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Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon
Critics Consensus (Play It)
Armored Core VI will not be mistaken for Dark Souls, but it delivers what it promised – a visually stunning, punishingly fun game that offers a new frontier for the Armored Core series.
Game Info
A mysterious new substance was discovered on the remote planet, Rubicon 3. As an energy source, this substance was expected to dramatically advance humanity’s technological and communications capabilities. Instead, this substance caused a catastrophe that engulfed the planet and the surrounding stars in flames and storms, forming a Burning Star System. Almost half a century later, the same substance resurfaced on Rubicon 3, a planet now contaminated and sealed off by the catastrophe. Extra-terrestrial corporations and resistance groups fight over control of the substance. The player infiltrates Rubicon as an independent mercenary and finds themself in a struggle over the substance with the corporations and other factions.
0%
Recommended
0%
Average Score
Total Reviews: 103
Nom: Best Action Game (2023)
Silver TIER
38% of scored reviews fell within the range of 86 to 92 / 100
RELEASE DATES:
GENRES:
- Action
DEVELOPER(S):
- FromSoftware
PUBLISHER(S):
- Bandai Namco Games
SERIES/FRANCHISE:
- Armored Core
GAME MODES:
- Co-operative, Multiplayer, Single player
Where to Play
WHERE TO PLAY
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RATING & REVIEWS
Ratings & Reviews
103
Critic Reviews
85
Average Critic Score
Where to Play
CRITIC REVIEWS
All reviews are from professional critics. Learn more about the critics VSG aggregates.
High Score
100%
Median Score
86%
Low Score
60%
What did you think of Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon?
Player Reviews0 Votes
0
Richard Wakeling (GameSpot)
August 23, 2023
8/10
Armored Core VI sees From Software return to and refine its roots with a game of thrilling mech combat built on aggression, agility, and customization.
Caelyn Ellis (Eurogamer)
August 23, 2023
5/5 stars
FromSoftware delivers a superlative action game that builds on its Soulslike pedigree while staying lean and laser-focused.
J.R. Waugh (Attack of the Fanboy)
August 23, 2023
4/5 stars
Years and several Soulslike games later, FromSoftware revisits another of its iconic franchises and mostly soars with awesome visuals and combat. While difficulty is always going to be a factor in these games, the sudden challenge spikes will alienate those who lack the patience for finding the right build.
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Score Ranges
Read the Reviews (103 total)
| Outlet | Author | Score | Date | Quote | Read |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3DNews | Алексей Лихачев | 8 / 10 | 09-02-2023 | A spectacular game with large combat machines – if eye-catching action scenes are more important to you than the story, Armored Core VI will give you a few unforgettable gameplay sessions. | Read review |
| ACG | Jeremy Penter | Recommended | 08-23-2023 | Video Review | Read review |
| Areajugones | Cristian M. Villa | 8 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI is a revolution in the mecha genre, a video game that manages to drink from everything FromSoftware has learned over this last decade of success strongly linked to Souls-like. This installment has truly challenging peaks at the level of difficulty, and that precisely enhances its great strength: the player’s imagination to build a mecha that adapts to the circumstances. | Read review |
| Atomix | Alberto Desfassiaux | 97 / 100 | 08-23-2023 | FromSoftware did it again. Despite no following the soulslike formula and returning to an old franchise, la studio behind Elden Ring manages to deliver a epic, modern and very well design mecha game the definitely, is a GOTY contender. | Read review |
| Attack of the Fanboy | J.R. Waugh | 4 / 5 stars | 08-23-2023 | Years and several Soulslike games later, FromSoftware revisits another of its iconic franchises and mostly soars with awesome visuals and combat. While difficulty is always going to be a factor in these games, the sudden challenge spikes will alienate those who lack the patience for finding the right build. | Read review |
| Bazimag | Matin Nasiri | 7 / 10 | 09-10-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is a good and enjoyable game for fans of the mecha genre, which offers challenging and memorable boss fights. But unfortunately, it is not able to improve or change some of the outdated mechanics and directions. | Read review |
| But Why Tho? | Kyle Foley | 9 / 10 | 08-28-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is a unique experience all about learning to accept failure in order to find solutions to new challenges. Accepting the fact that some runs need to end in defeat in order to learn more about how to tackle the encounter can take a while, but once you settle into the groove it feels so rewarding. | Read review |
| Capsule Computers | Admir Brkic | 9.5 / 10 | 09-02-2023 | The king is back, baby! The latest entry in the series is here to remind us why Armored Core is one of the better mech games out there, if not the best. | Read review |
