3030MUX is an exciting game based on real time, player versus player strategy and combat. The exact details of the setup of the game (known as the scenario) changes from time to time, but the basics stay the same. Usually, players are split up into factions, or teams. There is usually somewhere between 2 and 4 factions.

Each faction has an inventory of combat units. These vary, and usually include at least 'Mechs and Tanks. You may also find VTOLs (helicopters), naval units, and BattleSuits.

They use these units to go out on ops (operations) to take control of areas of the main map. Each faction has a base on the map, and usually they are on opposite sides. By claiming areas of the map, the faction earns money and resources, which allows them to build or buy more combat units. It's a pretty straightforward goal, but there are many different methods of doing this. You can learn the ins and outs of the economy when you have been playing for a little bit longer.

The goal of all this is, of course, is to induce combat, which is the fun of the game. If you are familiar with the FASA board game of BattleTech, then combat will be an old hat to you (although there are many challenges involved in real-time combat that are not an issue in the board game).

Let's go on to the next section to learn more about how to start playing 3030MUX.