FromSoftware's Armored Core series, originating in 1997, has cultivated a dedicated following enamored with its unique blend of third-person shooting and exhilarating mech battles. In stark contrast to FromSoftware's more prominent titles like Dark Souls, Bloodborne, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, and the recent Elden Ring, all falling under the Soulslike category, the Armored Core games offer a distinct experience that shouldn't be undervalued. The latest installment, Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon, has demonstrated the enduring strength of the franchise.
Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon, released in 2023, garnered critical acclaim and praise from fans for being one of the series' most impressive entries yet. Despite its achievements, the game's sales figures stood at 2.8 million copies by October of the previous year, a modest number compared to the over 23 million copies sold of Elden Ring to date. However, this contrast speaks more to the exceptional success of Elden Ring rather than any shortcomings of Armored Core 6. Each title should be evaluated on its own merits, and in that light, Armored Core 6 undoubtedly shines.
Armored Core: A Unique Cornerstone in FromSoftware's Portfolio
Top-tier game developers manage to strike a balance between perfecting their core genre and exploring new territories, showcasing their versatility. FromSoftware has solidified its reputation as the pioneer of Soulslike games, with the acclaimed Dark Souls trilogy, Bloodborne, and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, which earned the Game of the Year title in 2019.
The Armored Core series exemplifies FromSoftware's prowess beyond the Soulslike realm, delving into the niche domain of mech combat. While mech battles may cater to a specific audience, FromSoftware's ability to establish a strong presence in this genre highlights their exceptional development skills.
The Future Prospect of Armored Core by FromSoftware
As the highly awaited DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree, for Elden Ring nears its release in less than two months, all eyes are on FromSoftware and their next move. Speculation abounds about a new Soulslike installment or a possible sequel to the beloved Bloodborne. However, with a decade passing between Armored Core 6 and its predecessor, the timeline for a new release seems uncertain. Yet, the return of this enduring series in the future wouldn't be surprising, showcasing FromSoftware's commitment to diversity in their game portfolio.