I had some criticism of how MG's seemed to be handled in beta gameplay videos. Especially regarding deployment being made easier. But after using them myself I think:
+The kinder deployment system (strafing along cover, turning while prone) is not as gamey as I thought. It helps a lot in achieving the player's deployment intentions.
+Firing sounds. Incredibly realistic and immersive (AKG 271 audiophile headphones, Audigy 2).
+Being able to crouch behind cover while deploy, and even perform actions on the MG at the same time.
+Pivoting at the front bipods (except when prone position). Finally.
+Static MGs are another big notch better in every way than the regular MGs. With slight tilt when moving sideways and intertia that both stabilizes the gun, makes it less twitchy/responsive, conveying a very good impression of having MASS. Can look along the barrel instead of being forced to look through the sights. I wish this was also applicable to the regular MGs.
+They are heavy - tire rapidly when running with them. Great.
+Suppression effects (need to explore this more) - the MG is great at suppressing.
+The MG gunners will SAY automatically that they suppressed someone. This is awesome! Nearby friendlies can use this information to their advantage.
+- Animations (reload, barrel change) are good but not perfect. They have a tendency to have parts perfectly static/rigid which looks unnatural. Just a little bit of 'imperfect' nudging, tilting, 'it looks heavy and it is displaced a bit from the player trying to find the right position/grip/latch etc' would make it perfect. Haven't played RO1 in ages but in "Darkest Hour" most/all German weapons had top notch animations (American/Brits had rigid/static to an extreme).
-Very hard to hit anything if the framerate is not 60+.
-I'm not very good at using them it appears, my own fault mostly. The constant muzzle climb, framerate problems making it hard to shoot properly, small magazines, their huge muzzle flashes, noise, tracers and difficulty deploying with good cover and camuflage. Simply put, I get picked off by anyone with any weapon at almost any range. Still trying to learn how to use the built in communication to coordinate with team mates better.
-? I also need to learn how to use their powerful cartridges to shoot through weak cover. I presume it works and I just don't have a good feel for it yet.
-? MG34 recoil while standing is the one thing that makes me wonder. But maybe they were like that.
-Other machinegunners seem to only try to use them for killing, probably misunderstanding their full tactical repertoire.
-The lack of squad communication/coordination and non-intuitive tactical overlay/maps makes squad tactics lacking. But I am hopeful players will learn, and TW design guys will make improvements to the UI.
-Does not pivot at the front bipod when prone.
-Won't deploy or can't move it when deployed on certain ground. Kind of a bummer to find out you can't aim at those three guys that just rushed around the corner, coming at you.
