does Microsoft have the liscence to "Gaming Aids" is the question, or is it strictly video games.
Rick had to deal with Microsoft and Topps for the HMP license, so I'm guessing yes.
It isn't in microsoft's interest or whoever else owns the rights to whatever that will grow the BattleTech universe? It benefits everyone who owns a piece. So gather them together and pitch the idea.
It's a total guess here, but I'd imagine that CGL has already tried that route. Whether it be limited funds on their part, licensing issue from Topps/MS, or whatever, it clearly hasn't happened to date. Additionally, you already have a similar existing tool in MegaMek, which has to exist in a very weird limbo of fanproject but sorta-kinda-not. MS hasn't seen much value in using that license (beyond the existing MWO and MW:T) to date. I'm not really sure what has changed in the interim.
Don't get me wrong, I think the idea has strong merit. But the application of said idea? I'm not so sure that's a realistic expectation. On top of all of that, such a tool may very well infringe on the HMP license. In an ideal world, that license would be ending and some actual progress could be made on a such a helpful tool. Again, I wouldn't hold your breath. Even SSW has begun to fall behind and run out of steam, largely due to only a single person willing to put in the coding work (and some weird proprietary mindsets from the MM developers). Rick's own situation with HMP seems similar, in regards to available staff and time.
