Are all the Armored Core games connected?

The Armored Core series is a collection of mech action games that have been released over the years, but the connection between the games is not straightforward, and while some games share the same universe, others are standalone titles with their own unique stories and gameplay mechanics. The series has a complex chronology, with some games being directly connected, such as Armored Core 4 and Armored Core 5, while others, like Armored Core 6, have their own separate storylines and are not directly connected to previous games.

Understanding the Armored Core Series

To provide a clearer understanding of the series, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions that address the connections between the games, as well as other relevant topics.

FAQs

1. Are all Armored Core games in the same universe?: While some games share the same universe, others are standalone titles with their own unique stories and gameplay mechanics.
2. Do I need to play the Armored Core games in order?: No, each game is a standalone title from a story perspective, and playing them in order is not necessary to enjoy the series.
3. Is Armored Core 6 connected to previous games?: Armored Core 6 has its own storyline and is not directly connected to previous games in the series.
4. Are the Armored Core games linked?: Some games, like Armored Core 4 and Armored Core 5, share continuity, but others are separate and do not have direct connections.
5. Can I play Armored Core 6 without playing the others?: Yes, Armored Core 6 is a standalone title, and playing previous games is not necessary to enjoy it.
6. Is Armored Core 6 a sequel to Armored Core 5?: No, Armored Core 6 is a separate game with its own storyline and is not a direct sequel to Armored Core 5.
7. How do I play the Armored Core games in order?: The games can be played in release date order, starting with the original Armored Core game released in 1997.
8. Which Armored Core game should I start with?: For new players, it is recommended to start with Armored Core 3, as it provides a solid introduction to the series and its gameplay mechanics.
9. Is Armored Core 6 a reboot of the series?: Yes, Armored Core 6 can be considered a reboot, as it introduces a new storyline and gameplay mechanics that are separate from previous games.
10. Does Armored Core 6 have a branching story?: Yes, Armored Core 6 features branching missions and multiple endings, depending on the player’s choices.
11. Is Armored Core 6 as hard as Dark Souls?: While Armored Core 6 is challenging, it is not as difficult as Dark Souls, but it does share some similarities with the Souls series.
12. Does Armored Core 6 take place on Earth?: No, Armored Core 6 takes place in a human-colonized solar system on the planet Rubicon 3.
13. Are any of the Armored Core games backwards compatible?: Unfortunately, most Armored Core games are not backwards compatible, and playing them requires older consoles or consoles from previous generations.
14. What is the best-selling Armored Core game?: Armored Core 6 is currently the top-selling game in the series, and it has received generally favorable reviews from critics and players.
15. Is Armored Core 6 canon?: The storyline of Armored Core 6 is separate from previous games, and while it shares some similarities, it is not directly connected to the previous Armored Core canon.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Armored Core series is a complex and diverse collection of games, with some titles sharing the same universe and others being standalone. While some games, like Armored Core 4 and Armored Core 5, are directly connected, others, like Armored Core 6, have their own separate storylines and gameplay mechanics. By understanding the connections between the games and the series as a whole, players can enjoy the Armored Core series and appreciate its unique blend of mech action and sci-fi elements.