Hey everyone here is my review for Armored Core 6. It's my YouTube script so bare with me.

If you'd rather watch the video click this link > https://youtu.be/Y_59Y4NEzUA

Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon Spoiler Review | Unveiling the Mech Warfare Saga!

"Hey, mech enthusiasts! I'm Andrew, your host, and today, we're delving into the action-packed world of Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon. Whether you're a seasoned pilot or just strapping into the cockpit for the first time, I'm thrilled to have you with us. To kick things off, we'll start by summarizing the story so far, giving you a glimpse into the narrative landscape.

After that, we'll throttle into a detailed review, breaking down the game's highs and lows. If you're steering clear of spoilers, no worries—just skip ahead to chapter 2. So, let's power up those mechs and get ready for an adventure in the Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon!

In 2023, FromSoftware and Bandai Namco Entertainment brought us Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon, a thrilling mecha-based vehicular combat game. This installment marks a reboot for the franchise, breaking the silence since the release of Armored Core: Verdict Day in 2013.

Available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S, the game has received widespread acclaim for its revitalization of the series.

Armored Core VI has not only garnered favorable reviews but has also achieved remarkable commercial success, with 1.3 million copies sold on the Windows platform alone. In September of 2016, Hidetaka Miyazaki, the president of FromSoftware, hinted at the early stages of development for a new installment in the Armored Core series. Fast forward to January 2022, and the development of a potential new Armored Core series entry came to light, thanks to details leaked during a focus test.

The official announcement of the game took center stage at The Game Awards 2022 in December, revealing Armored Core VI to the eager gaming community.

Heading the project as director for his debut in this role was Masaru Yamamura, previously a lead game designer on Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. Yamamura assumed the directorial mantle from Miyazaki, who initially spearheaded the development. The role of the game's producer fell to Yasunori Ogura, overseeing the intricate details of bringing Armored Core VI to life. Despite the collective eagerness of many FromSoftware staff members to embark on a new Armored Core venture, resource allocation considerations prompted a delay in the project's initiation. Finally, in 2018, the game transitioned into the prototyping phase, with Yamamura stepping into the directorial position once the gameplay foundations were firmly established.

Taking charge of the game's auditory landscape was Kota Hoshino, serving as the lead composer. Throughout the development process, Yamamura provided Hoshino with keywords to shape the game's atmosphere, aiming to evoke a distinct "sense of loneliness and nostalgia." Hoshino enjoyed creative freedom in composing tracks, adapting them to align seamlessly with the game's evolving narrative flow. Complementing Hoshino's contributions, additional music for Armored Core VI was crafted by Takashi Onodera and Shoi Miyazawa.

Armored Core VI unfolds in a distant future where humanity has expanded its reach into the cosmos. The stage is set on the frontier planet of Rubicon 3, where the remarkable substance known as Coral has been unearthed. This versatile material serves dual purposes, acting both as a potent energy source and a conduit for data transmission. Initially celebrated as the catalyst for technological progress, Coral takes an unforeseen turn, triggering the catastrophic Fires of Ibis. This calamity engulfs Rubicon 3 and its neighboring star system in relentless flames, leaving behind a perilous contaminant.

In the aftermath, Coral, presumed to be entirely consumed by the disaster, reemerges on Rubicon 3 half a century later. The renewed presence of Coral sparks a frenzied rush among corporations eager to exploit its potential, regardless of the consequences for the planet and its inhabitants. Mercenaries, drawn by the promise of lucrative opportunities in the ensuing conflict, descend upon Rubicon 3. At the center of this tumultuous narrative is the player, an augmented human bearing the designation "C4-621." Bound in servitude to the enigmatic handler Walter, the player operates as an Armored Core pilot, undertaking mercenary assignments with the hope of securing a new life.

The journey kicks off with C4-621's illicit landing on Rubicon 3, a bold move that sets the stage for the character's identity shift. In a daring act, C4-621 appropriates the license of a deceased mercenary, adopting the call sign "Raven." This pivotal decision thrusts the player into a complex web of corporate greed, conflict, and personal evolution against the backdrop of a planet scarred by the devastating legacy of Coral.

