The Armored Core VI soundtrack boxset is out

Originally posted Mar 20, 2024

It's a pretty slick package, but the most important bit of it is Disk 3, which contains entirely new tracks and remixes by Armored Core composer Kota Hoshino. I love VI's OST but I must level with you all, he was clearly holding back if Disk 3 is any indication.

This is the Armored Core manic weirdness I was kind of missing from VI's OST. Disk 3 of the ACVI boxset almost functions as a greatest hits compilation of AC's musical identity through the generations. Just absolutely cacophonous (complimentary). I think VI's atmospheric tracks fit the moodier tone but I miss the chaotic synth vocals that'd accompany some of my most memorable experiences in the IV-V era of Armored Core. 'Blackout' should have been Iguazu's boss theme honestly. Very strong "I cannot believe YOU'RE the last one standing" vibes.

Glad to see some of the classic breakbeat inspired music of pre-IV AC get a little love too. 'Irregulation' has very strong PS1 AC energy, where being a mechanized corporate kill slave didn't preclude you from some good jams.

The version of 'Steel Haze: Rusted Pride' in the game is already about as perfect as it could be, you know I've written plenty on that already. But I'm never going to say no to a new Kota Hoshino remix of my favorite AC track in years.

I would have loved hearing this one in-game. 'Cinders' really reminds me how much I miss what Yuka Kitamura's strings added to the AC soundtracks she worked on. It's an inspired choice for a game series as dystopic as AC, but nothing hits harder when deployed at the right time and place. Wish we could have heard what she'd have brought to VI.

Fun tidbit, apparently the chorus of 'Takes me Anywhere' was sung by the ACVI development team. Very charming. If it were me, I'd have a track this upbeat play during the penultimate Liberator route mission so that 'Steel Haze: Rusted Pride' remains Fires route exclusive.

It's my earnest hope that Kota Hoshino gets to release his limiters for whatever comes next for Armored Core. I don't want him to play it safe for the next AC soundtrack. Let this man cook!

#video_games #mecha #armored_core #soundtrack_thoughts