Werewolf Variants

The Werewolf is a more specialised quad than the widely manufactured Packrat; while it has less cargo space it offers much higher performance. Its name refers partly to its low-slung, predatory appearance, and partly to the ease with which it can be refitted for combat roles.

1 Desert Rod: In its civilian guise the Werewolf confers considerable prestige on those able to afford it. In spite of its simple construction – sheet metal fixed to a welded frame – it houses a large and powerful engine, usually the long straight eight also used in the six-wheeled Warhound. Dust filters are fitted as standard, while the large wheels increase ground clearance and make engine access easier. The cabin comfortably seats four, though more passengers and/or equipment can be carried externally.

2 Scout: With a few minor modifications the Werewolf becomes an effective scout. Though it burns more fuel than a bike or trike, it is faster than either in open terrain and provides more cargo space, protection and firepower. This model has a larger fender to counter thick brush and scrub and a 12.7mm machine gun mounted on a turret ring. The rear seats have been removed, giving a standing gunner a 360-degree fire arc. Where less lethal methods are required the staves on the fender and wheel hubs can disable other vehicles. These variants are well suited to reconnaissance and patrol duties but are not armoured well enough to survive prolonged firefights.

3 Light Assault: This variant is a true armoured car. Heavier steel plates are fitted to improve resilience and the standard tyres are replaced with stronger armoured substitutes. The cabin shutters can be lowered to increase protection or raised to improve visibility. The main armament consists of a 20mm cannon in an open-topped barbette. These variants may have additional guns, enclosed turrets and powered traverse systems that boost combat effectiveness while reducing range and speed.

4 Light Support: This variant acts as a small piece of self-propelled artillery. Its rockets are less accurate than shells, but are launched from lightweight tubes instead of heavy gun barrels, generate less recoil, and can be unleashed in rapid salvos. Most Wasteland clans use crude solid-fuelled rockets that leave distinctive smoke trails, forcing these units to move after firing to avoid reprisals. When equipped with more advanced missiles these variants pose a serious threat to sophisticated tanks and aircraft.

5 Pursuit: In open desert areas, mobility is paramount, and a number of unorthodox methods are used to increase some vehicles’ performance. This Werewolf is powered by a jet turbine engine which necessitates a longer chassis and more highly refined and volatile fuel. Its spoilers are made from ailerons most likely taken from the same aircraft. The 12.7mm chaingun fitted to the lowered cab delivers high volumes of fire to make up for the inaccuracy usually suffered at high speeds. Where possible, tracer rounds are used to improve hit probability and chances of igniting targets.

6 Public Address: This Werewolf carries a radio transmitter and rack of four loudspeakers. These can be used to broadcast propaganda or negotiate during standoffs or sieges. Such duties are usually assigned to well practiced, charismatic speakers; the tinted bulletproof windows offer a degree of protection as well as anonymity, while the powerful engine permits a fast exit if an audience’s mood turns sour!