In Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon, players face a formidable first boss, known for its challenging aerial battle and deceptive tactics. This guide offers detailed instructions to defeat the HC Helicopter boss, ensuring a smooth progression through the game’s main story.
Understanding the Boss:
The HC Helicopter, the first boss in Armored Core 6, is a thickly armored aircraft that can quickly overwhelm unprepared players. Its attacks include streams of machine gun fire, wide area-of-effect missiles, and aggressive maneuvers.
Strategies to Defeat the Boss:
- Initial Assault: As the helicopter enters the arena, utilize Assault Boost to melee attack the mech. This initial assault is crucial for gaining an advantage.
- Close Combat: Stay close to the mech, as the helicopter is more vulnerable to your blade than to rockets or machine gun pellets. Avoid fighting from afar.
- Energy Recovery: Maintain proximity to the boss while recovering energy. This tactic minimizes the risk of rocket attacks.
- Avoiding Rockets: Rockets are the primary damage dealer in this fight. Dodge them by ascending or executing several dodges.
- Melee and Ranged Balance: Use melee attacks primarily, supplemented by rocket and machine gun fire to keep up the boss’s stagger bar.
- Staggering the Boss: Repeatedly Assault Boost and melee the boss to eventually stagger it, disabling one of its weapons systems.
- Utilizing the Arena: Use buildings and structures for cover and evasion. This tactic helps avoid machine gun fire and missiles.
- Final Assault: Maintain pressure with bullets and missiles, and capitalize on energy blade melees. Be aggressive and get up close with the boss.
Armored Core 6 is available on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, PS5, and PS4, and is highly recommended as one of the best games of 2023.