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Unofficial or Non‐Canon Content Policy

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Dave N edited this page Sep 8, 2024 · 2 revisions

Introduction

When people want to help, we often get asked, "I'd like to do/add..." This policy outlines what we will and won’t do for content and code in our projects, which include MegaMek (MM), MegaMekLab (MML), and MekHQ (MHQ). The BattleTech universe is vast, and the community’s creativity knows no bounds. That’s why we’re laying out what you can expect regarding content integration. This policy explains what we’ll consider adding and what we won’t, ensuring that we maintain consistency with the official BattleTech experience.

For MegaMek (MM) and MegaMekLab (MML)

Our intention for both MegaMek and MegaMekLab is to stay true to the core rules of BattleTech.

What We Won't Do

  • Unofficial Gameplay Rules: We strictly adhere to the official rules as written and won’t be adding any unofficial gameplay rules that aren’t found in the core rulebooks.
  • Unofficial Equipment: We’re no longer integrating unofficial equipment. While these custom additions might add some fun to your own games, they don’t align with the official BattleTech universe. Plus, here’s the kicker: our equipment code is a bit like a temperamental old ‘Mek—it’s complicated, and when something goes wrong, it’s the dev team that ends up in the repair bay. We often don’t have full insight into how this unofficial gear was meant to function, which makes it even trickier to support when things inevitably go sideways.
  • Unofficial Data and Graphics: We are also no longer adding unofficial units or unit packs. Outside of missing sprites or camos, we aren't interested in moving away from our current sprite or camo schemes. We are always open to new maps (boards).
  • Unsanctioned Graphical Enhancements: Large and complex graphical or UI/UX improvements that aren’t discussed with the dev team before submitting a pull request won’t be accepted.

MekHQ

With MekHQ, we take a more flexible approach. As of summer 2024, we're transitioning from Field Manual: Mercenaries (Revised) rules to Campaign Operations rules. Where official rules exist, especially in Campaign Operations or A Time of War, we aim to build on those rather than implement entirely new content.

While we all love unofficial content for the variety it brings, sticking to official rules helps maintain consistency. Our focus is to expand on what's already established in the BattleTech universe, while still allowing room for creativity where needed.

What We Will Consider

  • Unofficial Rules for StratCon (AtB): For those who enjoy StratCon/Against the Bot, we may consider unofficial rules on a case-by-case basis, but they must align with or complement our vision for the system, which is fully developed by the MegaMek team. While we're open to creative ideas, any additions must respect the structure we've built.
  • Unofficial Data and Graphics: All universe data in MekHQ needs to be based on available canon material. In the absence of canon material, we'll stay with our generated information.
  • Graphical Enhancements: Like in the other programs, large and complex graphical or UI/UX improvements that aren’t discussed with the dev team before submitting a pull request won’t be accepted.

General Policy for All Projects

What We Will Do

  • Consider Community Feedback and Review Exceptions: We value and often seek community input, especially through polls on our Discord. While we take feedback seriously and consider well-reasoned suggestions, the development team reserves the right to make final decisions based on what best aligns with the project's goals and vision.

  • Extras Repositories: You are always welcome to open data pull requests (PRs) against the "Extras" repositories for content found in the "Data" directory of MegaMek Extras or MekHQ Extras. This content is optional, and players are welcome to download it and add it to their games. But all content in those repos is not supported by the dev team and is a "Use at your own risk."

What We Won't Do

  • Compromise Game Integrity or Player Experience: We will never add features or content that could compromise the authenticity of the BattleTech experience. Preserving the integrity of the official universe is our top priority.

Summary

  • Official content and rules take precedence over unofficial content and rules. If you have ideas around things, please reach out to the dev team on the Discord to discuss. As always, the dev team reserves the right to break or bend our policies.

Note: This policy is subject to change as we continue to evolve the project.
Last updated: September 7th, 2024

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