FromSoftware and Bandai Namco have shared a good, long Armored Core VI gameplay preview trailer, revealing all about the upcoming mecha combat sequel. Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is coming out for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Xbox One and PC on 25th August.
Following on from the story trailer last week, this gameplay preview drops us off on the fictional planet Rubicon 3, where different factions are fighting over the mysterious new substance and energy source known as Coral. You missions are delivered to you by Handler Walter over comms, but it’s up to you to navigate the multi-layered stages in a way that you see fit.
Your Armored Core comes with jet thruster-enhanced movement, skimming across the planet surface at speed and using them to dodge incoming attacks. You have up to four weapons – one for each arm and shoulder – that can be used simultaneously in battle, as well as being able to close for melee attacks. Assault Boost is a core ability to close the gap and ambush enemies, as well as launching yourself up into the air.
Some other, tougher enemies can pull off some similar tricks, or simply fly around in the case of a vast PCA heavy combat helicopter. If you deal impact damage to their Attitude Control System, you can put them out of action by staggering them, and enhancing the damage you deal subsequently. There’s also some truly enormous mechanised weapon platforms like the Strider that you’ll have to battle and take down piece-by-piece. The video showed downing the Strider by taking out a weak spot on a leg, opening up the ability to reach other weaknesses on its top surface.
Some missions will also partner you with ally ACs, and objectives will shift from annihilating enemy forces, defending allies, and taking on named rival AC pilots that will prove to be a particularly stern test.
The trailer also showed some of the many parts that you can swap out at the Assembly. There’s weapons, frame parts including head and core, and internal parts for power management. You can beef up your AC, or shift the playstyle based around different weaponry and improved stats.
Everything shown looks like fast and furious mecha action, that I’ve no doubt fans of the Armored Core series cannot wait to get their hands on. Thankfully we’re just one month away from the game’s launch.