| Cerealkillerz | Gabriel Bogdan | 9 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is an absolutely successful return of a series that nearly got forgotten over the years. Even when you can lose track as newcomer over all the different fractions and mercenaries, or get lost with the camera in combination with a lot of explosive effects, making it hard to keep track of what is going on, the studio delivers one of its best experiences so far. If you are looking for a new kind of challenge or want to explore the world of Armored Core for the first time, you will definitely have killer fun with this new FromSoftware title. | Read review |
| CGMagazine | Khari Taylor | 8 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI delivers superlative visuals and uncompromising challenge that will delight hardcore fans but risks alienating newcomers with its steep learning curve. | Read review |
| Checkpoint Gaming | Omi Koulas | 8.5 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is a next-generation action game of mechs, industry, and technology within a rich story. It will be renowned for its advanced approach to strategic combat, integrated assembly system, and immersive soundscape, offering an unparalleled experience for fans of the genre. Amidst its narrative intricacies, pacing, and camera control challenges, Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon stands as a symphony of metal and fire, inviting players to pilot their destiny in a futuristic universe unlike any other. | Read review |
| COGconnected | Mark Steighner | 95 / 100 | 08-23-2023 | Quote not yet available | Read review |
| Cubed3 | Justin Prinsloo | 8 / 10 | 09-02-2023 | Armored Core 6 manages to refresh a dated gameplay loop and make it feel like something entirely new. It excels in both its high-octane gameplay and dizzying variety of customisation options. Whether opting for speed or brute force | Read review |
| Cultured Vultures | Alex Hadzaman | 9.5 / 10 | 08-31-2023 | A refined experience from a much more mature FromSoftware and a crew behind their best hits gives a once obscure franchise a more palatable experience for all makes Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon an unforgettable mecha action game for the ages. | Read review |
| Daily Mirror | Scott McCrae | 4 / 5 stars | 09-05-2023 | The game doesn’t outstay its welcome, coming in at roughly 15-20 hours, but also offers some extra content for those looking to tackle New Game Plus multiple times. Overall, I’d recommend Armored Core 6 to those looking for an exhilarating fast-paced action game that is supplemented by an engaging metagame of designing the perfect build to adapt to each mission. | Read review |
| DASHGAMER.com | Dan Rizzo | 8.5 / 10 | 08-24-2023 | If you’ve yet to play an Armored Core title, and are interested in getting into the mech-action then this is the quintessential entry title into the modernised series without question. Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon brings it back with an insanely polished gameplay loop, eerily gorgeous overlay, and an immaculate engine that runs this game without hurdles. | Read review |
| Destructoid | Chris Carter | 9 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | I was a bit skeptical that From Software would find a way to make Armored Core relevant again after a lengthy hiatus, but they figured it out. The spark of the series is still very much alive without giving up its soul and making it something else entirely, and a new generation will be able to appreciate why these games were so venerated. Just be ready to tinker a bit, and take some Ls. | Read review |
| Digital Chumps | Ben Sheene | 9 / 10 | 09-12-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon strays from the recent FromSoftware formula to deliver an amplified exploration of its long-dormant mech series. Intense action and deep customization more than make up for its daunting opening hours and nebulous story. | Read review |
| Digital Trends | Giovanni Colantonio | 3 / 5 stars | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon is a powerful mech flying with faulty thrusters. A fast-paced action game loaded with thrilling dogfights and stimulating mech customization is dragged down by all too familiar FromSoftware quirks like illegible UI and a headache-inducing third-person camera. It’s not enough to fully spoil an exciting ride, but it does leave me wondering how far a good tune-up would have gone. | Read review |
| Digitally Downloaded | Matt Sainsbury | 3.5 / 5 stars | 08-31-2023 | With Armored Core VI, FromSoftware has demonstrated, yet again, that it has few peers when it comes to intelligent and thought-provoking action. You’ll need to be faster on the draw and quicker with the reactions to survive this game’s bullet ballet-like approach, but you’ll also need to be smart and precise, and there’s elegance to complement with the visceral sound of metal rending. Sadly, that’s all FromSoftware has delivered this time around, and for a company that has mastered the ability to give truly memorable context to its worlds, characters, and battles, the shallow hollowness of this experience is truly disappointing. | Read review |
| Easy Allies | Brad Ellis | 4.5 / 5 stars | 08-30-2023 | Armored Core VI Fires of Rubicon serves as a glorious return, filled with exhilarating mecha action. | Read review |
| Echo Boomer | David Fialho | Recommended | 09-06-2023 | Fires of Rubicon” doesn’t spare players with its difficulty spikes, but its structure and incentives for combat make it one of the most accessible and enjoyable games from a post-Souls FromSoftware. | Read review |
