Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon, the newest chapter in the iconic mecha series, has sparked a divide among critics and gamers. Although the title boasts a “Very Positive” rating on Steam, it has also garnered over 2,000 negative reviews out of 11,900 reviews as of writing, resulting in a review bomb. This surge in negative attention hinges on a single, contentious issue that has divided the player base.
One of the primary criticisms aimed at the game is its notoriously challenging boss fights. The first boss encounter, with the AH12 HC Helicopter, serves as a prime example. Some gamers find themselves up against a boss that is too difficult to defeat, leaving them stuck on the first stage of the game.
One frustrated gamer shares, “Way too hard—lost to the first boss over 10 times and wasn’t even close to beating it. Ended up refunding the game. I simply don’t have the skills.”
In addition to the boss difficulty issue, another point of contention is the game’s perceived lack of originality. Some fans argue that Armored Core VI leans too heavily on the design philosophies of FromSoftware’s other blockbuster titles, such as Dark Souls and Elden Ring. This has led to criticism that the game lacks its own unique identity, appearing more like a reskinned version of its predecessors rather than a fresh, standalone entry in the long-running Armored Core series.
Despite these criticisms, there’s no denying that Armored Core VI has its merits. Reviewers have lauded the game for its breathtaking visuals, pulse-pounding combat sequences, and intricate customization options. For those who appreciate a demanding, high-stakes gaming experience, this installment seems to fit the bill perfectly.