The countdown on MekTek Studios’ website is counting down the hours to the release of the FULL MechWarrior 4 (plus all expansion packs) … FREE.

From a quote left by the forum admin:

“In honor of BattleTech’s 25th anniversary, Smith and Tinker has authorized MekTek.net and MekTek Studios to distribute MechWarrior 4 (along with its expansion packs) completely free. For years, MekTek.net has been the central point for online distribution of MechWarrior 4 expansion packs. Now they can provide the core game free to the fans as well. Keep an eye on BattleTech.com – the free download will be available soon!”

He also noted about the new franchise reboot coming as well:

“MechWarrior fans have been hoping, praying and anticipating a new game in the famed franchise ever since the last expansion pack for MechWarrior 4 was released in 2002. Now, seven years later, their prayers have been answered. IGN has the very first details about MechWarrior reboot that is currently in production at Smith and Tinker and Piranha games. Yes, that’s right, reboot. Instead of this game becoming MechWarrior 5, the developers have decided to completely re-launch the entire franchise, calling this new title MechWarrior.”

Personally, I can’t wait :D

Lets admit it, we made games for fun in school, in our free time when bored, or as a collaboration with friends. But now, its time to get serious… now is the time to learn how to make money doing what you have been doing for free until now.

Finding sponsorship, hosting and exposure for your game are the top three struggles you will face when trying to bring your work to the masses (and getting a little cash in your pocket). There are more flash hosts than you can shake a stick at… Kongregate, Newgrounds, Armor Games… all my usual stomping grounds.

Freelance Flash Games News has compiled a list of articles and resources that may be a worthwhile read for the up-and-coming developer. Where to sign up, what to provide, and how to discuss money with sponsors are all covered.

Take a brief read over these articles, or visit the parent article, if you happen to be interested in flash game development:

• Learn how to email a sponsor
• Sitelock your games so they can’t be stolen
• Get feedback on your game and use those tips to improve it
• Discover why you need to complete your game 100% before submitting it to sponsors
• Improve your graphics by hiring an artist
• Find out how to negotiate with a sponsor for higher bids

[via Freelance Flash Games News]