| Eurogamer | Caelyn Ellis | Recommended | 08-23-2023 | FromSoftware delivers a superlative action game that builds on its Soulslike pedigree while staying lean and laser-focused. | Read review |
| Eurogamer.pt | Bruno Galvão | 4 / 5 stars | 08-24-2023 | There are several epic, stunning-scale moments in which FromSoftware’s artistic ingenuity prevails over the texture quality of an often austere and empty industrial world. It’s a tough game, but the strong performance allows this strategic gameplay to put in your hands the customization of the path to victory. The upshot of this is that I would never have imagined putting Armored Core 6 among my favorites of the year. | Read review |
| Everyeye.it | Antonello Bello | 8.3 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is an excellent starting point for the series, which after so many chapters not really successful had been missing for an entire decade from the scene. | Read review |
| Expansive | Laurie Jones | 8 / 10 | 09-04-2023 | Armored Core VI is not the usual FromSoftware jazz but it’s still not going to take it easy on you. From its deep layers of customisation, its huge amount of missions and the surprising amount of variety within them, and the wonderful free-flowing, fast-paced movement, this game stands apart as a fresh-start for their forgotten franchise and a throwback to their glory days. Fires of Rubicon is a showcase of a developer at the peak of their powers, able to switch up things to great effect and still manage to deliver a high standard of quality. | Read review |
| Fextralife | Fexelea | 8.7 / 10 | 08-24-2023 | Armored Core VI is an intense, challenging and rewarding experience that surpasses any other mech style game I have played. Intricate mech customization and exquisite combat encounters makes it a definite must-have if you are a fan of the Armored Core series or FromSoftware. | Read review |
| Forbes | Ollie Barder | 8 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Overall, Armored Core VI is a proper mecha action game. It’s not the best game in the series, but it is solidly done. The new target assist setup works fine and is also able to be turned off if need be. The story and localization are great, and very much inline with the Japanese dialogue for the first time in the series’ history. It’s also definitely a return to form for the Armored Core series, but the never-ending boss fights do take away from the decent mission structure and pacing, especially later in the game. However, for someone like me that’s been playing Armored Core games for over 25 years, it’s nice that this series is back and finally being given a proper chance to shine | Read review |
| Game Informer | Connor Trinske | 8.3 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI is a solid return for one of From Software’s long-dormant franchises. It still carries many of the mech genre’s old contrivances, like its generic mission structure and predictable plot. However, it modernizes mech action meaningfully to introduce it to a new generation. While legacy fans may have some complaints about the “casualization” of Armored Core, I am ultimately glad the series is back and firing on all cylinders. | Read review |
| Gameblog | Unknown | 6 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | https://www.gameblog.fr/jeu-video/jeux/tests/test-armored-core-6-elden-ring-450501) | Read review |
| Gamefa | mohammad hossein karimi | 9 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | If you’re one of those people who prioritize breathtaking action, combat, and love to trial and error with ample builds, Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is a must-play, especially because of the simplified UI that will be a pleasant surprise for newcomers to the series. That being said, Armored Core VI doesn’t fully utilize its potential when it comes to narrative and storytelling. Also, in its second half, there are very few overpowered builds. But at the end of the day, flashy encounters, smooth and seamless controls, and epic art design make Armored Core VI a unique experience. | Read review |
| GameGrin | Jacob Sanderson | 10 / 10 | 08-30-2023 | FromSoftware once again released an utter masterpiece, with insane combat and an engaging plot, along with customisation allowing you to create the mech of your dreams. | Read review |
| GamePro | Dennis Michel | 86 / 100 | 08-23-2023 | A mech fan’s dream and a hot candidate for the most spectacular and best action game of 2023. | Read review |
| Gamers Heroes | Casey Scheld | 9 / 10 | 09-23-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is an absolutely thrilling game, providing a hefty amount of challenge and the tools needed to grow and overcome any threats. Take up this call from Handler Walter – he’s got a new job for you. | Read review |
| Gamersky | Unknown | 8.8 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | The reboot of Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is a triumph. FromSoftware’s vast experience shines through in the game, smoothly blending their past successes from Souls-like titles into Armored Core VI. It also stays true to the essence of mech games, maintaining the strong traditions of the series such as the highly customisable mech assembly. It retains the core fun that defines the franchise. | Read review |
| GAMES.CH | Benjamin Braun | 80 / 100 | 08-23-2023 | Quote not yet available | Read review |
