Exploring the Highs of Gaming: A Look at Last Year’s Standouts
Last year was a veritable banquet for gamers, offering a smorgasbord of new titles that captivated audiences and enriched digital libraries. The gaming landscape was dotted with heavy hitters such as Baldur’s Gate 3 and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, alongside cherished indie gems like Jusant, Cocoon, and Lethal Company. Among these, a personal standout was Armored Core 6, an August release that marked FromSoftware’s return to its mecha action series after a decade-long hiatus. FromSoftware, the creators behind the monumental Soulslike games, has nurtured the Armored Core series since the 90’s. Its latest iteration not only captivated fans but also snatched the Best Action Game award at The Game Awards.
For those who missed its initial release, Armored Core 6 is currently available on PC for a mere .69 at CDKeys, thanks to a spectacular deal. Xbox enthusiasts haven’t been left out, with discounts available for both US and UK gamers.
Unveiling the Mechanics of Armored Core 6
Although Armored Core 6 might have escaped the radar of the mainstream, given the franchise’s niche appeal, it’s a title that truly deserves attention. Venturing into the game without prior experience in the series, I found myself completely enamored with its offerings — and there’s a good chance you’ll experience the same adoration.
The game deviates from the expected Soulslike formula, opting for a linear campaign with defined missions and checkpoints, yet it retains the “tough but fair” philosophy that FromSoftware has refined over the years. The challenges, including the boss fights, are meticulously crafted, providing an immense sense of satisfaction upon mastery.
What sets Armored Core 6 apart is its emphasis on customization and adaptability. Unlike games such as Elden Ring, which may encourage consistency in character builds, Armored Core 6 inspires players to experiment with a plethora of unlockable mech parts. Each level introduces new threats, demanding strategic choices in mech configuration, from frame design to component selection. This variety in gameplay extends beyond mere combat, allowing players to tailor their approach and tactics to the challenges at hand.
The narrative unfolds on the war-ravaged planet of Rubicon 3, where factions vie for control over a potent energy resource known as Coral. You step into the cockpit as “621,” a mercenary pilot wrapped in the intrigue of the planet’s conflicts. The story, while gripping, won’t reveal its secrets here — but suffice it to say, it has an emotional core that resonates.
Complementing the gameplay are the auditory and visual effects that are nothing short of spectacular, along with the art direction that has become synonymous with FromSoftware. This time, though, the backdrop is the ashen remains of mechanized warfare rather than a dark fantasy realm. For those seeking competitive play, the game also offers both ranked and unranked PvP modes, including 1v1 and 3v3, as well as a new co-op mod for the PC version.
My in-depth review of Armored Core 6 covers all the intricacies of the game, but to put it succinctly: it’s a remarkable experience not to be missed. And with the current deals, it’s an opportune moment to dive in.
