For years, From Software was largely celebrated for their intense mech-action titles, with Armored Core being the standout. This franchise made its debut on the original PlayStation, quickly winning over a loyal following that has stuck around for more than 20 years.
Recently, it was announced that Armored Core (1997), Armored Core: Project Phantasma, and Armored Core: Master of Arena would soon be available on PlayStation Plus Classics. What better reason to dive back into the history of this iconic series?
### Armored Core | PlayStation | 1997
The origin of Armored Core is a fascinating tale of creative partnership between From Software and anime maestro Shoji Kawamori. As the PlayStation era was kicking off, they came up with the idea of a game where players could customize their own mechs. This idea formed the backbone of what would become Armored Core, with players adding various parts to a central component, aptly named the Armored Core. The game was set in a dystopian future of corporate tyranny following a catastrophe known as the Great Destruction. Players took on the role of Ravens, mercenary mech pilots focused on earning cash.
Released in 1997 in Japan and North America, and a year later in Europe, Armored Core was noteworthy for its deep customization options, resource management, and mission-centric progression. The controls, though complex, offered an engaging piloting experience. With a branching storyline based on mission choices, it was the kind of game that invited players back for multiple playthroughs.
### Armored Core: Project Phantasma | PlayStation | 1998
Fans of Armored Core didn’t have to wait long for more content. Armored Core: Project Phantasma, released shortly after, was a prequel rich in narrative that introduced the beloved Arena mode. Players could challenge other mechs, climb rankings, and gather impressive rewards, all adding a new dimension to the game.
### Armored Core: Master of Arena | PlayStation | 1999
In Armored Core: Master of Arena, the Arena mode took center stage, building directly on Project Phantasma’s success. Players could carry over their progress from previous games, retaining hard-won gear and configurations. These early Armored Core games laid down the essential tenets of the series, with Shoji Kawamori playing a key role in giving the mechs their distinctive look and feel.
### Armored Core 2 | PlayStation 2 | 2000
With the dawn of the PlayStation 2, From Software was among the first to harness its potential. Armored Core 2 launched alongside the console in North America in 2000. This sequel jumped decades forward, taking the Ravens to a terraformed Mars amidst a civil war. The graphical enhancements were immediately apparent, and new gameplay mechanics such as Overboost were introduced. This allowed for rapid movement albeit at an energy cost. Armored Core 2: Another Age followed, revisiting Earth with over 100 missions and becoming one of the early PS2 titles to offer online play.
### Armored Core 3 | PlayStation 2 | 2002
Continuing on PS2 in 2002, Armored Core 3 returned to the familiar terrain of a devastated Earth. Despite a new story, the setting was recognizable: humanity living underground under the watchful AI, The Controller. New features included Consorts to help during missions and the ability to jettison equipment mid-mission for speedier performance. The cherished Arena mode reappeared, providing a staple of the franchise.
Armored Core 3: Silent Line expanded this narrative, battling a new menace on Earth’s surface. The storyline kept evolving through titles like Armored Core: Nexus, culminating in Nine Breaker and Last Raven. Some of these games even saw a second life on the PSP.
### Armored Core 4 | PlayStation 3 | 2006
Armored Core 4 marked the PS3’s foray into high-definition mech battles. The familiar story framework remained, with corporations employing mercenaries for their bidding. The series introduced the NEXTs, mechs with advanced tech like Primal Armor. The game aimed to modernize controls to suit both newcomers and veterans. Armored Core for Answer continued the storyline, exploring the conflicts between corporations and rebellious forces known as ORCA.
### Armored Core V | PlayStation 3 | 2012
In 2012’s Armored Core V, the franchise revisited Earth’s turmoil, challenging players to end a despotic regime. This installment scaled combat back to its tactical roots, reminiscent of the earlier games. Smaller units offered a different tactical edge, and players could lead whole squad missions. The sequel, Armored Core: Verdict Day in 2013, carried this further with customizable AI partners.
### Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon | PlayStation 5 | 2023
We finally approach the present day with Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon in 2023. After a decade-long hiatus, this new installment has re-energized the series, welcoming newcomers and delighting long-time fans. With its critical and commercial triumph, the future looks bright for Armored Core, and fans are eagerly waiting to see where From Software steers the series next.
