Stalker STK-M

Overview
The Stalker STK-M, aka "Misery", features a first for the Stalker line: a ballistic Hardpoint. Combined with a generous number of energy hardpoints, the Misery is just as capable of unleashing punishing damage at long range with less heat build up.

Like all Hero 'Mechs, the -M can only be purchased with. The -M provides the same 30% bonus that all Hero 'Mechs do. Unlike most Hero 'Mechs, it does not come with Dual Heat Sinks, an XL Engine, or even Endo-Steel.

Strengths
The Misery focuses almost exclusively on direct fire weaponry, weapons which are emphasized on most Stalker loadouts. The addition of a single ballistic hardpoint gives the STK-M the option to use large ballistic weapons like the Gauss Rifle or Autocannon 20 to mitigate some of the incredible heat buildup caused by most Stalker builds. Additionally, it has a 10% boost to both the turning rate and acceleration found on most Stalkers.

Weaknesses
The Misery shares a few glaring weaknesses common to all Stalker models, terribly torso range and slow turn speed. It also has the fewest number of weapon hardpoints of any Stalker, mostly at the cost of missile weapons. The single missile hardpoint in the right torso seems to almost be an after thought and will likely be unused in most configurations. The new ballistic hardpoint may also become a glaring weakness when Gauss Rifles are installed there. The side torsos of Stalkers are notoriously easy to hit. Should a fragile and explosive Gauss Rifle be installed there, it will most assuredly become the primary target of a competent enemy. Atlas pilots are well familiar with this problem.