These competitive contests can offer some tough combat, however, and putting your finely tuned AC to the test and winning is undeniably gratifying. Unfortunately, the bulk of Armored Core V is not as entertaining.

With fifteen years of experience under its belt, you'd think that it would be a safe bet to assume that Armored Core knows what it's doing when it comes to mech based combat. It's certainly a niche genre, but it's one that has gained plenty of fans down through the years thanks to a number of...

Hate, I think, is a strong word when dealing with a video game. It's just a piece of entertainment, after all, but sometimes you come across something that just doesn't gel. Perhaps it's something to do with you, your willingness to enjoy the game at the time of playing, or perhaps the game is so...

When the PS3 version of Armored Core 5 surfaced in Japan earlier this year, it instantly beat Resident Evil: Revelations to the top of the charts - and even gave the 360 a rare top 10 showing at number six.

I will start out by saying I have been with the Amored Core series since Armored Core 2. I feel I must get it out there that, as people that have already bought the game know, this game is a little different.

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+ The online components provide some interesting variety and make up the bulk of the game's value; +/- Plethora of customization options to suit the needs of any combat situation; but figuring out the best loadout for a given situation boils down to a matter of trial and error

+/- Plethora of customization options to suit the needs of any combat situation; but figuring out the best loadout for a given situation boils down to a matter of trial and error

Don't get me wrong, the game is fun and a filled online match is second to none. With some better decisions this game could have been special, instead it's forgettable and will likely be abandoned. Sitting in lobbies is not the definition of a good time.

When I owned a PlayStation 2 many years ago I really enjoyed playing Armoured Core 4 and was ecstatic when I found out that Armoured Core V was hitting the shelves. I was even happier when I was asked to review it and grabbed the opportunity with both hands.

Armored Core is a mecha video game series, developed by From Software ( Dark Souls ), that has been running since the late 1990s. Throughout the years, and sequels, Armored Core has advanced in leaps and bounds, much more than other franchises.

Before causing RPG fans to gnaw their fingers off in frustration at the devilishly difficult Souls series, From Software were busy making games filled with massive, customisable machines of war, amongst other things.

Mechs handle very nicely indeed - good simulation balance; Cracking online features; Deep level of customisation

Awful interface; Mission design could be a lot better; Still not as satisfying as it should be