The core focus of gameplay in Armored Core VI centers around immersive mecha-based vehicular combat. Players step into the shoes of skilled pilots, commanding formidable mechs known as Armored Cores. The game's standout feature lies in the extensive customization options, allowing players to fine-tune and augment their mechs using a diverse array of parts, thereby refining their capabilities.

A notable element of the game is the freedom granted to players in arming their mechs. With slots available on each arm and two on the mech's back, players can equip a variety of weaponry, offering strategic flexibility during combat engagements. The vast arsenal at players' disposal adds depth to the gameplay experience.

Continuing the tradition of its predecessors, Armored Core VI retains the arena concept through a "combat aptitude evaluation program." This mode enables players to showcase their skills, competing against others and earning "OS Tuning" chips, unlocking specific abilities and upgrades.

The in-game currency, credits, is a reward for successful mission completion. The amount earned is influenced by achieving mission objectives, with potential deductions for unmet goals.

A departure from earlier games in the series, Armored Core VI discards the debt system. Unlike its predecessors, where failed tasks resulted in monetary losses, players now have the freedom to attempt missions repeatedly without the fear of losing currency. This change adds a refreshing layer of flexibility to the overall gaming experience.

In Armored Core 6, The augmented mercenary, known by the callsign C4-621, infiltrates the war-torn landscape of Rubicon with the guidance of Handler Walter, a broker, assuming the identity of the deceased mercenary "Raven." Amidst the conflict involving megacorporations Balam Industries and Arquebus Corp, the anti-corporation Rubicon Liberation Front (RLF), and the Planetary Closure Administration (PCA), all vying for control of the mysterious Coral, Raven befriends elite AC pilot V.IV Rusty and RaD leader "Cinder" Carla. During battles, Raven makes contact with an entity named Ayre, establishing a direct mental link.

Following a Coral surge detected by Walter, Raven investigates the Central Ice Field, drawing Balam and Arquebus into the fray. The PCA, alarmed by the convergence of Coral, deploys military forces and superweapons to suppress the corporations. In response to the PCA threat, Balam and Arquebus form an alliance, tasking Raven with weakening the PCA. After dismantling the PCA's Ice Worm, Ayre reveals the sentience of Coral, divulging her own identity as a Coral-based entity.

As the PCA withdraws, the alliance between Balam and Arquebus shatters, reigniting the three-way war. Walter directs Raven to explore Institute City, unearthing the Coral deposit and the Vascular Plant designed to extract and send Coral into space. Captured by Arquebus forces, Raven escapes with Carla's help, discovering their shared affiliation with Overseer, a group determined to eradicate Coral. Carla plans to use the Xylem, a colony ship, to destroy the Vascular Plant, while Ayre opposes the destruction.

If Raven sides with Carla, Ayre severs ties, and a series of confrontations ensue. Raven battles Rusty, confronts Ayre, and ultimately faces the apocalyptic outcome of the Fires of Raven. In the aftermath, Rubicon is left barren, and Raven's fate is uncertain.

Choosing to side with Ayre, Raven eliminates Carla, triggers the failsafe on the Xylem, and collaborates with the RLF to overthrow Arquebus. A confrontation with Walter ensues, leading to Raven's escape and the prevention of a catastrophic collision. Ayre expresses gratitude for protecting Coral and Rubicon, envisioning a coexistent future for Coral and humanity.

In a New Game Plus, Raven embarks on RLF missions and battles AI-controlled ACs. In a subsequent New Game Plus campaign, Ayre discovers classified data while ALLMIND recruits Raven into the Coral Release Project. Assignments from ALLMIND progress the Release Project, culminating in a mission aboard the Xylem to seize control. Raven and Ayre thwart ALLMIND, initiating the Coral Release, spreading Coral across the universe, and ushering in a new era.

