Why FromSoftware's Armored Core 6 is More Than Just an Elden Ring Avoidance
FromSoftware took steps to differentiate Armored Core 6 from Elden Ring, excluding a specific element to avoid comparisons The developers aimed to showcase the unique qualities of each game and deliver engaging experiences for players
According to FromSoftware, the upcoming Armored Core 6 originally had open-world elements, but they were scrapped to prevent comparisons with Elden Ring. Armored Core was the studio's long-standing mecha action franchise until the arrival of the Soulsborne games, and Armored Core 6's announcement at the 2022 Game Awards was a pleasant surprise for fans. Unlike Elden Ring, the game will focus on mecha-piloting gameplay, featuring combat with robots using a variety of weapons, including melee and gun-like armaments, as well as an emphasis on movement. The release date trailer reveals a greater emphasis on melee combat. The developers have revealed that they could have made this game an open world like Elden Ring, but opted not to in order to avoid comparisons.
During an interview about the upcoming mecha action game Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon, director Masaru Yamamura addressed the possibility of changing the game's gameplay style. While some opinions were floated to make it more similar to the Souls series or Elden Ring, Yamamura and his team ultimately decided that the series' focus on movement and exploration would not translate well to a different style of gameplay. The mission-style system, which has been a staple of the Armored Core series, will remain intact.
Armored Core 6 is returning to its roots, focusing on the customization and assembly of a powerful mecha to tackle missions. Unlike previous games in the franchise that incorporated exploration elements, the gameplay of Armored Core 6 is geared towards mecha combat. The mecha's speed and directional movement are unique, featuring boosters that allow players to reach high altitudes and acceleration that is influenced by the parts used. Meanwhile, FromSoftware is also working on its first post-launch content, the Shadow of Erdtree DLC for Elden Ring, which is expected to release in late-2023. However, Armored Core 6 is set to release in just over two months, offering fans a distinct and exciting new challenge.
Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon launches August 25 for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
Source: Ruliweb (via Exputer)
