The Armored Core series has a long and storied history, with over 20 games released on a variety of platforms. While all of the games in the series have their own unique strengths and weaknesses, there are a few that stand out as being the most popular and critically acclaimed.
Armored Core 3 (2002)
Armored Core 3 is set in the year 2060, twenty years after the events of Armored Core 2. The world is now in a state of chaos, with corporations and private militaries constantly vying for power. The player takes on the role of a mercenary pilot, hired by various factions to complete missions.
The game features a deep and engaging story, with multiple endings that are determined by the player’s choices throughout the game. The gameplay is challenging, with a focus on fast-paced action and teamwork. The game also features a wide variety of customization options, allowing players to create their own unique Armored Core.
Armored Core: Nexus (2004)
Armored Core: Nexus is a standalone expansion pack for Armored Core 3. It features new missions, new weapons, and new parts. The game also introduced a number of gameplay balance changes, making it a more polished and enjoyable experience than its predecessor.
One of the most notable new features in Armored Core: Nexus is the ability to fly. This allows players to take their Armored Cores to new heights and explore new areas. The game also features a new type of mission, the “Arena Mission.” These missions pit the player against waves of increasingly difficult enemies.
Armored Core V (2012)
Armored Core V is a return to form for the series, with a focus on challenging gameplay and deep customization. The game features a new story, new missions, and new parts. It also introduces a number of new gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to boost and the ability to use melee attacks.
One of the most significant changes in Armored Core V is the new Boost system. This system allows players to temporarily increase the speed and agility of their Armored Cores. This can be used to gain an advantage in battle or to explore the game’s vast environments.
Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon (2023)
Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is the most recent entry in the series, and it has been praised by critics for its return to the series’ roots. The game features deep customization options, challenging gameplay, and a dark and atmospheric world.
One of the most notable new features in Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is the new “Overdrive” system. This system allows players to temporarily increase the power and performance of their Armored Cores. However, using Overdrive will come at a cost, as it will drain the Armored Core’s energy reserves.
Another new feature in Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is the new “Arena Mode.” This mode allows players to compete against each other in online battles. Arena Mode features a variety of different rules and objectives, making it a great way to test your skills against other players.
In addition to the four games listed above, there are a number of other Armored Core games that are popular with fans of the series. These include:
Armored Core 2 (2000)
Armored Core 2 is the sequel to the original Armored Core game. It features a new story, new missions, and new parts. The game also introduced a number of new gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to dual-wield weapons and the ability to use melee attacks.
Armored Core 2 is considered to be one of the best games in the series. It features challenging gameplay, deep customization options, and a memorable story.
Silent Line: Armored Core (2003)
Silent Line: Armored Core is a spin-off game in the Armored Core series. It is set in a different universe than the main Armored Core games, and it features a different gameplay style.
Silent Line: Armored Core is a first-person shooter game, with a focus on stealth and close-quarters combat. The player controls an Armored Core that is equipped with a variety of non-lethal weapons, such as tranquilizer darts and stun guns.
Silent Line: Armored Core is a unique game in the Armored Core series. It features a different gameplay style and a different setting than the main Armored Core games. However, it is still a well-made game with challenging gameplay and deep customization options.
Armored Core: Last Raven (2005)
Armored Core: Last Raven is a sequel to Armored Core 3. It features a new story, new missions, and new parts. The game also introduced a number of new gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to use “Overdrive” mode.
Overdrive mode allows players to temporarily increase the power and performance of their Armored Cores. However, using Overdrive mode will come at a cost, as it will drain the Armored Core’s energy reserves.
Armored Core: Last Raven is considered to be one of the best games in the series. It features challenging gameplay, deep customization options, and a memorable story.
Armored Core: Verdict Day (2013)
Armored Core: Verdict Day is a sequel to Armored Core V. It features a new story, new missions, and new parts. The game also introduced a number of new gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to use “Boost” mode.
Boost mode allows players to temporarily increase the speed and agility of their Armored Cores. This can be used to gain an advantage in battle or to explore the game’s vast environments.
Armored Core: Verdict Day is a solid entry in the Armored Core series. It features challenging gameplay, deep customization options, and a memorable story.
Why are These Armored Core Games So Popular?
There are a number of reasons why these Armored Core games are so popular with fans of the series. First and foremost, they feature challenging and rewarding gameplay. The Armored Core games are known for their fast-paced action and their unforgiving difficulty. This can be a turn-off for some players, but it is also one of the things that makes the games so appealing to their hardcore fans.
Second, the Armored Core games offer a deep level of customization. Players can customize their Armored Cores to suit their individual playstyles. This includes everything from choosing the right weapons and armor to tuning the Armored Core’s performance. This level of customization allows players to create a truly unique and personal Armored Core.
Finally, the Armored Core games feature immersive and atmospheric worlds. The games are set in a dystopian future where corporations and private militaries hold more power than governments. This creates a dark and gritty world that is perfect for the Armored Core games.
If you are a fan of mecha games, or if you are looking for a challenging and rewarding video game experience, then the Armored Core series is definitely worth checking out. The four games listed above are some of the best games in the series, and they are a great place to start.
