Veteran gamers have fond memories of the original Solaris VII boxed set for classic Battletech, and now Wizkids is revisiting the homeworld of battlemech arena combat with new rules and cards. In the last two years, the company abandoned the collectible aspect of Mechwarrior (their click-based version of tabletop mech warfare), releasing non-random "action packs" with preset units instead of randomized booster packs. 2007's Solaris VII action packs allowed players to fight it out on arena hex maps, but a few weeks ago, Wizkids released a free rules update that could make Solaris VII so much more.

First up: the Solaris VII Campaign Rules. In addition to being an overall update to the Mechwarrior rules system, adjusted for hex maps instead of open terrain, it also allows your arena pilots to have ongoing careers. Create a stable of mechs, track your winnings and build your reputation with the rabid fans of giant robot combat. Since damaged mechs will need expensive repairs, and destroyed mechs will need to be replaced, battles will involve much more strategy than the old "last one standing" matches. Better still, the rules have been streamlined, so a mech vs. mech battle can be played in 20 minutes. To facilitate Solaris VII campaigns, Wizkids also designed a spreadsheet that will make it easy to track your stable's progress.

As if that weren't enough cool free stuff, they're also offering a full set of Rally Cards in pdf format, with an open license to print them for use in the arenas. The Rally Cards represent unexpected events or maneuvers that help keep arena combat fresh and unpredictable. If giant robot arena combat were real, I'd be a season ticket holder. Image by: Wizkids.

The MechWarrior Solaris VII Campaign pack materials are now available! [Wizkids]

The basic Anti-Monitor action pack comes with one giant Anti-Monitor figure, a few other figures and a map. Anti himself has three different levels of power representing his awesome cosmic might in the original Crisis On Infinite Earths. The con exclusive Anti-Monitor will represent his more recent incarnation as a member of the Sinestro Corps. In addition to a repaint and a corps emblem on his chest, he'll have a totally different combat dial with reduced power levels, making him easier to fit onto a standard team. Image by: Wizkids.

Announcing 2008 Convention Exclusives! [Wizkids]