In the modern age of gaming, pre-orders have become a real point of contention. With offers of in-game bonuses, art books, and other shiny extras, companies are able to sell a game that is not finished in production. For some, this is seen as a way for studios to get away with unfinished games and subpar products without losing too much money. The practice encourages rushed games and results in often unplayable rubbish. (I’m looking at you, Cyberpunk). However, for others, pre-ordering and special editions are ways to support their favorite developers and get their hands on some extra loot, so the extra cash is worth it. But are the Armored Core 6 pre-orders and extra editions valid?
Should you pre-order Armored Core 6?
As a rule, I say withhold your money when it comes to games, no matter who the studio is or your love for the franchise. Pre-order bonuses are usually just a way to make money before a game’s release. The practice also puts an added weight on the studios’ shoulders to produce the game within the promised timeframe. The results are the ‘Crunch’ we all hear so much about these days in which the studio is worked to the bone to meet a deadline, often cutting corners.
Screenshot via Steam
The pre-order of Armored Core 6 comes with the MELANDER C3 G13 Special Customization “TENDERFOOT”. This pack includes a MELANDER C3 parts set and an emblem for your Mech. You will also receive an exclusive AC decal for use in-game. However, the entire MELANDER C3 pack can be earned in-game, so you’re essentially only getting an AC decal. If you really can’t wait to get the game and feel you don’t mind the bad practice of pre-order, then go ahead and opt for an extra decal; otherwise, wait to order Armored Core 6.
Armored Core 6 editions explained
Armored Core 6 comes in five different editions, each offering more than the last. Upgraded editions are a fantastic way to get your hands on exclusive merch for a few extra dollars. Many exclusive editions in the past have come with some amazing bonuses that can be worth quite a bit, depending on the following of the game.
Armored Core 6 Standard Edition
At a solid $60, you can get the base game which is looking to be absolutely worth your money. Bandai Namco knows what they’re doing, and I, for one, am excited for the release.
Armored Core 6 Digital Delux Edition
For $10 more, you can get the game along with an exclusive digital artbook full of the beautiful creations of the franchise.
Armored Core 6 Launch Day Edition
Screenshot by Bandai Namco
If you want something with a little more pizzazz and a few more collectible items, you can opt for the Armored Core 6 Launch Day Edition. For only $10 dollars more, this comes with a poster, 3 art cards, and 3 stickers depicting scenes from Armored Core 6. For $70, you can get your hands on some nice merch.
Collectors Edition
For the avid fans of Armored Core 6, it is possible to get all the stuff from the previous editions, plus some really rather special extras. For $250, you will also get a 45-page hardback artbook, an exclusive steelbook case, the digital soundtrack, 4 pin badges, 45 stickers, and the real selling point: a 19” figurine of an Armored Core. If you’re looking to really show off your appreciation for the game, this is the way to do it. There is no way a solid mech standing on your gaming shelf won’t draw a gaze.
Premium Edition
Screenshot by Bandai Namco
If you are serious about your love for the Armored Core franchise and, in particular, Armored Core 6, you may want to snag this edition. For an impressive $450, you can really show your love for the game. You will receive the core game, an exclusive garage for your figurine, a real-life figurine of an Armored Core, the digital soundtrack, an exclusive SteelBook®, a hardcover artbook, multiple pin badges, stickers, art cards, and a poster for your money.
This is a ton of great merch, and the figurine looks absolutely fantastic and would be great on any shelf. The soundtrack promises to be excellent with Bandai Namco’s past releases, but I’m sure it will be streamable on most platforms soon enough. The extra 200 dollars really only goes toward the Armored Core garage, which doesn’t really make it worth it for me.
