisen) | |
| − | : | + | **JNR-7P ''[[Junior (StarDrive)|Junior]]'' |
| − | + | **SLP-2U ''[[Slowpoke]]'' | |
| − | + | **STL-7D ''[[Stiletto (StarDrive)|Stiletto]]'' (not to be confused with the unrelated [[canonical]] STO-series ''[[Stiletto]]'' 'Mech introduced in ''[[Technical Readout: 3067]]'') | |
| − | + | **APL-1J ''[[Apollo (StarDrive)|Apollo]]'' (not to be confused with the unrelated [[canonical]] APL-series ''[[Apollo (BattleMech)|Apollo]]'' 'Mech introduced in ''[[Technical Readout: 3055]]'') | |
| − | + | **FXR-4R ''[[Foxfire]]'' | |
| − | + | **MBSDR-I ''[[Ambassador]]'' | |
| − | + | *New Avalon Institute of Science: Part 4: Tactics for BattleMechs (by Blaine Pardoe) | |
| − | + | *Inventive Ordnance: Mine Warfare (by [[J.M. Svaib Jr.]]) | |
| − | + | *''[[Technical Readout: 3026]]'' & ''[[House Kurita (The Draconis Combine)]]'' presentation | |
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* ''[[House Steiner (The Lyran Commonwealth)]]'' & ''[[BattleTech Manual: The Rules of Warfare]]'' review/presentation | * ''[[House Steiner (The Lyran Commonwealth)]]'' & ''[[BattleTech Manual: The Rules of Warfare]]'' review/presentation | ||
| + | |||
| + | ==Gallery== | ||
| + | <gallery> | ||
| + | Image:Stardate45cov.jpg|right|''Stardate'', Issue 5/6 | ||
| + | Image:Stardatev3-1.jpg|right|210px|''Stardate'', Vol. 3 Number 1 | ||
| + | Image:Stardatev3-2.jpg|right|210px|''Stardate'', Vol. 3 Number 2 | ||
| + | Image:Stardatev3-3.jpg|right|210px|''Stardate'', Vol. 3 Number 3 | ||
| + | Image:Stardate vol3 issue4.png|right|210px|''Stardate'', Vol. 3 Number 4 | ||
| + | Image:Stardate vol3 issue5.png|right|210px|''Stardate'', Vol. 3 Number 5 | ||
| + | Stardate vol3 issue6.jpg|right|210px|''Stardate'', Vol. 3 Number 6 | ||
| + | Image:StarDrive.jpg|right|210px|''StarDrive'' | ||
| + | </gallery> | ||
==Notes== | ==Notes== | ||