| GamesBeat | Mike Minotti | 90 / 100 | 08-23-2023 | No, it’s no Dark Souls with mechs, but Armored Core VI carves out its own identity. | Read review |
| GameSpew | Richard Seagrave | 8 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | For those that don’t mind that its story is passable, and that its difficulty wildly varies from mission to mission, Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is likely to be a bit of a treat. It looks great, the action is lighting fast and always remains smooth, and there’s genuine joy to be had in amassing a wide range of parts and then using them to create builds that allow you to much more effectively complete missions. This is a far cry from FromSoftware’s popular output in recent years, but can be just as engrossing – providing you have an open mind. | Read review |
| GameSpot | Richard Wakeling | 8 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI sees From Software return to and refine its roots with a game of thrilling mech combat built on aggression, agility, and customization. | Read review |
| GamesRadar+ | Austin Wood | 4.5 / 5 stars | 08-23-2023 | I’ve seen two endings now and they both make me miserable in different ways, which feels like a good summary of this and maybe all war | Read review |
| GamingBolt | Shunal Doke | 9 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon is a wonderful return to form for a franchise that has been dormant for a very long time. Its unique mission structure that encourages experimentation, coupled with an insane level of customization is one of the game’s major highlights, and while its story takes time to get started, no two missions ever really feel the same thanks to varied objectives and excellent encounter design. | Read review |
| GamingTrend | Ron Burke | 90 / 100 | 08-23-2023 | White-knuckle brilliant Soulslike action, coupled with a movement style not seen in this genre for an entire generation, resurrects a blast from the past in a whole new way. If you are a fan of the genre, this game is pure punishing fun with all that implies. If not, it’s unlikely to convert you. In either case, Armored Core VI: Fires of the Rubicon is a brilliant title that breaks the mold on the genre in a whole new way. | Read review |
| Geek Culture | Jake Su | 9.3 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | A grizzled veteran will find much to love in Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon, and with FromSoftware continuing to refine its approach of hardcore sensibilities with a degree of accessibility, so will newcomers to this fabled franchise. The action comes fast and heavy; there is immense depth and enjoyment to be had in assembling ACs, and with a story that takes plenty of twists and turns leading to any of the three endings, it has been an immense pleasure to see things to the end, and return for more before the dust even settles. | Read review |
| Generación Xbox | David Fernandez | 9.7 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Rating a game like Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon can be very complicated and very simple at the same time. I mean, it’s a game that not everyone is going to love, it’s not what we’re used to with From Software and that also counterbalances. For me, and having played him, I must say that he is a clear contender for game of the year, he has everything he needs to have to be able to compete. But of course, it is a niche game, it has great virtues, but it does not become anything completely innovative to think that it has to be the best. | Read review |
| God is a Geek | Chris White | 9 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon is visually stunning, and the omni-directional combat and build assembly is tons of fun. | Read review |
| Hey Poor Player | Jon Davis | 4.5 / 5 stars | 09-09-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is a game you can check off your list in a manageable timeframe, a nod to the simpler times of gaming. It’s a reminder that sometimes, you don’t need vast open worlds or endless quests to have a blast. | Read review |
| Hobby Consolas | Bruno Sol | 90 / 100 | 08-23-2023 | A dream for any mecha fan, with a remarkable technical invoice and spectacular combats. But its very high level of difficulty, when it comes to overcoming certain bosses, will be a handicap for those players who are not used to the dynamics of the Souls. | Read review |
| IGN | Mitchell Saltzman | 8 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon’s stellar customization options feed into its excellent mecha combat, and the result is challenging combat puzzles that kept my attention all the way through its 15-hour campaign and beyond. It’s let down by a dull story, but lands direct hits where it counts. | Read review |
| IGN Italy | Alessandra Borgonovo | 8.2 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Fires of Rubicon is Armored Core as it should always have been: the new game delivers a great combat system and mobility, but unfortunately, it’s hampered by a few shortcomings no longer excusable to a world-class studio such as From Software. | Read review |
