Ev Haberler Armored Core Series: Top Pre-Fires of Rubicon Picks

Armored Core Series: Top Pre-Fires of Rubicon Picks

by Eric Jan 22,2025

Armored Core Game Selection Guide

Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon is on the horizon, but you might be wondering where to begin with this long-running mech series. This guide highlights the best Armored Core games to play before diving into the latest installment.

The Armored Core Legacy

Armored Core Franchise Overview

FromSoftware, renowned for its Souls-like games, boasts a rich history with the Armored Core franchise. Spanning decades and numerous titles (up to the early 2010s), this series puts you in the cockpit of powerful mechs, known as "Armored Cores," battling across a post-apocalyptic Earth. As a mercenary, your mission is simple: complete contracts for the highest bidder. Tasks range from eliminating rebel forces and scouting enemy bases to securing valuable cargo. Success earns you funds, crucial for mech maintenance and upgrades. Failure? Well, let's just say it's a costly mistake.

Armored Core Gameplay Mechanics

By 2013, the series comprised five main entries and numerous spin-offs, totaling sixteen games. The first two titles share a continuity, while Armored Core 3, 4, and 5 each feature separate storylines. Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon (August 25, 2023 release) will likely establish a new continuity. To prepare for this exciting new chapter, Game8 recommends the following Armored Core titles for a comprehensive introduction to the series. (A curated list of the best entries will follow here).