What Is the Best Main Weapon in Armored Core 6?

The quest for the “best” main weapon in Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon is complex, with no single answer. However, for sheer versatility, consistent performance, and effectiveness against a wide range of enemies and bosses, the Pulse Blade and Pulse Gun combination emerges as a top contender. The Pulse Blade excels in delivering high impact stagger and devastating close-range damage, while the Pulse Gun melts through shields and AP with remarkable efficiency. This combination allows AC pilots to excel in most situations.

Understanding Weapon Categories in Armored Core 6

Before diving deeper, it’s crucial to understand the different weapon categories available in Armored Core 6. These categories define the type of damage, range, and utility each weapon offers.

• Rifles: Balanced weapons offering good damage, range, and fire rate.
• Assault Rifles: Higher fire rate than rifles, trading some damage and accuracy.
• Machine Guns: High sustained fire, effective against lightly armored targets.
• Shotguns: Devastating at close range, but limited effective range.
• Bazookas/Grenade Launchers: High explosive damage, good for staggering enemies.
• Missile Launchers: Lock-on weapons with varying tracking capabilities.
• Pulse Weapons: Specializes in dealing with shields and dealing pulse damage.
• Energy Weapons: Uses energy to deal damage and often specializes in dealing with shields.
• Melee Weapons: Close-combat options, typically for high stagger and burst damage.

Analyzing Top Weapon Choices

While the Pulse Blade and Pulse Gun combination provides a solid foundation, several other weapons deserve recognition as contenders for “best” depending on playstyle and mission requirements.

Rifles and Assault Rifles: The Reliable Options

Rifles and Assault Rifles are excellent starting points. The BR-01 RANKA rifle offers a good balance of damage, accuracy, and range. It is also a reliable option that allows AC pilots to get accustomed to the feel of the game. On the other hand, Assault Rifles like the RF-024 TURNER prioritize fire rate, making them effective against faster-moving targets, but less accurate at longer ranges. These weapons are typically used in conjunction with other hard-hitting weapons.

Shotguns: Close-Range Dominance

Shotguns such as the SG-027 ZIMMERMAN are devastating at close range and inflict massive stagger damage. They require pilots to be aggressive and get in close, making them high-risk, high-reward weapons. Many seasoned players find the SG-027 ZIMMERMAN to be a staple of their builds.

Bazookas and Grenade Launchers: Explosive Power

Bazookas and Grenade Launchers offer high burst damage and are excellent for staggering enemies. The DF-GA-08 HU-BEN is a powerful option, providing significant impact and explosive radius. However, their slow reload speed requires strategic usage.

Melee Weapons: Decisive Blows

Melee weapons such as the Pulse Blade and Laser Dagger provide crucial burst damage. The Pulse Blade excels at delivering devastating blows and inflicting stagger. Pilots need to be in close proximity, meaning a strong understanding of positioning is needed.

Dual Wielding: Amplifying Damage

Armored Core 6 allows dual-wielding of weapons, effectively doubling the damage output. Dual SMGs or Shotguns can shred through enemies at close range, while dual Rifles provide consistent damage at medium range. Players must be aware of weight limits and EN load when dual-wielding.

Beyond Raw Stats: Considering EN Load and Weight

The “best” weapon isn’t solely about damage numbers. EN Load (Energy Load) and weight significantly impact your AC’s mobility and energy management. A weapon with high damage but excessive weight or EN load can cripple your AC’s performance. Finding a balance between damage output and mobility is key.

The Pulse Blade and Pulse Gun Synergy

The synergy between the Pulse Blade and Pulse Gun lies in their complementary strengths.

• Pulse Gun’s Shield-Breaking Ability: The Pulse Gun’s rapid-fire pulses quickly deplete enemy shields, leaving them vulnerable to direct damage.
• Pulse Blade’s Stagger and Damage: Once the shield is down, the Pulse Blade can deliver a devastating blow, often causing significant stagger and damage.
• Adapting to Different Encounters: This combination allows players to efficiently handle shielded enemies, deal burst damage during openings, and maintain consistent pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best weapon for beginners in Armored Core 6?

The BR-01 RANKA rifle is highly recommended for beginners. It provides a balance of damage, accuracy, and range, making it forgiving and effective. Additionally, simple missile launchers are great for additional damage.

2. How important is stagger in Armored Core 6 combat?

Stagger is extremely important. Staggering an enemy leaves them vulnerable to follow-up attacks, significantly increasing damage output. Weapons with high impact are excellent for inducing stagger.

3. What is the best way to deal with heavily shielded enemies?

Pulse Weapons, especially the Pulse Gun, are highly effective at depleting shields. Energy weapons can also work, but Pulse weapons are more efficient.

4. Are melee weapons viable in Armored Core 6?

Yes, melee weapons are very viable. The Pulse Blade is particularly effective for delivering high burst damage and inflicting stagger, especially after shield depletion.

5. How do I manage EN Load in Armored Core 6?

Pay attention to your AC’s EN Load stat. Exceeding the limit reduces mobility and energy regeneration. Choose weapons and parts that keep your EN Load within a manageable range.

6. What are the best early-game weapons to acquire?

The starting rifle and missile launcher are decent. However, the SG-027 ZIMMERMAN and Pulse Blade are often farmed early on for their exceptional power.

7. Should I focus on damage or impact when choosing weapons?

It depends on your playstyle. High damage is good for direct damage output, while high impact is crucial for staggering enemies. A balance of both is often ideal.

8. How do I effectively use missile launchers?

Learn the tracking capabilities of different missile launchers. Some are better at tracking fast-moving targets, while others are more effective against stationary or slow-moving enemies. Manage your lock-on range and timing your launches for maximum impact.

9. What is the best way to optimize my weapon loadout?

Experiment with different weapon combinations to find what suits your playstyle and the mission requirements. Consider the EN Load, weight, damage type, and range of each weapon.

10. Are there any “OP” (overpowered) weapons in Armored Core 6?

While there are no outright “OP” weapons, some are considered very strong and popular due to their effectiveness and versatility, like the SG-027 ZIMMERMAN. These can be effective against many situations.

11. How important are weapon upgrades in Armored Core 6?

Weapon upgrades are crucial. Upgrading weapons increases their damage, impact, and efficiency, significantly improving their performance.

12. Can I change weapons mid-mission in Armored Core 6?

No, you cannot change weapons mid-mission. It’s essential to choose your loadout carefully before starting a mission.

13. How do I unlock new weapons in Armored Core 6?

New weapons are unlocked by progressing through the story, completing missions, and purchasing them from the shop using earned currency.

14. Is dual-wielding always better than using a single weapon?

Not necessarily. Dual-wielding can significantly increase damage output, but it also increases EN Load and weight, potentially hindering mobility. Assess the trade-offs carefully.

15. What is the best weapon against specific bosses in Armored Core 6?

The “best” weapon against specific bosses depends on their weaknesses and attack patterns. Experimenting with different weapons and strategies is essential to find the most effective approach. In general, prioritize weapons that can quickly deplete shields and inflict stagger. A close combat strategy with a pulse blade can often deal significant damage.