| IGN Spain | Guillermo Proupín | 9 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI is a game that delivers what it promises: it is fun, difficult and satisfying throughout. With some conceptual errors in its design it proposes a futuristic dystopian world that is far from the dark fantasy works that have made FromSoftware get to where it is, but with a clear objective: Fires of Rubicon will be the Dark Souls of its saga, not because of its resemblance to this one but because it has the same ambition. With a unique gameplay in its genre and an extraordinary setting, it has everything it needs to become a mass phenomenon. | Read review |
| Impulsegamer | Abdul Saad | 4.3 / 5 stars | 09-08-2023 | Overall, Armored Core VI is a highly enjoyable game, especially for mecha heads and sci-fi fanatics. While I wish the story got a lot more attention, the game does a great job of reintroducing old fans while not alienating new players. | Read review |
| INDIANTVCZ | Jan Kalný | 8 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is a title that is unlikely to make it into the mainstream despite its efforts. It’s headed in the right direction, yet it’s particular with an exciting theme that will only appeal to certain players. Those that do, however, are in for an incredible audiovisual spectacle with great gameplay. As well as, for the first time in a long time, a simply excellent mech game. It’s just a shame about the uninteresting story because, in other respects, it’s an amazing and robust package. | Read review |
| Jump Dash Roll | Luciano Howard | 9 / 10 | 09-14-2023 | FromSoftware games are an event and this one is no exception. Great fun, chaotic until tamed and thoroughly moreish. You’ll find a lot to like if you’re into high-quality action. | Read review |
| Kotaku | Ethan Gach | Recommended | 08-23-2023 | The central fantasy of every FromSoftware game is pretty much the same—that through close observation and relentless practice you too can bootstrap your way to greatness, slay the dragon, save the kingdom, or solve the puzzle to unlock the mysteries of the universe. In many of the Soulsborne games this means mastering the violent gauntlet ahead of you. In Armored Core VI it means changing yourself until that death march becomes a cakewalk instead. It’s a game about having faith in yourself, even when no one else does, and becoming an ass-kicking mech pilot in the process, not because it will save the world, but because it’s cool as shit. | Read review |
| LevelUp | Víctor Rosas | 9 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI Fires of Rubicon proves that FromSoftware remains one of the top game studios of our time, undefeated and unstoppable. It’s the mech game we’ve all dreamed of since our childhood, and the best part is, it packs that old-school, hardcore gaming challenge | Read review |
| Lords Of Gaming | Mahmood Ghaffar | 8.5 / 10 | 09-09-2023 | Despite having an entirely different gameplay setup and sci-fi setting, Armored Core 6 is a Fromsoftware title through and through. The intricate mecha combat mechanics and challenging boss fights make for an incredible experience. Though there are some missed opportunities in terms of the graphics and story beats, it’s easy to proclaim that Armored Core VI is the best game in the long-running franchise. | Read review |
| Metro GameCentral | GameCentral | 9 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Probably the best giant robot game ever made and an excellent companion piece to the likes of Dark Souls and Elden Ring, that matches both games in terms of spectacle and customisation. | Read review |
| MonsterVine | Diego Escala | 4.5 / 5 stars | 09-20-2023 | Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon easily has some of the series’ best highs, and is a proper return to form for the franchise. | Read review |
| Niche Gamer | Brandon Orselli | 8.5 / 10 | 09-01-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is a proper return to form for one of the most beloved mecha game series. Everything in the game has been carefully looked at, designed, and fine tuned to appease both longtime fans like myself and newcomer pilots as well. I couldn’t put the game down, every bit of the game is fun – Armored Core VI is a love letter to mecha action. | Read review |
| Oyungezer Online | Eren Eryürekli | 7.5 / 10 | 08-28-2023 | Armored Core VI is action packed and has great pacing yet the polishing is nowhere to be found. It’s basically a PS4 game with the same old mechanics of a PS3 era game. I love the atmosphere and story yet the visuals looks very old and characters are dull as hell. It’s a good comeback but not as grand as we expect from From Software standarts. | Read review |
| Paste Magazine | Dia Lacina | 9.5 / 10 | 09-15-2023 | When I think back on my time with Armored Core VI, I can’t help but think about my fondness for the voices over the radio. The way Rusty was so cool when he showed up to help bail my ass out. Or the progression of Carla calling me a tourist. Then all the arguments and shared triumphs with real world friends over which bosses were too hard and which weapons were too cheesy. The way we share this game with one another. From Software manages to make connections in small, delicate internal ways, and also big messy explosive ones that I don’t think they can possibly plan for. | Read review |
| PC Gamer | Wes Fenlon | 87 / 100 | 08-23-2023 | The coolest mechs in gaming history form the core ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡° ) of an intense, focused action game. | Read review |
| PC Invasion | Noah Nelson | 9 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core 6 is rocket power | Read review |
