Since the series is by FromSoftware, you might wonder if Armored Core 6 is a Souls-like. Many of the studio’s recent titles have featured similar gameplay, so you might think Armored Core is like Dark Souls as well. We’ll take a look at the series and whether it fits the Souls-like moniker or not.
Is Armored Core 6 like Dark Souls?
Armored Core 6 isn’t a Souls-like. The Armored Core series has more in common with third-person shooters than it does Dark Souls, but it does its own thing within the genre. Unlike the methodical combat and exploration found in Dark Souls, Armored Core centers around highly maneuverable mechs in smaller levels that get you right into the action.
There are some RPG elements in Armored Core 6. You have the ability to unlock, purchase, and equip new parts to make your mech more powerful. However, there’s no experience system, and you don’t level up as you go. You also can’t swap equipment on the fly. You’re locked into a set of equipment when the level starts, and you’re stuck with it until you hit the game over screen or complete your mission.
Armored Core 6 is a more traditionally structured linear game as well. Each mission has clearly defined objectives and will be a similar experience for all players. In contrast, in Dark Souls, you’re free to explore the world at your pace, and there are many paths you can take to complete your objectives.
While both games hail from FromSoftware, their gameplay dynamics differ substantially. Armored Core 6 offers a mech-focused, linear experience, whereas Dark Souls provides a more open-world, explorative challenge, showcasing the versatility of the studio’s game development prowess.
