FromSoftware's revitalized mech action game, Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon, promises to steer away from the studio's famed Soulsborne motif, instead reviving an adrenaline-pumping mech-based action gameplay last seen in their oeuvre over a decade ago. As the blistering Fires of Rubicon escalate, we get an intriguing preview into FromSoftware's universe of mechanized warfare.
The narrative centers on the exploits of 621, a bioengineered humanoid built solely to navigate mechs under the directive of an overseer, Walter. The protagonist is cast into a universe torn apart by the struggle for control over a mysterious yet volatile resource – the Coral – found only on one celestial body: Rubicon.
Impressively, FromSoftware has managed to skillfully engineer the physics of the mechs in Armored Core VI. The metallic Goliaths are heavy, showcasing a tangible sense of mass, yet still capable of nimble movements across all kinds of terrains, from expansive industrial landscapes to sandstorm-hit deserts and icy mountain terrains. This design dichotomy beautifully represents the weight of a behemoth metal monster while incorporating the agility of bird bones, achieving a fine balance in motion dynamics.
With the focus not solely on dodging and attacking, combat in Armored Core VI presents a calculated, strategic encounter. The mechs, equipped with a diverse arsenal ranging from projectile weapons, energy swords, to missile launchers, require a thoughtful selection of weapon types tailored to exploit enemy vulnerabilities. A well-aimed onslaught at these weak points can potentially stagger the enemy, providing an opportunity for a decisive, final attack.