| PCGamesN | Andrew Farrell | 8 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core 6 is easily one of the best mech games around, with blisteringly fast combat and a big focus on customization, even if its difficulty is lacking and repetition sets in before the end. | Read review |
| PCMag | Gabriel Zamora | 3.5 / 5 stars | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon delivers exciting mech action and superb customization options, albeit with some annoying difficulty spikes and relatively drab maps. | Read review |
| PlayStation Universe | Adam Byrne | 8.5 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Fires of Rubicon offers a new frontier for the Armored Core series, demonstrating developer FromSoftware’s ability to weave its recent success and confidence back into familiar territory, while at the same time demonstrating that you can indeed teach an old hound new tricks. | Read review |
| Polygon | Michael McWhertor | Recommended | 08-23-2023 | But the most compelling aspects of Armored Core 6 come from its hard-fought battles, when 621 survives their mission with just a sliver of life left, having out-danced their opponent in the exchange of missiles, bullets, and laser beams. It’s noisy, chaotic, and starkly beautiful, all this clanging metal, ricochets, and explosions. It’s unlike many of the FromSoftware games you may have played over the past decade, to its benefit. Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon is the Elden Ring developer flexing an old, nearly forgotten muscle, but one that’s still strong as ever. | Read review |
| PowerUp! | Adam Mathew | 7.5 / 10 | 08-24-2023 | At the end of the evaluation, Armored Core VI may stand as the best at what it does in its particular arena, but that’s largely due to a lack of stiff competition. From could have assembled something truly S ranked here, but didn’t. | Read review |
| Press Start | James Mitchell | 9 / 10 | 08-24-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon manages to succesfully bring back and cultivate an experience reminiscent of the old games for newer audiences without losing sight of what made the previous games so good. While it’s still relentlessly challenging and the story can be a bit drab, Fires of Rubicon is yet another success for FromSoftware with it’s satisfying and fast paced combat. | Read review |
| Prima Games | Shaun Cichacki | 9 / 10 | 08-28-2023 | Its internal parts are crafted with PlayStation 2-era design, brought together in an oven that can push out some of the most delicious Mech combat that I’ve experienced in a very long time. Its story is engaging enough to keep you pushing forward, and its variety of missions and boss battles can evoke a range of emotions from any player. | Read review |
| PSX Brasil | Unknown | 80 / 100 | 08-23-2023 | Quote not yet available | Read review |
| Push Square | Liam Croft | 7 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon admirably weds satisfying combat with extensive mech customisation, with short missions letting you quickly experiment with new ideas and builds. However, once you’ve settled on an optimal loadout, it’s those same quick-fire levels that begin to blunt the fun. The result is a game that can be just as enjoyable as it is frustrating. A littering of good boss fights and rock-solid performance on PS5 make it a worthwhile experience as a whole, but Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon won’t go down as a classic in the same way other FromSoftware titles have for the past decade. | Read review |
| Reno Gazette-Journal | Jason Hidalgo | 9 / 10 | 08-25-2023 | Armored Core VI is the perfect example of tough love. I’ve lost track of how many times I thought a boss or stage was impossible before ultimately figuring things out, whether it be via a new build or simply learning boss patterns. I understand that Armored Core VI can feel too hard and unfair at times. But if you stick with it, you just might be surprised with what you’re capable of. | Read review |
| Rock, Paper, Shotgun | Unknown | Recommended | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires Of Rubicon’s stylish main character, varied level design and effective story are balanced by a few out of place boss fights and too many similar battles. Like a mech itself, Armored Core VI is versatile and packs a real punch, but also somewhat bulky and not always perfectly balanced. | Read review |
| Saudi Gamer | Unknown | 7 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core 6 is the master form of the franchise and it is a glorious return indeed, from the fantastic boss fights that made me feel like it is a take on Zone of the enders with the souls difficulty and tons of customizability made it all worth it, but it is marred by frustrating design decisions and terrible camera angles during a lot of the boss fights | Read review |
| Screen Rant | Christopher Teuton | 4.5 / 5 stars | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core 6 is one of the best mech games I’ve experienced in years, and it’s one I expect to play through at least two more times. The story of Rubicon, and how your decisions as a mercenary shape it, is my favorite story in gaming this year, up to and including all the big releases that have come out so far. It’s an exceptionally well-made title with few bugs, incredible graphics, great gameplay, and a thought-provoking narrative. I just wish it was a little longer. | Read review |
