The evolution of the Armored Core series

blog.playstation.com:

When one thinks of FromSoftware, their mind likely jumps to its many action role-playing Souls/soulslike titles. While those games are a massive part of the studio’s legacy, the cult-favorite Armored Core series is equally crucial to its long-term success. By committing to consistent, almost yearly entries from 1997 to 2013, FromSoftware found its footing in the gaming world and learned many valuable lessons from the series that appear in its work today–the suite of customization options, the focus on worldbuilding, and the commitment to cater to a dedicated core audience.

Armored Core is a sci-fi action game series that blends high-speed mech combat with intricate simulation elements where you assemble a mech of your dreams using numerous weapons and parts. Like FromSoftware’s Souls-like titles, each Armored Core game is often set in its own distinct dystopian or post-apocalyptic universe, sometimes referencing past franchise themes, plot points, and characters. However, within each numbered entry is a narrative you can enjoy across multiple games and expansions.

With the upcoming release of Armored Core VI Fires of Rubicon, the long-running series returns to a sizable new audience with a fresh adventure after a 10-year absence. For those only familiar with FromSoftware’s Soulslike games, this Armored Core game will be their first, but it’s only the latest entry in a series with a long, rich history.

Join us as we explore Armored Core’s humble beginnings and how each entry evolved its iconic mech action.

Armored Core | U.S. Release: 1997 | PlayStation

Armored Core: Project Phantasma | U.S. Release: 1998 | PlayStation

Armored Core: Master of Arena | U.S. Release: 1999 | PlayStation

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