Review of Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon

Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon is an exciting addition to the Armored Core franchise that offers stunning graphics, a user-friendly mechanical robot building system, and entertaining vehicular combat gameplay. FromSoftware has once again delivered a winning game that is sure to please fans.

However, newcomers to the Armored Core series may find themselves struggling to fully enjoy the game due to its narrow focus and lack of open-world exploration. Unlike FromSoftware’s recent titles like Elden Ring and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, Armored Core 6 is a more linear and sectioned-off game. This may come as a surprise to players who are used to the freedom of open-world games.

But despite this limitation, the gameplay loop of Armored Core 6 is simple and enjoyable. Players choose their mech’s loadout, complete missions, and return to the mission select menu. The game never feels like it’s wasting the player’s time, although some missions do repeat locations.

One area where Armored Core 6 excels is in its mission variety. The game offers a range of mission types, from one-on-one fights to underground exploration and base attacks. While most missions involve destruction in some form, they still provide a satisfying variety of gameplay experiences. Additionally, the game allows players to farm completed missions for money to upgrade their weapons and armor, reducing the frustration of being stuck on a difficult mission.

The game’s graphics are another highlight, with impressive explosions and combat effects. While some terrain graphics may be basic, the visual impact of the game’s combat more than makes up for it. From small tank explosions to massive boss battles, the combat visuals are a sight to behold.

The mech customization in Armored Core 6 is also exceptional. Players can mix and match various parts and weapons to create their own unique machines. Each part carries its own style and benefits, allowing for a wide range of mech designs. The game caters to different playstyles, whether players prefer long-range sniping or up-close melee combat.

However, the upgrade system in Armored Core 6 can be a bit of a double-edged sword. While players have the freedom to choose their weapons and armor, some weapons and parts become obsolete as the game progresses. This can be frustrating for players who have grown attached to certain weapons or parts. But the game does offer the ability to easily replace parts and transfer paint jobs and decals, mitigating the disappointment of having to switch out favorite-looking pieces.

Armored Core 6 also features a single-player campaign that tells a solid if average story. While it may not have standout moments, the game’s fun gameplay and engaging missions keep players hooked. The chapter-ending missions, in particular, stand out for their varied action set-pieces and story progression.

The multiplayer aspect of Armored Core 6 adds another layer of excitement to the game. Players can battle against each other in 1v1 or 3v3 modes, showcasing their mech designs and skills. The chaos and variety of human opponents make for exhilarating gameplay moments. Additionally, players can upload and share their loadouts, allowing others to replicate or judge their designs.

Overall, Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon is a must-play for fans of the franchise and a great entry point for newcomers to the genre. The game offers a visually stunning experience, enjoyable gameplay loop, and a high level of customization. FromSoftware’s focus on both single-player and multiplayer aspects ensures that players will have a hard time putting their mechs down.