| SECTOR.sk | Oto Schultz | 9 / 10 | 09-01-2023 | Rise Hound, for the calm embers of Rubicon are slowly starting to burn once again. Huge corps are fighting for all the Coral resources left, AC’s change around alliancies and good pilots are nowhere to be found’ Scavenge these scorched lands, scramble any passable gear and build yourself an Armored Core! Use these weapons and repair packs to tear apart the beastly industrial machines that stand in our way and give us hope for a better future’ | Read review |
| Shacknews | TJ Denzer | 9 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Quote not yet available | Read review |
| Siliconera | Kazuma Hashimoto | 10 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI heralds a bright future for the return of Armored Core. | Read review |
| Sirus Gaming | Conrad Huang | 8.5 / 10 | 09-01-2023 | Despite its drawbacks, Armored Core VI Fires of Rubicon is truly a great game to play. Though the game has similar features to that of Dark Souls, players should learn that this game tests one’s skills and endurance. I recommend that players watch the gameplay trailers presented by BANDAI NAMCO first in order to get a familiar reading on how challenging and unique this game is before purchasing it. | Read review |
| SomHráč.sk | Karel Šír | 80 / 100 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon has, without a doubt, achieved exactly what the creators wanted | Read review |
| SpazioGames | Unknown | 8 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Despite being a “minor” game, Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is the best possible return for a franchise that has certainly been historic and that remained silent and quiet for many years, but that has still a lot to say. | Read review |
| Stevivor | Hamish Lindsay | 8.5 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | The AC series is one that rewards your ability to adapt and persevere in equal measure. To overcome it’s challenges you have to learn its systems and soldier on in the face of inevitable defeat. Series veterans will dine well, and if you’re signing up as a newcomer then do yourself a favour – don’t expect Armored Core 6 to be something it’s not. Try enjoying it for what it is instead. | Read review |
| TechRaptor | Samuel Guglielmo | 8.5 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Some occasional gameplay and story mishaps, and complicated controls, don’t hold back Armored Core VI from being both an absolute blast to play and an extremely welcome return from this long-dormant franchise. | Read review |
| The Game Crater | Lewis Maisel | 8 / 10 | 08-28-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is a refreshing revival of a series that has been in a deep sleep since 2013. The deep customization options and fast-paced mecha combat more than make up for the game’s mediocre narrative. | Read review |
| The Games Machine | Daniele Dolce | 8.5 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is an almost perfect comeback for the mecha series by FromSoftware. Despite some frankly incomprehensible slip-ups, like the presence of invisible walls and uninspired stealth missions, this is one of the most hectic and satisfying mecha action games, as it offers heart-pounding boss battles and an incredibly deep customization system. | Read review |
| TheSixthAxis | Jason Coles | 7 / 10 | 08-30-2023 | The long-awaited return of FromSoftware’s mech-filled series, Armored Core 6 delivers on a lot of what fans will have been hoping and dreaming of. Building and customising mechs is engaging, missions are action-packed and it looks gorgeous, but it’s undercut by swings in difficulty for boss fights and an all-too-familiar story. | Read review |
| Too Much Gaming | Carlos Hernandez | 8 / 10 | 09-07-2023 | FromSoftware did not disappoint at revitalizing the Armored Core series with Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon, a title that superbly balances the parts and loadout of a fantastic Armored Core game while injecting the studio’s now-well-known specialty. | Read review |
| Unboxholics | Στράτος Χατζηνικολάου | Recommended | 08-23-2023 | FromSoftware returns after the very successful Elden Ring to familiar waters, but quite unfamiliar to many people who got to know it through Dark Souls. Its legendary franchise that was launched in 1997 on the PlayStation comes to the present day fully updated, with new ideas and gameplay that series fans will love. The game is definitely not for everyone due to its difficulty and setting, but it definitely appeals to those who want to play something different from the company, which once again does not disappoint, especially when it comes to gameplay mechanics, mechs and epic boss battles. | Read review |
| Use a Potion | Unknown | 9 / 10 | 09-04-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is a thrilling experience that blends together destructive mech combat and with deep customisation options in a rewarding manner. Combat feels great and offers plenty of strategic options thanks to the depth offered when putting together your mech build, whilst the missions are perfectly designed to cater for some epic set pieces and battles with your enemies. And sure, there can be a bit of a learning curve (especially when dealing with the tougher boss encounters), but nothing in the game ever feels overwhelming. | Read review |
