The Armored Core video game franchise, developed by FromSoftware, has become a cornerstone in the mecha-action genre since its debut in 1997. Known for its deep customization options and intense mechanized combat, the series allows players to pilot highly customizable “Armored Cores” (ACs), versatile mecha tailored to suit various combat scenarios. Each entry in the franchise emphasizes player choice, enabling the creation of unique builds through the combination of parts, weapons, and performance-enhancing modifications. The games are renowned for their challenging gameplay, strategic depth, and a dystopian narrative exploring themes of corporate control and human ambition.
The enduring popularity of Armored Core has extended beyond the digital realm, inspiring a series of plastic model kits developed by Kotobukiya. These kits offer fans an opportunity to bring their favorite AC designs to life in a tangible form. Kotobukiya, a Japanese company celebrated for its high-quality model kits, has meticulously recreated numerous mecha from the Armored Core series, capturing the intricate details and aesthetics that define the franchise. These kits often include highly articulated joints, allowing for dynamic poses that reflect the mechs’ agility and combat readiness in the games.
The customization ethos of the video game is echoed in Kotobukiya’s model kits, as builders can mix and match parts, paint their models, and apply decals to create a truly personalized AC. Some kits even feature parts from iconic mechs like the Nineball or White Glint, catering to long-time fans of the series. The model kits have become collector’s items, bridging the gap between the virtual world of Armored Core and the real-life creativity of its passionate community. Through these collaborations, the Armored Core franchise has solidified its legacy as a cultural icon in both gaming and mecha modeling.