For years, From Software’s identity was closely tied to their mech action games, the standout being Armored Core. This series, launched on the original PlayStation, has nurtured a dedicated following across more than two decades.
Now, with Armored Core (1997), Armored Core: Project Phantasma, and Armored Core: Master of Arena arriving on PlayStation Plus Classics, it’s a great opportunity to dive back into the roots of this legendary series.
Armored Core | PlayStation | 1997
The origins of Armored Core are steeped in a collaboration between From Software and renowned anime mechanical designer, Shoji Kawamori. In the early PlayStation era, they envisioned a game centered around player-customizable mechs, evolving into the iconic concept of modular parts attached to the Armored Core. Set against a grim backdrop of Earth devastated by the Great Destruction and dominated by corporate powers, players stepped into the boots of Ravens, mercenary pilots driven by profit. Launched in Japan and North America in 1997, and a year later in Europe, the game stood out for its extensive customization, resource management, and mission-focused gameplay. Its intricate control scheme gave players the thrilling sensation of piloting a bespoke mech. The branching storylines, triggered by mission choices, enticed players to replay and explore all outcomes. Armored Core becomes available on PlayStation Plus Premium on March 18.
Armored Core: Project Phantasma | PlayStation | 1998
Capitalizing on the original’s success, Armored Core quickly expanded with two sequel extensions. Project Phantasma emerged as a prelude, offering more narrative depth and introducing the compelling Arena mode, where players could engage in mech duels to climb the ranks and snag amazing rewards. It too will join PlayStation Plus Premium on March 18.
Armored Core: Master of Arena | PlayStation | 1999
True to its name, Master of Arena honed in on Arena mode as its main attraction. As a direct narrative continuation of Project Phantasma, it permitted players to import their saved progress, carrying forward earned weapons and customizations. The foundational Armored Core titles on PlayStation laid the groundwork, cultivating features central to the series’ identity, all while keeping Kawamori’s distinctive mech designs in play. Like its predecessors, it will also become available on PlayStation Plus Premium on March 18.
Armored Core 2 | PlayStation 2 | 2000
From Software was among the pioneers in harnessing PlayStation 2’s capabilities, releasing Armored Core 2 as a launch title in North America in 2000. Set decades after its predecessors, players were immersed in a Martian terrain torn by civil war, boasting a considerable boost in graphics and dynamics like the Overboost feature. Soon after, Armored Core 2: Another Age ventured back to Earth with over 100 missions. Notably, its 2001 Japanese release marked a step into online gaming with the PS2’s Network Adaptor.
Armored Core 3 | PlayStation 2 | 2002
Continuing its PS2 saga in 2002, Armored Core 3 delved into familiar post-apocalyptic themes, this time highlighting subterranean bunkers monitored by a sinister AI. Innovations like allied Consorts and the mid-mission weapon discard feature enhanced gameplay, while the beloved Arena mode made a comeback. This era saw multiple continuations, including Armored Core 3: Silent Line and Nexus, each introducing novel gameplay shifts, albeit restricting prior data imports. Nexus’s narrative stretched across Nine Breaker and Last Raven, with numerous titles also finding a home on the PSP.
Armored Core 4 | PlayStation 3 | 2006
With the dawn of Armored Core 4, the PlayStation 3 ushered in high-definition mech warfare. Rebooting the storyline, it showcased corporations’ grip over Earth’s populace, with mercenaries in their employ. The revamped control system catered to both newcomers and veterans while the upgraded graphics amplified environmental destruction during battles. An immediate follow-up, Armored Core for Answer, continued this saga, weaving in themes of corporate oppression and rebel insurgence.
Armored Core V | PlayStation 3 | 2012
Debuting in 2012, Armored Core V returned to the franchise’s tactical roots. Shifts to a smaller mech design leaned into environmental interactions for strategic advantages. Teams, guided by an Operator, and mighty Overed Weapons enriched combat scenarios, while a new Scan mode offered intel and resource management. A year later, Verdict Day progressed the story, integrating more team-centric mechanics with AI-driven Armored Cores available to players.
Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon | PlayStation 5 | 2023
Fast forward to Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon, released after a decade-long hiatus since Verdict Day. This entry marked a renaissance for the franchise, drawing in newcomers and reigniting the passion of long-term fans of mech combat games. The overwhelming success of AC6 heralds a promising future for the series, leaving us eager to see where From Software will steer this iconic saga next.