Transitioning from the intricate plot of Armored Core 6 to the realm of gameplay evaluation, the game's narrative complexity intertwines with its interactive facets. As Raven embarks on New Game Plus scenarios, the gameplay evolves, presenting fresh challenges and opportunities for exploration. Now, let's shift gears from the engrossing storyline to dissecting the gameplay intricacies of Armored Core 6, exploring how its narrative choices impact the player's experience in this high-stakes world of mechanized warfare.

In the wake of FromSoftware's illustrious journey from Souls to Sekiro and Elden Ring, Armored Core 6 marks a triumphant resurgence, proving that the decade-long hiatus was indeed well worth the wait. This latest installment is a "we're back on our bullshit" slam dunk, showcasing a bold departure from the expansive open worlds dominating the gaming landscape in 2023.

Amidst the sea of sprawling 100-hour RPGs and the unprecedented success of Elden Ring, Armored Core 6 stands as a stark contrast. Eschewing the vast, open environments, the game beckons players to select missions from a menu, delivering concise briefings before deploying their mechs into intense, fast-paced battles. Whether hurling players into frenzied encounters or punctuating larger environments with snack-sized combat encounters, each mission culminates in thrilling 1v1 showdowns against other ACs or colossal bosses. The post-mission return to the menu, allowing for mech tinkering and part acquisition, provides a well-deserved moment of respite.

The simplicity in construction and the sheer thrill in action evoke childhood fantasies of orchestrating epic clashes with favorite action figures. Armored Core 6 transforms these dreams into reality, enabling players to assemble their ultimate mechs and materialize vibrant, neon-hued death machines that rain lasers and hellfire, capturing the essence of pure coolness.

In a nod to anime enthusiasts raised on Mobile Suit Gundam, Armored Core 6 is likened to Top Gun: Maverick, with meticulous attention to detail in mech articulation. The subtle thruster movements, the play of flames turning to steam, and the vibrant bloom of a plasma blade slicing through mechs or battleships contribute to the game's joyous experience.
The emphasis on sound effects, such as the impactful DUN-DUN of the Songbirds shoulder-mounted cannon, becomes a pivotal element, delivering explosive impact and staggering opponents.

Noteworthy is Armored Core 6's distinction as FromSoftware's first PC game supporting frame rates over 60 fps. While lacking some modern PC gaming features, the game performs splendidly, even on the Steam Deck with lowered settings, maintaining playability while sacrificing some image quality.

A standout design choice is the deliberate accentuation of the killing blow in every mission with a slow-motion explosion, stretching that instant into 10 seconds of glory. This decision plays a crucial role in the overall game design, underlining the meticulous craftsmanship that defines Armored Core 6.

Narratively, the game offers more explicit storytelling than FromSoftware's RPGs, exploring a corporate dystopia with leaders of Rubicon's mercenary squads providing voice messages after each sortie. The branching narrative, influenced by mission choices and character eliminations, adds depth and encourages replayability, revealing new narrative paths with each playthrough.

While praising the game's ruthlessly maintained tone and the absence of lives outside mechs, the review acknowledges minor disappointments. The environments, though stunning snapshots of a crumbling techno dystopia, lack interactivity beyond hidden chests and lore-laden wrecked mechs. Despite this, AC6's lean and focused nature is celebrated as a strength, providing an immersive experience.

In summary, Armored Core 6 emerges as a rare gem in 2023, embracing its identity with audacity and delivering an action-packed experience that captivates players with its fast-paced missions, empowering arsenal, and nostalgic mech fantasies. After a decade-long hiatus, FromSoftware's return to the world of mechs showcases a triumphant resurgence in their distinctive style, reaffirming the timeless appeal of Armored Core.

Thank you for joining me for this in-depth review of Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon. If you enjoyed this video, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more content. Stay tuned for more reviews and discussions on your favorite games, tv shows and movies. Until next time, I’m Andrew, signing off. Catch you in the next one!

Hey everyone, here is my YouTube script/review for Lies of P. If you'd rather watch my video click this link > https://youtu.be/2aXQQty1RBc

Lies of P: Unveiling the Dark Symphony of Puppetry and Truth"

Hello, everyone! I'm Andrew, your host, and today we're immersing ourselves in the enchanting world of Lies of P on Playstation 5, a realm inspired by fairy tales and the timeless Pinocchio story. Whether you're a dedicated fan returning or joining us for the first time, I'm excited to have you here with us. Let's kick things off by delving into a comprehensive plot summary before we shift gears into a detailed game review. And, hey, if you're looking to avoid spoilers, feel free to skip ahead to chapter 2 of this video!

