For years, fans have cherished From Software primarily for its mech-based action games, with the renowned Armored Core series debuting on the original PlayStation over two decades ago. Now, with the exciting news that the original trilogy—Armored Core (1997), Armored Core: Project Phantasma, and Armored Core: Master of Arena—becoming available on PlayStation Plus Classics, it’s an ideal occasion to delve deeper into the fascinating history of this iconic series.
Taking our journey back to its origins, the first Armored Core game was born from a collaboration between From Software and acclaimed mechanical designer Shoji Kawamori. It all began on the early PlayStation platform when they envisioned a game focused on customizable mechs. This concept of modular parts you could attach to a central unit, the Armored Core, was paired with a backstory of a dystopian world ruled by corporations after a cataclysmic event called the Great Destruction, giving rise to the Ravens—a band of mercenaries driven solely by the allure of money. The initial game in the series launched in Japan and North America back in 1997 and later in Europe in 1998. Its standout features were incredible customization options, resource management challenges, and a mission-based structure that encouraged players to explore different narrative outcomes across multiple playthroughs.
In the wake of the first game’s success, Armored Core expanded with two immediate sequels. “Project Phantasma,” which arrived in 1998, served as a narrative prequel and introduced the gripping Arena mode, engaging players in mech duels for the ultimate bragging rights. This was merely a glimpse of what From Software, the developer who rose to fame with the Armored Core name, had to offer. Those who adored the intricate control system and mission-focused gameplay were in for a real treat.
Following closely behind, Armored Core: Master of Arena dropped in 1999, effectively turning the fan-favorite Arena mode into the heart of the game. It closely followed Project Phantasma and allowed players to import previously earned modifications and weaponry, adding another layer of depth to the series’ development. Kawamori’s unique and eye-catching robot designs continued to be a highlight, cementing a distinctive aesthetic that the franchise is now famous for.
When From Software transitioned to the PlayStation 2 era, they did so early with Armored Core 2, which became a launch title for the console in North America in 2000. This sequel took players on a more extensive narrative journey, decades into the future where the action shifted to Mars. The game wasn’t just about impressive visuals; it introduced the Overboost mechanic, which offered incredibly fast movement to the mech pilots while demanding strategic energy management. The game also expanded customization options significantly with new parts for players to tinker with.
Then came the direct follow-up Armored Core 2: Another Age, which returned to a war-torn Earth, presenting over 100 fresh missions and online gameplay capabilities in its Japanese release. The series continued to evolve with Armored Core 3 in 2002, which, while not a direct continuation of AC2’s storyline, kept the post-apocalyptic earth setting and introduced exciting new gameplay elements. The ensuing sequels and expansions, including Silent Line, Nexus, Nine Breaker, and Last Raven, enriched the universe even further.
In anticipation for those eager to relive these classic titles, Sony has announced that Armored Core (1997), Armored Core: Project Phantasma, and Armored Core: Master of Arena will soon be available for PlayStation Plus Classics subscribers, with the release date set for March 18. It’s an ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in the series that has captivated fans for decades.
