The long-awaited return of FromSoftware’s Armored Core series is here with Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon. This game, which combines the studio’s expertise in mech games with the signature action gameplay they’ve become synonymous for, offers a fresh experience for both veterans and newcomers to the series. We checked out the PlayStation 5 version.
The premise of Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is set on the planet ISB2262 Rubicon, where you awaken as Pilot 621, guided by an unknown figure named Handler Walter. As a mercenary, you’ve undergone Human Augmentation to become more efficient in piloting your Armored Core, a powerful mech. Meanwhile, the planet itself is embroiled in a conflict as different corporations vie for control of the precious Coral, a valuable energy source. The game’s story unfolds through radio communications, maintaining a simple yet effective narrative style. The gradual reveal of the mysterious Coral substance adds depth to the plot, while your interaction with the voice of Ayre, a Rubiconian, enhances the storytelling.
Armored Core VI offers a mission-based structure with over 35 levels divided into five chapters. These missions come from various factions on Rubicon, providing a diverse range of objectives, from defeating enemy troops to capturing bases and more. Players can even make choices between missions that impact the story and ending, encouraging replayability. Boss battles in particular are a highlight, delivering thrilling encounters that require strategic thinking and precision. The game’s difficulty is reminiscent of FromSoftware’s signature challenging gameplay though, providing a satisfying level of toughness but also a steep learning curve for newcomers.
Controls in Armored Core VI are well-designed, with intuitive mechanics for piloting your mech. The combination of jumping and dashing offers mobility and tactical advantages. Each shoulder button corresponds to a weapon, and the lock-on system helps with aiming in the midst of chaotic battles. Healing is limited, adding an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay. Mech customization is a significant feature as well, allowing players to tweak their Armored Core’s loadout for different playstyles. Balancing parameters like weight, health, energy, and defense ensures that every build remains competitive, even if the gameplay style can change drastically between loadouts.
The game introduces a rock-paper-scissors system for ammunition types (kinetic, energy, and explosive), encouraging players to adapt their loadouts for each situation. Acquiring new weapons involves a mix of finding parts during missions and purchasing them in stores, so it pays to explore if you want to lessen the amount of grind. The abundance of weapons and parts in the game offers plenty of options for experimentation too, making it rewarding to do so.
Armored Core VI primarily focuses on a single-player experience with no co-op mode, similar to Sekiro. Players looking for assistance during challenging boss battles will need to rely on improving their skills and mech loadouts. However, there’s a PvP mode called Nexus, offering 1v1 or 3v3 battles against other players, which runs smoothly and provides enjoyable competitive gameplay. The Arena mode allows players to face off against mechs from the story in 1v1 battles.
In terms of performance, the game offers options for both quality and frame rate modes. The frame rate mode provides a stable 60fps experience, making it the preferred choice. Ray tracing is also included, enhancing the visual appeal in garage customization scenes. The game’s graphics strike a balance between an old-school aesthetic and impressive visual presentations. The diverse levels feature varied color palettes and create an immersive atmosphere. Players can even customize the type of metal for their Armored Core, adding a layer of personalization that literally shines when all the bells and whistles are turned on.
Another standout feature of Armored Core VI is its exceptional soundtrack, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the game. The music, reminiscent of films like Terminator with its dark and energetic sound, complements the action and storytelling beautifully, while the voice acting also contributes to the game’s immersive quality.
In conclusion, Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is another standout title from FromSoftware. It features an intriguing story, engaging conversations, diverse missions, and memorable boss battles. The game’s old-school mission-based structure offers ample customization options for Armored Cores, ensuring replayability. The exceptional soundtrack, pleasing graphics, and enjoyable PvP mode make it a complete package for mech game enthusiasts and the best we’ve seen this far from the series.
Score: 9.0/10
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