In an eerie awakening, Pinocchio emerges within the desolation of an abandoned train, finding himself stranded in the puppet-dominated city of Krat. The once-harmonious existence between humans and puppets has crumbled, with the puppet population rebelling against the Grand Covenant, resulting in a brutal massacre of most humans. The narrative takes a gripping turn as Pinocchio's journey unfolds.

The puppet protagonist navigates the haunting streets of Krat, encountering the remnants of human survivors sheltered in Hotel Krat. Among them is the enigmatic Sophia, who becomes a pivotal figure in Pinocchio's quest. Tasked with a mission of utmost importance, Pinocchio learns from Sophia that his creator, Geppetto, holds the key to quelling the puppet uprising. To aid him in this perilous journey, Sophia entrusts Pinocchio with a lantern containing Gemini, a cricket guide.

As Pinocchio ventures through the beleaguered city, he confronts not only the rebel puppets but also a faction known as the Stalkers—animal-masked humans driven mad by the chaos. The Red Fox and Black Cat, members of this ominous group, closely watch Pinocchio's every move.

Alongside battling mutated citizens transformed into monstrous beings by the Petrification Disease, Pinocchio gradually unravels the mystery behind the puppet rebellion.
Upon finally locating Geppetto, the puppet maker reveals a dark truth—the Puppet King, manipulated by an entity known as Ergo, is orchestrating the puppet madness. Pinocchio sets out to confront and destroy the Puppet King, severing the puppet rebellion's leadership. Geppetto then directs Pinocchio to seek out the Alchemists, who claim to have a cure for the Petrification Disease.

However, the quest takes a sinister turn when Pinocchio is ambushed by mutated humans turned cyborgs, led by Simon Manus, the Alchemists' cunning leader. Simon unveils a shocking revelation—Ergo is formed from humans and embodies their memories and life force, a force harnessed for malevolent purposes.

Returning to Hotel Krat, Pinocchio faces a heartbreaking scene—the Black Rabbit Brotherhood, led by Simon, has attacked, and Geppetto is kidnapped. To rescue his creator, Pinocchio commandeers a submarine to reach the Isle of Alchemists. The ensuing battles lead him to Simon's castle, where he discovers the truth about Sophia's existence and the twisted experiments conducted by the Alchemists.

In a poignant choice, Pinocchio decides Sophia's fate, leading to two potential endings. If he chose mercy, Geppetto's heartbreaking demise follows; if not, a tearful farewell transpires as Pinocchio, armed with newfound humanity, faces the consequences of his decisions.

Post-credits, a mysterious figure named Philippus Paracelsus, operating under the guise of Giangio, reports the "Krat experiment" findings, hinting at the pursuit of eternal life. Meanwhile, in Krat, a girl in red shoes, reminiscent of Dorothy, clicks her heels—a subtle yet foreboding nod to an untold chapter in this intricate tale.

Now that we've delved into the gripping narrative that unfolds within the game, let's shift our focus to the gameplay mechanics and overall gaming experience. How well does the story integrate with the gameplay, and does the game manage to deliver on its promises? Let's dive into the mechanics and explore what truly makes this title stand out in the gaming landscape.

In the saturated realm of soulslike games, "Lies of P" emerges as a gripping tale, drawing inspiration from the acclaimed Bloodborne while carving its own niche. Within its intricately designed universe, often compared to From Software's creations, Lies of P delivers a captivating narrative, engaging combat, and meticulously crafted boss encounters. While some critics label it as overly reminiscent of Bloodborne, to enthusiasts of the genre like myself, it represents a long-awaited manifestation of the haunting world I've craved. From the fluid combat mechanics to the eerie city of Krat, every aspect of Lies of P is steeped in the essence of a twisted Pinocchio reimagining.