| VG247 | Josh Broadwell | Not Recommended | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core 6 is the essence of a soft reboot. It has the unenviable task of drawing newcomers to a niche, sometimes overly challenging series without changing too much of what made fans like it to begin with. The result is a mixed experience that, while it has some shining moments of brilliance, feels a bit loose and never plays to its strengths. | Read review |
| Video Chums | A.J. Maciejewski | 8.3 / 10 | 09-19-2023 | ARMORED CORE VI FIRES OF RUBICON is a great mech combat game that boasts a surprisingly moody atmosphere while offering one of the most rewarding customisation components in all of gaming. So, definitely play it if you love tough combat and plenty of explosions. | Read review |
| VideoGamer | Finlay Cattanach | 10 / 10 | 08-24-2023 | Armored Core 6 Fires of Rubicon is a masterful return to form for the series that incorporates the modern design philosophies of From Software. It’s a dystopian world with a brutally gorgeous aesthetic and refined gameplay elevated by exceptional boss battles. Any fan of the series new or old will find something to love. | Read review |
| WayTooManyGames | Kyle Nicol | 8.5 / 10 | 09-05-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is my introduction to the series, and I’m thoroughly impressed. FromSoft has delivered an ultra-fast-paced and challenging mech combat game. The deep customisation, great replay value, and level design will keep me coming back for more. If you love FromSoft games and like action-packed mech gameplay, then Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is a must-play. | Read review |
| Wccftech | Kai Tatsumoto | 8.5 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI Fires of Rubicon is without a doubt one of From Software’s most unique and polished experiences in the last decade. However, there’s a certain expectation of AC Pilot skill getting into the cockpit that even making it through until the final chapter requires an established familiarity far above and beyond any Soulslike pedigree. | Read review |
| We Got This Covered | David Morgan | 4.5 / 5 stars | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI is like getting to put together your own giant Lego robot and sending it out to die before realizing you just needed to attach a few more missile launchers. Freedom in gameplay comes in many shapes and sizes, and the customization of your very own mechs suited to each mission is a niche yet thrilling experience. A thoughtful, intricately-woven story and amazing presentation sure don’t hurt, either. | Read review |
| WellPlayed | James Wood | 9.5 / 10 | 08-24-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon emerges ablaze with FromSoftware’s best impulses. Demanding and rewarding combat is bolstered by series signature customisation and player-driven storytelling to form a masterclass in design philosophy and raw fun. | Read review |
| Windows Central | Brendan Lowry | 5 / 5 stars | 08-23-2023 | FromSoftware has finally returned to its classic mecha action franchise after a decade with the arrival of Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon, and what a glorious return it is. Whether you’re an Armored Core veteran or a fan of the developer’s Souls games looking to see what else the studio is capable of, you’ll absolutely fall in love with Armored Core 6’s immensely satisfying gameplay, fascinating story, and immaculate presentation. | Read review |
| Worth Playing | Chris “Atom” DeAngelus | 9 / 10 | 08-23-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is a darn fine entry into the franchise. The buttery-smooth gameplay and incredibly cool combat make it an absolute delight to play. It’s easily one of the best mecha action games, and only Gundam Breaker 3 has a more involved and enjoyable mech customization system. If you’re looking for a really fun and well-crafted robot bashing experience, look no further than Armored Core VI, which is a delight to play. | Read review |
| Xbox Achievements | Richard Walker | 88 / 100 | 08-25-2023 | A cracking dose of fast-paced action, Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is a triumphant return for FromSoftware’s mecha series after a decade, which proves both sternly challenging and deliciously rewarding in equal measure. | Read review |
| XGN.nl | Chris Boers | 7.5 / 10 | 09-08-2023 | Armored Core 6 is a nice diversion from the Souls games for From Games. The return to modular mechs allows players to experiment with wildly different builds. Sadly, the game feels very unbalanced. It throws very hard bosses at you when you’re unprepared and underpowered, while not challenging you enough when you finally reach enough freedom to build an AC to suit your style. | Read review |
| Zoomg | Sadegh Tavazoyi | 8.5 / 10 | 09-05-2023 | Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon truly revives the Armored Core series with an experience that is fun, challenging and memorable. If you’re looking for a mecha game that can totally impress for around 15-20 hours, Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is the right game for you. |
Awards & Recognition
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* VSG’s best estimate for how long it will take you to complete the game. Learn more.
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