The affordable BattleTech Essentials starter set is coming to Target

The latest starter set for BattleTech, one of the biggest names in tabletop gaming, is now available for pre-order exclusively at Target. The $24.99 BattleTech Essentials box contains everything you need to play and provides an affordable entry point into the larger BattleTech franchise. Catalyst Game Labs plans to ship pre-orders and make the game available in Target stores on June 18.

The Essentials box contains two pre-assembled models available right out of the box, in addition to a double-sided map, dice, a quick start guide, reference cards and some extra literature to get you started in the world of BattleTech.

The BattleTech Essentials box joins a few starter kits already available from Catalyst Game Labs and offers more options for experienced and novice players alike. If you need more material, the $24.99 BattleTech: beginners box comes with a pair of unpainted, miniature BattleMechs, an 18-by-22-inch double-sided game card, dice, record sheets, and some extra goodies.

BattleTech: a game of armored combat offers a more comprehensive experience, with seven minis in addition to a pair of 18-by-22-inch double-sided cards, registration sheets, pilot cards, and a host of extras to introduce you to the Inner Sphere. The core box is usually $59.99, but you can pick one up at the moment Amazon or walmart for about $48.

The coolest thing about these starter sets is that there’s very little overlap in terms of what’s in each box. This means you won’t get duplicate minis or reference cards if you later decide to invest in other sets.