Navigating Lies of P, one quickly recognizes the familiarity of its mechanics: the precise parrying, the strategic timing, the relentless onslaught of formidable foes. Yet, it's precisely these elements that make it a triumph. Each victory is hard-earned, every encounter a thrill, and the exhilaration of deciphering a boss's pattern becomes an addictive pursuit. The game's unique twist lies in the choice between truth and lies, a thematic homage to Pinocchio. This mechanic adds layers to the story, offering players the agency to shape their journey.

The strength of Lies of P lies not only in its challenging combat but also in its rich narrative. The game weaves a haunting tale that explores the desire for truth and the consequences of deception. As a player who values storytelling, Lies of P's approachable yet profound narrative resonated deeply. The game masterfully balances exploration, combat, and storytelling, creating an immersive experience that kept me engaged for over 30 hours.

Visually, the city of Krat is a dystopian marvel, intricately designed and hauntingly beautiful. Exploring its alleys and witnessing Gepetto's presence in this dark world left a lasting impression. While the game's linearity might deter some, it didn't diminish my enjoyment. The absence of major optional areas didn't detract from the immersive experience, as I willingly backtracked for side quests and upgrades, immersing myself further into Lies of P's intricate tapestry.

The boss fights stand as a testament to the game's brilliance. From an evil puppet law enforcement officer to a Bane-inspired brute, each encounter is a test of skill and strategy. The shock of a second phase, catching me off-guard, added to the adrenaline-fueled experience. While some found the difficulty spikes frustrating, for me, they intensified the thrill, turning each victory into a triumphant conquest.

The combat mechanics, reminiscent of Bloodborne, satisfied my long-standing desire for a sequel to the acclaimed game. Learning the art of balance between aggression and defense, utilizing the versatile melee and utility weapons, felt like a dance of survival. The skill tree, allowing customization of my character's abilities, added depth to my gameplay, making each decision impactful.

One notable departure from traditional soulslike games was Lies of P's approach to death. Unlike its counterparts, the game spared players from losing their "Ergo," a mechanic I found surprisingly refreshing. This allowed me to focus on the immersive world rather than the fear of loss, enhancing my overall experience.

Technically, Lies of P impressed with its stability. While minor bugs affected some players, my playthrough remained smooth, highlighting the game's emphasis on quality control. The consistent frame rate, a rarity in the genre, contributed to an uninterrupted gaming experience.

A standout feature of Lies of P was its captivating music, enhancing the atmosphere and adding depth to pivotal moments, especially during boss battles. The collectible vinyl records, a delightful addition, offered moments of respite as I immersed myself in the game's haunting melodies.

For multiplayer enthusiasts, it's worth noting that Lies of P lacks multiplayer modes. However, as a solitary player, this absence didn't diminish my enjoyment.

In conclusion, Lies of P might not reinvent the soulslike genre, but its exceptional design, enthralling storyline, impeccable art, and sensational music make it a standout entry. Despite occasional balancing issues, the game's strengths far outweigh its flaws. To fellow soulslike enthusiasts, I wholeheartedly recommend Lies of P. Dive into its dark symphony of puppetry and truth; you might find yourself as enraptured as I was. Give it a chance—it might just become your next gaming obsession.

Thank you for joining me for this in-depth review of Lies of P. If you enjoyed this video, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more content. Stay tuned for more reviews and discussions on your favorite games, tv shows and movies. Until next time, I’m Andrew, signing off. Catch you in the next one!

Video review available here: https://youtu.be/-9WENBzuXoU

It's hard to believe I'm saying this, but Alan Wake 2 is nothing short of a masterpiece. Set 13 years after Alan Wake's mysterious disappearance in the eerie town of Bright Falls, this game plunged me into a slow-burning, psychological horror experience that seamlessly weaved in moments of heart-pounding survivor-horror action. Its brilliance lies not just in its gameplay mechanics but in the meticulously crafted world, the rich narrative, and the mind-bending twists that redefine the horror genre.

