Why Armored Core 6 is the Break We All Need from Soulslikes

FromSoftware has made a name for themselves in the gaming world with their unique and challenging games like Dark Souls and Elden Ring. These titles are known for their punishing death mechanics, epic boss battles, and immersive dark fantasy worlds. However, FromSoftware's lesser-known franchise, Armored Core, has been around for quite some time and has a devoted following. With the upcoming release of Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon, FromSoftware has the chance to showcase their skills in a different genre.

While Armored Core 6 will not have any connection to FromSoftware's Soulslike games, there may be some design choices that carry over from previous titles. This opportunity allows FromSoftware to establish themselves once again as an original and authentic developer, separate from the many others attempting to copy their successful formula. For fans who may be unfamiliar with Armored Core, this new installment presents a chance to discover a new and exciting world created by the talented developers at FromSoftware.

FromSoftware Can Offer Something Fresh While Other Soulslikes Run Hot

Games that fall under the 'Soulslike' subgenre have become increasingly popular due to the influence of FromSoftware's game design. Initially considered a niche genre, the popularity of FromSoftware's titles has led to the emergence of Soulslike imitators who aim to add their own unique touch to the genre. Titles like Mortal Shell, The Surge, Nioh, Lords of the Fallen, and Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order all incorporate Soulslike elements alongside their own distinct gameplay mechanics and features. With more Soulslikes currently in development, each game will undoubtedly be compared to its predecessors, as well as to FromSoftware's own games.

If a Soulslike game lacks distinctiveness, it risks being overshadowed by its comparison to Bloodborne. However, Hollow Knight: Silksong, while inspired by Soulslike mechanics, is considered more of a 2D Metroidvania and is therefore granted a bit of leniency. FromSoftware's Soulslike games have always been incredibly popular, making subsequent entries market themselves with ease. Elden Ring, for example, already looked phenomenal before release.

With their next game not being a Soulslike, FromSoftware has seized the opportunity to revisit an established franchise and reinvent it, while a handful of other developers release their own Soulslike games. This move not only keeps FromSoftware's catalog and releases fresh but also increases excitement for Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree DLC.

FromSoftware's upcoming release of Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon creates a potential concern that the game may not live up to the high expectations set by the studio's previous Soulslike titles. While Elden Ring could act as a safety net, it would be unfortunate if Armored Core tarnished FromSoftware's current hot streak. However, if Armored Core 6 is well-received, it could mark a positive shift for the studio away from solely focusing on Soulslike action-RPGs.

Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon launches August 25 for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.