Developer: From Software
Publisher: Namco Bandei
Release Date: March 23rd, 2012
Let me get the ball rolling by saying I am a big fan of the Armored Core series ever since defeating Nine Ball (Hustler One) back in the first Armored Core game. That is why I have waited in an impatient matter for the latest instalment of the epic series.
Storyline
A downside to Armored Core V is that the storyline has somewhat taken a back seat in this game. Still set in a ruined future where humanity clutches to any inhabitable land it possibly can. The main plot of Armored Core V is a rebellion which has broken out against the ruler of the city known simply as ‘Father’. Your AC known as ‘Operator’ has a pivotal role to play in the rebellion and that is as much as I will indulge so as not to give spoilers.
There are 10 Story Missions that are quick to finish BUT can be quite challenging. Side-Missions (Sorties) need to be done most of the time in order to get funds to improve your AC so that the story can be cracked on with. This adds longevity to the story which is never a bad thing.
Rating: 3/5
(Not up to the same scratch as other Armored Core games but fun none the less)
Gameplay
Compared to newer Armored Core games the gameplay has changed somewhat. No longer being able to ‘fly’ to an extent but instead grappling up buildings, using the surroundings to shoot across the land and gliding. These changes might alarm the fans as it did me BUT this is actually quite a welcomed change that works towards what the developers have been trying to do. Armored Core makes a statement of using terrain and tactics in order to overcome your opponent which relates back to the beginning of the series, no longer does the game focus on who has the fastest finger which the newer games tended to focus on. Having the bigger gun might not guarantee success as stealth provides an excellent new element to the game. Schematics have also been removed and instead you can build your AC in the standard manner which we all know that we love.
Rating: 5/5
(Back to the start of the series which has fixed the recent problems, a welcomed change)
Multiplayer
The new Multiplayer interface is rather exciting and works really well. Players are able to form their own clans and encourage members to join or they can simply join an existing clan. The main map is split into territories which clans fight over and once in control you can position defences to hold off any would-be invaders when you are offline. The clan menu offers a quick chat button using the Left Trigger so that you can arrange games/invasions quickly. Another interesting aspect of multiplayer is Mercenary where you can either hire another Player to assist you or your clan with a mission/invasion/defence OR you can sell your services to another Player. The more you sell your services and succeed the higher your Mercenary Rank will get which will put faith in other Players that you can get the job done, thus be hired more.
Rating: 5/5
(An impressive idea that is executed flawlessly.)
Graphics
Graphically I think Armored Core V is quite stunning. The shimmer of energy that floats off energy weapons and the faint glow of the booster when gliding across the ground delivers the visual glee it was set out to do. Dust flies in the air as you hover past and the explosions are chaotic border lining beauty. There are some that would compare the graphics to other games and see flaws but in terms of Armored Core gaming, this is certainly an improvement.
Rating: 5/5
(Visually stunning)
Sound/Music
The mix of techno and electric guitars which is apparent in almost every game involving mechs does not fail to make an appearance in this game. The songs such as at the main menu are upbeat and keep you cheery and the sounds ranging from your: boosters, energy weapons, bullets, exploding enemies etc. is amazing.
Rating 5/5
(Sound is as fantastic as Armored Core games offer)
Recommended Price
Fans of the Armored Core series: £40
New to the Armored Core series: £20
Conclusion
Armored Core V is a fantastic game which refreshes what made the series great to begin with. Fans of the old Armored Core V games will love it and I personally suggest that if you gave up on the series long ago that you give this one a try. The challenge which the game offers is a welcomed change to the easy to play missions that similar games usually offer.
Rating: 4.6 (rounded up to 5 for Star System)
5.0