The game will be more about tactics and using the geography of level rather than high-speed finger work. This harks back more to the original PSone games, especially the first, as many levels were set within city type environments and were more tactical as a consequence. A notable difference will be smaller mecha (5 meter tall, as opposed to the 10 meter mecha from the previous releases), which will allow more varied, "three dimensional" stages. A greater emphasis on stealth will be the direct result in the size change, allowing the mecha to maneuver between alleyways, and buildings for cover, and stealth tactics. Due to the size change of the mecha, levels will be much bigger and more detailed. Another element is that you won’t just view your AC from behind, but will have more camera control. The developers are taking a more realistic approach. The narrative will mirror this too, as the characterisation won’t be simply friend or foe but instead more grounded and realistic.
The game’s Japanese release is currently scheduled for sometime in early 2011, for both PS3 and 360. No publisher for the US release has been announced as of yet. Japanese buyers will receive pre-order bonus with Last Raven Portable that includes an Art Book and a code for use in Armored Core 5.
* Fromsoftware looks to be steppin its game up finally. The Screens look better than fantastic.
