Armored Core Games Ranked: Best To Worst

Quick Links :

The Armored Core series has been a staple of mech action games for over two decades, with a dedicated fan base and a wide range of games across various platforms. From its humble beginnings on the PlayStation to its current status as a beloved franchise, Armored Core has captivated gamers with its unique blend of mech customization, fast-paced action, and deep storytelling. In this article, we'll rank the Armored Core games from best to worst, taking into account their critical reception, impact on the series, and overall enjoyment factor.

Understanding the Series

Before diving into the rankings, it's essential to understand the Armored Core series' history and evolution. The first Armored Core game was released in 1997 for the PlayStation, developed by FromSoftware, a Japanese studio that would later become famous for the Dark Souls series and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. The game introduced players to a world of mech combat, where they could customize and pilot their own Armored Core, a powerful mech suit.

Over the years, the series has expanded to include numerous sequels, spin-offs, and remakes, with some games receiving more critical acclaim than others. The series has also undergone significant changes, including shifts in gameplay mechanics, graphics, and storylines.

Ranking the Armored Core Games

1. Armored Core 3 (2002)

Armored Core 3 is widely considered one of the best games in the series, and for good reason. Released in 2002 for the PlayStation 2, it built upon the foundations established by its predecessors and introduced several innovative features, including a more complex storyline, improved graphics, and enhanced customization options.

The game's narrative is particularly noteworthy, exploring themes of identity, humanity, and the consequences of technological advancements. The gameplay is also exceptional, with a perfect balance of action and strategy that makes for an engaging and challenging experience.

2. Armored Core: Master of Arena (1999)

Armored Core: Master of Arena is an expansion to the original Armored Core game, released in 1999 for the PlayStation. It introduces new multiplayer modes, arenas, and customization options, making it a must-play for fans of the series.

The game's arena mode is particularly enjoyable, allowing players to compete against each other in intense mech battles. The addition of new customization options also enhances the game's replay value, making it a great choice for those who enjoy tinkering with their mechs.

3. Armored Core: Nexus (2004)

Armored Core: Nexus is a 2004 release for the PlayStation 2, developed by FromSoftware. It marks a significant departure from the series' traditional gameplay mechanics, introducing a new "Nexus" system that allows players to combine different mech parts to create unique combinations.

The game's storyline is also noteworthy, exploring the consequences of a catastrophic event that has left the world in ruins. The gameplay is fast-paced and action-packed, with a focus on exploration and discovery.

4. Armored Core: Last Raven (2006)

Armored Core: Last Raven is a 2006 release for the PlayStation 2, developed by FromSoftware. It marks the final game in the Armored Core 3 series and concludes the storyline in a satisfying manner.

The game's gameplay is similar to its predecessors, with a focus on mech customization and action-packed combat. The addition of new multiplayer modes and customization options enhances the game's replay value, making it a great choice for fans of the series.

5. Armored Core: Verdict Day (2013)

Armored Core: Verdict Day is a 2013 release for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, developed by FromSoftware. It marks a significant departure from the series' traditional gameplay mechanics, introducing a new "Verdict" system that allows players to make choices that impact the game's storyline.

The game's narrative is also noteworthy, exploring themes of morality and consequence. However, the gameplay is somewhat marred by poor controls and a lack of innovation, making it a less enjoyable experience compared to other games in the series.

Worst Games in the Series

1. Armored Core: Silent Line (2003)

Armored Core: Silent Line is a 2003 release for the PlayStation 2, developed by FromSoftware. It is widely considered one of the worst games in the series, due to its poor controls, lackluster storyline, and limited customization options.

The game's gameplay is also marred by poor level design and a lack of challenge, making it a less enjoyable experience compared to other games in the series.

2. Armored Core: Project Phantasma (1997)

Armored Core: Project Phantasma is a 1997 release for the PlayStation, developed by FromSoftware. It is an expansion to the original Armored Core game, but it fails to deliver on its promise, with poor controls, a lackluster storyline, and limited customization options.

The game's gameplay is also somewhat dated, making it a less enjoyable experience compared to other games in the series.

Conclusion

The Armored Core series has a dedicated fan base, and for good reason. With its unique blend of mech customization, fast-paced action, and deep storytelling, it has captivated gamers for over two decades. While some games in the series are better than others, each one offers a unique experience that is worth playing.

Whether you're a fan of mech action games or just looking for a new challenge, the Armored Core series has something to offer. So, what are you waiting for? Join the fight and pilot your own Armored Core today!

FAQ Section