Armored Core 6: A Comprehensive Guide to Unlocking Every Mech Part

So, you want to become the ultimate Armored Core 6 pilot, eh? That means decking out your AC with the best weaponry, the sturdiest armor, and the slickest internals. But acquiring every single mech part in Armored Core 6 isn’t as simple as emptying your wallet at the Parts Shop. It demands exploration, dedication, and a willingness to dive deep into the game’s various systems. Here’s the breakdown of how to acquire absolutely everything:

The most direct method is by completing missions within the campaign. As you progress, more parts will naturally become available for purchase in the Parts Shop.

1. The Parts Shop: This is your main hub for acquiring new gear. Progress through the story to unlock a larger selection of items for purchase. COAM, the game’s currency, is earned by completing missions, so keep racking up those contracts.

2. Training Missions: Don’t underestimate these! Certain parts are exclusively unlocked by completing the Training Missions. These are invaluable for learning core gameplay mechanics and rewarding you with unique equipment in the process.

3. Hidden Parts: Scattered throughout the game’s missions are hidden containers marked by blinking lights. These containers always contain a new part for your AC. Look for off-the-beaten-path areas and secret locations to find them all.

4. Combat Logs and the LOGHUNT Program: Enemies designated as “Elite” sometimes drop Combat Logs when destroyed. Collecting these logs contributes to the LOGHUNT program. Completing tiers within the LOGHUNT program will award you with unique and powerful parts that cannot be obtained elsewhere. This involves repeated playthroughs, and can be acquired through New Game Plus.

5. New Game Plus (NG+): Some parts are only unlockable by playing through the game multiple times. New Game Plus introduces new missions and alters existing ones, providing access to content and parts that weren’t available during your first playthrough. This is essential for achieving full completion.

Diving Deeper: Earning Your Arsenal

Mastering the Parts Shop

The Parts Shop is your central hub, but its inventory isn’t static. It expands as you progress through the campaign. Focus on clearing missions, especially the more challenging ones, to unlock a wider variety of frames, weapons, and internals. Prioritize completing missions with high COAM payouts to maximize your purchasing power.

Unearthing Hidden Treasures

The hidden parts are the true test of your observational skills. They’re often tucked away in corners of the map that most players would simply fly past. Keep an eye out for blinking lights and areas that seem deliberately tucked away. Use your scan function frequently to reveal hidden passages or breakable walls that might lead to these valuable caches. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different AC builds to reach seemingly inaccessible locations.

The LOGHUNT: A Hunter’s Game

The LOGHUNT program adds a compelling layer of replayability. Identifying and eliminating those Elite AC pilots, is no easy task. They often come with unique loadouts and aggressive AI, demanding sharp reflexes and a well-tuned AC to defeat. Remember that the availability of Elite enemies and Combat Logs can change between playthroughs in New Game Plus, so don’t expect the same encounters every time.

Embracing New Game Plus

New Game Plus in Armored Core 6 isn’t just a victory lap; it’s a necessary step towards unlocking everything. The alternate missions and new choices presented in subsequent playthroughs open up entirely new avenues for acquiring parts. Some parts are tied specifically to certain endings, so you’ll need to experience all three to truly complete your collection. This is where your knowledge of enemy weaknesses, mission layouts, and efficient AC builds will truly shine.

Optimizing Your AC: Finding the Perfect Fit

Once you’ve amassed a sizable collection of parts, the real fun begins: optimizing your AC for specific combat scenarios. Experiment with different combinations to discover builds that synergize well. Consider factors like:

• Weapon Synergy: Do your weapons complement each other’s strengths and weaknesses?
• Energy Management: Can your generator supply enough energy for your weapons and boosters?
• Mobility: Can you move quickly enough to evade enemy fire and close the distance for melee attacks?
• Armor and Stability: Can your AC withstand a barrage of attacks and remain stable under pressure?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I unlock more parts in the Parts Shop?

You unlock more parts in the Parts Shop by progressing through the main story campaign. Completing missions is the key to expanding the shop’s inventory.

2. Are there any missable parts in Armored Core 6?

No, but some parts require specific choices and mission completions in New Game Plus, effectively requiring multiple playthroughs to acquire everything.

3. What are Combat Logs, and how do I get them?

Combat Logs are dropped by defeated Elite AC enemies. Collecting them contributes to the LOGHUNT program and unlocks unique parts.

4. How do I access the LOGHUNT program?

The LOGHUNT program unlocks automatically as you collect Combat Logs during missions.

5. Do I need to play New Game Plus to get all the parts?

Yes, some parts are exclusively available in New Game Plus due to alternate missions and different story choices.

6. Where can I find hidden parts?

Hidden parts are located in containers throughout the game’s missions, often in off-the-beaten-path areas or behind breakable walls. Look for blinking lights and use your scan function frequently.

7. What is the best way to earn COAM quickly?

Focus on completing missions with high COAM payouts. Replaying missions on higher difficulties can also increase your earnings.

8. Can I sell parts I don’t need?

Yes, you can sell parts back to the Parts Shop for a partial refund of their original price. This is a good way to free up COAM for new purchases.

9. What are Training Missions, and why are they important?

Training Missions teach you core gameplay mechanics and award you with unique parts upon completion. Don’t skip them!

10. Does the difficulty setting affect part acquisition?

No, the difficulty setting does not affect part acquisition. You can obtain all parts regardless of the difficulty you choose.

11. What is the best leg type in Armored Core 6?

Each Leg Type will determine the general playstyle of an AC, so it will fall under the players’ preference once they pick a starting part. Bipedal Legs: VE-42A, Reverse Joint: RG-2000 SPRING CHICKEN, Tetrapod Legs: LG-033M-VERRILL, and Treads: EL-TL-11 FORTALEZA.

12. Are there any parts locked behind specific endings?

Yes, some parts are tied to specific story choices and endings, requiring you to play through the game multiple times to see everything.

13. How long does it take to collect all parts in Armored Core 6?

Achieving 100% completion and acquiring all parts can take around 50-60 hours, depending on your playstyle and efficiency.

14. Where can I learn more about optimizing my AC build?

Experimentation is key, but you can also find valuable information and build guides on online forums and communities dedicated to Armored Core 6.

15. What are some resources for further learning about game design and mechanics?

For those interested in the deeper aspects of game design, exploring resources from organizations like the Games Learning Society, accessible at GamesLearningSociety.org, can offer valuable insights into how games like Armored Core 6 are structured and how they engage players.

By following these guidelines and embracing the challenge, you’ll be well on your way to building the ultimate Armored Core and dominating the battlefields of Rubicon 3!