During the Summer Game Fest, FromSoftware, the developer of Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon, provided a brief gameplay presentation with a focus on their goals for the sequel. One of their key objectives is to give players a profound sense of accomplishment by overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges. FromSoftware is renowned for creating punishingly difficult games that their dedicated fanbase craves, and Armored Core 6 is no exception.
Having had the chance to play through the prologue chapter of the game at a recent event, it's evident that Armored Core 6 remains true to the studio's signature difficulty while also offering an enjoyable experience. Despite being part of FromSoftware's non-Souls series, the game offers a considerable challenge.
The preview event allowed us to delve into the prologue chapter of Armored Core 6. For those unfamiliar with the Armored Core (AC) franchise but fans of FromSoftware's other games, there was some uncertainty about what to expect. With FromSoftware's surge in popularity, especially following the success of Elden Ring, some wondered if Armored Core would adopt Souls-like elements. However, the game maintains its identity as a mech-based franchise, although there are some design elements and mechanics reminiscent of Souls, like the "Repair Kit" functioning as a healing mechanism. Nonetheless, Armored Core 6 distinguishes itself with a host of new features.
Setting aside any comparisons to Souls, it's important to note that Armored Core 6 is not an open-world game. Players will spend a significant amount of time in menus, where they can purchase new components for their mechs, customize the loadout and appearance, and select missions (sorties) to embark on. These sorties can range from simple tasks, like eliminating specific enemy mechs, tanks, and artillery in a wide open space, to more intricate story missions culminating in epic boss battles.
In Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon, combat follows a fundamental structure that adapts to the mission's stakes and the player's build. Each AC (Armored Core) can carry up to four weapons, distributed across the hands and shoulders. Various weapons, such as machine guns, prioritize speed over damage, while shoulder-mounted rockets and laser rifles deliver more potent hits but at a slower rate. Notably, the game features a laser sword that adds an impressive touch to the gameplay.
Combat in the game is built on the foundation of weapons, but constructing a successful build involves considering numerous other factors. The weight of the AC is affected by the strength of the weapons and the resilience of armor pieces on the head, chest, legs, and arms. While increased weight results in a slower mech with reduced dodging ability, energy capacity serves as a finite resource that powers the AC's functions. Opting for powerful weapons might limit the energy available, requiring players to make trade-offs, such as sacrificing some armor protection.
Energy also plays a crucial role in determining the mech's agility, affecting how frequently it can boost or dodge. Heavier mechs consume more energy due to their components, leading to decreased maneuverability. However, they compensate by having a higher health pool, enabling them to withstand more damage. The game accommodates various mech designs, ranging from nimble Gundams to robust robo-tanks, providing players with the freedom to envision and create their preferred style of mech.
Before commencing a sortie in Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon, players have a multitude of factors to consider, making it overwhelming. The game offers extensive visual customization, adding significant depth to the experience. Once players engage in combat, they'll be immersed in a breathtaking dance of bullets, lasers, and missiles. Piloting the AC unit allows for exhilarating freedom of movement, characteristic of a mech shooter. To avoid damage from enemy projectiles, players must adeptly dodge in various directions.
However, dodging alone won't suffice, as players must also retaliate with their own attacks amidst the evasive maneuvers. Dealing with basic enemies is somewhat manageable yet mechanically engaging, as each weapon slot is linked to a distinct button, and staying airborne requires separate button presses or holds. As the game pits players against stronger enemy types, the challenges escalate.
The true excitement of Armored Core 6 arises when players confront formidable foes. Facing a barrage of projectiles akin to bullet hell games and simultaneously returning fire becomes a test of skill for any player. Achieving decisive kills is incredibly satisfying, especially with the stagger mechanic akin to Sekiro's posture break. If players fill a stagger bar quickly, enemies become susceptible to massive damage. However, players' AC units also possess a stagger bar, leaving them vulnerable if not cautious enough.
Similar to other FromSoftware games, Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon incorporates a risk/reward dynamic, where prioritizing offense can expose the AC to vulnerabilities, but seizing opportunities is crucial. The game offers challenging combat scenarios, and players should anticipate frequent defeats as they confront its tougher aspects. The boss fights, in particular, spare no leniency and demand strategic thinking throughout the encounters.
Nevertheless, overcoming these boss battles brings undeniable satisfaction, with the game even featuring slow-motion moments upon landing the final blow, allowing players to revel in their triumph. Thankfully, the game provides a forgiving checkpoint system and the ability to adjust builds before tackling bosses, encouraging experimentation due to the unique design of each boss.
One boss, for instance, requires attacking from specific angles since it is shielded in the front. Initially, an NPC mech assists in diverting the boss's attention, making it easier to inflict damage. However, as the fight progresses and the player is left alone, finding the right openings becomes challenging. Experimenting with various weapon configurations and agility profiles is necessary to discover the most effective approach. Each boss encounter offers diverse experiences, and players may find their preferred strategy for a particular fight.
As a newcomer to the Armored Core series, the connection to other FromSoftware games wasn't immediately apparent. Despite the recognizable difficulty and emphasis on timing, Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon stands out with its depth and allure, comparable to the Souls games. The game's extensive build options provide long-lasting appeal, while the epic and reflex-demanding boss fights add to its allure. The inclusion of intriguing lore hints adds another layer of interest. Ultimately, the game's moment-to-moment gameplay makes it an enjoyable and thrilling experience, reminiscent of other FromSoftware titles.
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