In a surprising turn of events,FromSoftware’s next release won’t be a Soulslike but rather a sequel to theArmored Corefranchise. Making itsdebut in 1997 with the firstArmored Core, the franchise is known for its fast-paced gameplay and highly customizable mechs. Prior to the announcement ofArmored Core 6: Fires Of Rubicon, FromSoftware’s last foray intoArmored Corewas 2013’sArmored Core: Verdict Dayon the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.
Those who know FromSoftware for its difficult RPGS likeBloodborneandElden Ringwill understandably be confused with this shift in titles.Armored Core’s roots are heavily based on mecha anime. Most of the gameplay features third-person shooter mechanics – the likes of which are the weaker point of Soulslike games. But one recurring weapon in particular from the game studio’s past fits perfectly within the context ofArmored Core 6: Fires Of Rubicon.
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The Moonlight Greatsword is a Mainstay of FromSoftware’s Games
Originally appearing as the Moonlight Sword inthe 1994 FromSoftware gameKing’s Field, this sword has been a mainstay in all of the game studio’s titles save forSekiro: Shadows Die Twice.Dark Soulsplayers will know it as the sword obtained by cutting the tail of Seath The Scaleless. The weapon’s latest appearance inElden Ringhas it taking on the form of a unique weapon skill for the Dark Moon Greatsword.
Whichever FromSoftware video game it may be in,the Moonlight Greatswordis known for its iconic light blue color. While it does possess physical attack capabilities, the true strength of the weapon lies in its ability to project beams of light or magic at foes. Players intent on using the Moonlight Greatsword’s special ability must leave themselves momentarily vulnerable, but provided they have the skill to wield it, the weapon can deliver ranged damage from a respectable distance.
Armored Core Is No Stranger To Energy Weapons
In theArmored Corefranchise, MOONLIGHT is a laser blade weapon that can be affixed to anArmored Core mech. Compared to the other laser blades, MOONLIGHT generally has the highest power and blade length in the category and thus requires players to either complete a series of tasks or purchase it from the in-game shop. In addition to its long blade and high damage output, the MOONLIGHT laser blade also projects a distinct blue wave of energy that can hit foes from afar.
Seeing as pastArmored Coregames have implemented the MOONLIGHT, there is a high chance the laser blade will be making a return inArmored Core 6: Fires Of Rubicon.Taking cues fromArmored Core 4, the blade should have the ability to be affixed to either the left or right arm of an Armored Core. Since MOONLIGHT is usually the heaviest laser blade available, players have to be mindful of their Armored Core setup to take advantage of its strengths and make up for its shortcomings. Pairing it with a long-range weapon like a laser rifle is ideal for creating a well-balanced build.
Using the experience gained from itsSoulslike games, FromSoftware can further improve on the MOONLIGHT. Balancing the weapon’s power would make it strong while still providing its wielders with a challenge when it comes to PvE and PvP. MOONLIGHT’s various attacks would also benefit from FromSoftware’s tight hitbox mechanics, which have been a signature element in all the studio’s recent works. Lastly, there should be a wide variety of builds that allow for the MOONLIGHT’s implementation, as theArmored Corefranchise is all about creating customized mechs for multiple situations. With all these elements in place, the Moonlight Greatsword will be just as strong and versatile as it has been in past games.
Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubiconwill be released on July 22, 2025 for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
