The Best Armored Core Games to Play Before Fires of Rubicon Comes Out

Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon is on the horizon, but for newcomers to the series, where do you start? This guide highlights the best Armored Core titles to experience before diving into the latest installment.

The Armored Core Legacy

FromSoftware, renowned for its Souls-like games, boasts a rich history with another iconic franchise: Armored Core. Spanning decades, this mech-combat series plunges players into post-apocalyptic Earth, where they assume the role of mercenaries, fighting for the highest bidder.

As a mercenary, your primary objective is client satisfaction. Missions range from eliminating rebel forces and scouting enemy strongholds to pursuing high-value targets like trains or precious cargo. Successful missions yield funds crucial for mech maintenance (including ammunition) and crucial upgrades. Master the battlefield, and you'll be equipped with cutting-edge technology. Fail, and your mission ends.

By 2013, the Armored Core series comprised five main entries, along with numerous spin-offs, totaling sixteen games. Armored Core 1 and 2 share a unique storyline, while Armored Core 3, 4, and 5 each feature distinct narratives. Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon, launching August 25, 2023, will likely establish a new storyline. To prepare for this exciting new chapter, Game8 presents a curated list of the best Armored Core games to play beforehand.