The story, spanning approximately 20 hours for me, is a tapestry of complexity and depth. Engaging from the outset, Alan Wake 2 took me on a riveting journey through two distinct realities. The game begins with the player assuming the role of FBI Agent Saga Anderson, investigating a series of ritualistic murders. Saga is a brilliantly written character; her determination and interactions with the world add layers to the narrative. Her partnership with Special Agent Alex Casey provides a compelling backdrop to the unfolding darkness.

Alan Wake 2 immersed me in the mystery of the game and the overarching story from the very beginning. The innovative mechanic of organizing evidence, character profiles, and collectibles on Saga's case board in her mind place not only enhanced the narrative but also kept me engaged and invested at moments where I might have been lost and confused. It's a rare gem in gaming mechanics that seamlessly integrates with the story, making every clue and discovery feel significant.

The game's story is a labyrinth of darkness and disturbance. It refused to hand me easy answers, forcing me to scramble, piece together fragments, and question the very fabric of the game's reality. The interactions with NPCs, the shocking appearances of characters from the broader Alan Wake universe, all contribute to an atmosphere that is consistently eerie and unsettling.

The enigmatic figure of Alan Wake himself plays a pivotal role in the game's deep mystery. His reappearance, washed ashore on Cauldron Lake, rambling about the enigmatic Dark Place, marks just the beginning of the game's mind-bending narrative. Shifting between Alan and Saga is seamless, with both characters pursuing their unique goals. The intertwining of their narratives creates a tapestry of confusion, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. The climax of the story defied my expectations, leaving me in awe of its complexity.

The world of Alan Wake 2 is a visual marvel. From the familiar Bright Falls to the bustling streets of New York, each location is meticulously designed, dripping with atmosphere and attention to detail. Exploration is not just encouraged; it's a necessity. The game offers environmental puzzles that add depth without feeling forced. The mechanic of Alan absorbing energy via a table lamp and redirecting it to create safe zones or new paths is ingenious. Saga, on the other hand, must find orbs that reveal plot elements, allowing players to manipulate scenes and distort reality. This mechanic is both mind-boggling and essential, adding layers to the gameplay experience.

Combat in Alan Wake 2 is a significant leap forward from the original. While some animations may have felt a little awkward, the satisfaction of burning shadows with a flashlight beam and targeting weak points on enemies is unparalleled. The addition of sprinting without constraints is a welcome change, enhancing the fluidity of gameplay. Dodging enemies felt infinitely better, providing me with a genuine sense of control and strategy.

Survival-horror elements, reminiscent of classics like Resident Evil, added tension to the gameplay and my experience. Scarce ammo and batteries forced me to strategize, while enemy variety, including sledgehammer-armed brutes, monsters, and wolves, kept me constantly on edge. Boss fights are thrilling, requiring quick thinking and precise movements to survive.

The game introduces skill trees for both characters, each with unique advantages. Saga utilizes a crossbow, while Alan relies on a flare gun. Upgrading weapons and abilities added a layer of customization, allowing me to tailor my playstyle to my own preferences.

Now, onto performance. Speaking from my experience on the PlayStation 5, the game's performance is nothing short of fantastic. While concessions had to be made compared to high-end PCs, the PS5 version delivers a brilliant experience. In quality mode, targeting 30 FPS, the game generally maintains that frame rate, though occasional drops were noticeable during specific missions when controlling Saga. Performance mode, targeting 60 FPS, admirably hits that figure indoors but occasionally dips outside or during combat. However, these minor hiccups did not detract from the immersive experience.

Before we wrap it up, I quickly want to acknowledge the incredible sound design and music. Both added to the game and made the experience immersive and engaging.

In conclusion, Alan Wake 2 is a tour de force in survival horror, blending intricate storytelling, mind-bending gameplay mechanics, and stunning visuals. Its ability to keep me engaged, questioning reality, and thirsting for answers is a testament to its brilliance. This game stands among the greats in the horror genre, offering an experience that is both terrifying and intellectually stimulating. Remedy has not just created a sequel; they have crafted a masterpiece that will be remembered as a hallmark in gaming history. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of horror, mystery, and pure brilliance.