Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon is a fresh robot fighting game by FromSoftware that brings hours of high-tech combat, customization, and challenging multiplayer missions. The game is divided into different objectives settled into the mech-vs-mech universe. Players will have to control fast-paced machines that can be customized for more firepower, speed, and durability.
To spice up the gameplay players can add their favorite decals to make it look dangerously friendly. This is our test and viewpoint on AC6, this review talks about gameplay mechanics, the 4K performance test, and whether should you buy this or save money for Starfield.
Gameplay
Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon offers a substantial gameplay experience with its main story spanning approximately 30 to 40 hours, complemented by an additional 8 to 10 hours of content in a new game mode. The game incorporates multiple endings, which are determined by player choices, adding replayability to the experience.
The core of AC6 revolves around its combat system, which offers a variety of weapons and abilities. Players can extensively customize and modify their mechs, utilizing a detailed in-game menu to buy and sell upgrades as they progress. Aiming to enhance the challenge, the game encourages players to achieve S-Rank ratings in missions, which unlock better rewards.
In terms of gameplay mechanics, AC6 provides players with a range of super-hero abilities, including super jump, super sprint, and dash attack, enhancing the mech’s combat capabilities. While there may be a slight learning curve for controlling the robot, the game efficiently introduces mission objectives without excessive briefings or cutscenes. The focus is on delivering a fast-paced combat and action-oriented experience.
Graphics:
Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon consistently runs at 60fps across various resolutions, namely 1080p, 1440p, and 4K, provided that the hardware specifications are met. Our tests confirm that frame rates remain stable contingent on the capability of the hardware to support the chosen resolution. The game exhibits efficient rendering performance during high-fidelity scenes, encompassing scenarios such as explosions, high-velocity aerial maneuvers, and rapid combat sequences.
Featuring intricate mech designs and expansive arenas, the game offers an immersive machine-on-machine combat experience. Set within a mechanized science fiction environment devoid of human intervention, players are tasked with selecting a mech and executing set objectives. We ran the game on 1080p and 4K @ 60ps to find out how well the game can perform. A 4K resolution test was done on a Ryzen-powered gaming PC running on RTX 4080 GPU. 1080p and 4K were tested on a gaming laptop – Alienware x17 R2.
Performance Test:
Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon showcases stable performance and is largely free of technical glitches. Mission load times are present, but they’re within reasonable limits. Our assessment took place on the Alienware x17 R2, both at 1080p on the built-in display and at 4K using a connected 32-inch LG 4K monitor. The gameplay remained seamless throughout our testing period.
It’s noteworthy to mention that for optimal performance, particularly at 4K resolution, it’s advised to keep the Alienware x17 R2 connected to its power source; our tests indicated noticeable lag in the absence of direct power. However, at 1080p, the game’s execution was exceptionally fluid. This laptop comes equipped with a Core i9-12900HK processor and an RTX 3080 Ti GPU.
During 4K testing, both the CPU and GPU temperatures reached their peak, but the system maintained resilience, ensuring uninterrupted gameplay. Users may observe high fan noise and heat output, yet our evaluation confirms the Alienware x17 R2 is capable of handling such load.
On our secondary setup, we utilized the Ryzen 9 7950 system paired with the RTX 4080 FE GPU, tailored for serious gaming enthusiasts. Its 12GB of GPU memory ensures sharp, uninterrupted graphical performance. The game, when set to high graphical settings, delivered impressive visuals. When paired with a 4K display, the clarity of the images is notable, bringing the large-scale mechs, combat robots, and expansive landscapes to life.
Verdict:
Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon stands out as a notable addition to any gamer’s collection. After quite a long time, gamers have seen a nice and direct, robot combat-centric game. While customization and modifications enhance the gameplay, the heart of Armored Core 6 lies in its forward-thinking combat. Players have the opportunity to elevate their mech’s performance, optimizing upgrades for both health and energy metrics. Even after hours of gameplay, replaying missions remains engaging. Gamer rage will overpower you in between objectives but if you can control your bot well you are unstoppable.
In Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon, there’s a clear emphasis on raw gameplay mechanics, sidelining an intricate narrative. The game’s focus is combat, ensuring a streamlined player experience. Extended cutscenes and deep character backgrounds are minimal; the machines take center stage. Machines are smarter, they will do specifically what they are built to do.