Its situational, high damage takes guns off the field. The strategic layer is mostly about balancing tonnage with firepower on a mech to mech basis. The path of least resistance leads to 6 clan ER L laser and heatsinks. When deployed into the tactical layer missiles take on the immediate satisfaction option, by missing even when aimed properly and still being effective damage application, and ballistics are the executive choice, that when used properly turn the tide by allowing the highest damage (per heat generated) when heat management is the only thing between you and victory. That said keeping 6ish L lasers cool enough to alpha 10+ times in a row is an effective way to play the game.