ARMORED CORE: LAST RAVEN
FAQ/WALKTHROUGH
VERSION 2.10
By Angelo Pineda(rpger77@yahoo.ca)
VERSION HISTORY
19-7-2006 - Additional information has been added to walkthrough, also made
minor corrections to several missions.
24-6-2006 - North American changes made, walkthrough changes made, VR Arena
has been added.
23-3-2006 - Made some minor corrections.
29-12-2005 - Added S-rank strategies for all missions, enemy bestiary, VR
AC Test section, and revised the mission strategies.
24-9-2005 - Added ranking system and some tips on getting S-rank for new
parts. Also made tweaks to the mission layout.
25-8-2005 - Completed walkthrough of all missions and new parts. Might add
more on parts, story Ravens, the VR Arena, and some other material.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION
2. BASICS
- AC Basics
- Part Breaking
- FAQ
- Ranking System
3. WALKTHROUGH
3a. Pulverizer route #1
3b. Jack-O route
3c. Evangel route
3d. Leviathan route
3e. Pulverizer route #2
3f. Zinaida route
3g. Remaining missions
4. AC MAKING
4a. AC building basics
4b. New parts
4c. VR AC Test
5. ENEMY BESTIARY
5a. Enemies
5b. Bosses
6. VR ARENA
7. CREDITS
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1. INTRODUCTION
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Armored Core: Last Raven is the new AC game for the PS2. Last Raven is a
continuation of Nexus, after the release of the unknown weapons. The three
remaining corporations Mirage, Crest, and Kisaragi have merged into one called
the Alliance. Opposed to the Alliance is a Raven faction known as Vertex,
headed by past Raven's Ark leader Jack-O. Not satisfied with the Alliance's
actions, Jack-O promises to wage war in 24 hours. So begins what is the last
AC game for PS2. Some of the cast:
Evangel - Leader of Alliance Tactical Unit. In Nexus, he was a rising star
just to get booted out of Raven's Ark after it was found that he had a
direct contract with Crest.
Jack-O - Leader of Vertex. In Nexus, he took over Raven's Ark after it was
revealed that it's leaders were corrupt.
Zinaida - A talented Raven that works for neither side. Her motives are
unknown, though it is known that she helps Vertex time from time.
The remainder of the faq talks about basic AC material and the walkthrough
of course. Controls and material such as Versus mode will NOT be covered.
Refer back to the manual for more details.
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2. BASICS
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This section will talk briefly about basic AC gameplay.
As said earlier, controls will not be discussed as the vast majority of AC
buyers are already aware of the 2 control setups. But, for those who have
not decided on a control type..
TYPE A(NEW)
Pros:
- More like recent first-person shooter controls, easier to get into if you
play those games
- Easier to drop weapons and fire left and right arm weapons without hurting
your fingers
Cons:
- Feels a bit uncomfortable and hard to get used to
- Everyone else prefers TYPE B
TYPE B(OLD)
Pros:
- Everyone is very familiar with these controls
- Fairly easy to get used to
Cons:
- Hard to drop weapons
- It might be nice to try something new after 2-3 years of using this setup
*********
AC BASICS
*********
For those who have played AC, no need to explain. For newcomers, there is a
lot to learn about AC gameplay. Tips..
- Test your skills in the VR AC Test section first.
- Once you feel confident with your skills, try the enemies. It is advised
to take the AC Test portion once comfortable with the other Tests. The VR
AC is difficult, but is an idea of how AC fights work in both Arena or Mission
play.
- Whenever you have a new design to test, the VR AC Test is the place to go.
- Tuning is very useful to enhancing your AC's performance. Do not fear if
you need to pay or if you mess up the upgrades. There is no fee to pay and
you can un-tune the upgrades if you messed up.
- Optional parts also enhance combat effectiveness. Buy them if you can
afford them.
- Most important rule in any AC game: KEEP MOVING! Even if you're just
walking, at least you can dodge a few attacks. Standing still is an easy way
to get pegged by shots from the enemy and getting killed.
- Pay attention to the energy gauge(big vertical line on your left). The red
indicates that you are almost out of energy. If the gauge depletes, the AC
will have to recharge energy until it is back to full. Energy weapons cannot
be used until then.
- Pay attention to the map. Allies are indicated by green dots. Enemies are
indicated by certain color based on elevation. If on equal ground, red. If
on higher ground, blue. If on lower ground, yellow. The yellow line is the
warning line to tell you that you are almost of out bounds. The red line is
that boundary; pass it and you fail a mission or arena battle.
- Pay close attention to the heat gauge(below AP count). As you take hits,
boost, Overboost, the heat builds up. If the heat reaches the redzone, a
warning buzzer will tell you that your AC is close to overheating. During
this stage, the energy gauge will deplete. If the heat exceeds the redzone,
AP loss happens.
- On the cockpit options, turn on all the optional panels. This will make
missions easier.
- NEVER stick with the same setup for missions. Missions vary and tend to
favor certain AC setups over others. Pay attention to the mission briefings
and decide from the information what to equip. Do note that any time an AC
is shown on the briefings, you should prepare carefully. Also, if you have
a core with the Hangar function, do have a spare weapon in the event you
run out of ammo.
- If a weapon is out of ammo, drop it ASAP. This decreases overall weight and
drain on the AC.
- When destroying enemies, DO NOT stand near them if you are. The explosion
will cause splash damage to any around it. This goes for destroying random
objects and containers as well.
*************
PART BREAKING
*************
Part breaking is a new feature in the AC series. Just like weapon breaking in
Silent Line, parts will break under enough damage. There are 2 stages of
part damage:
1st degree - part's functionality(cooling, accuracy, turning speed) decreases
and is noticeable by the yellow sparks. The damage indicator for this is when
the specific part blinks yellow.
2nd degree - part is destroyed and loses certain functions for the remainder
of the mission or arena battle. Legs are not destroyed though. The damage
indicator for this is when the specific part blinks red.
Special functions decreased effectiveness/lost for parts:
HEAD - all functions(ECM, radar, auto-map) and orbit weapons are unusable
CORE - EO/OB/core AMS and AC destroyed
ARMS - weapon(Hangar included) lost, arm accuracy, blade tracking
LEGS - cooling, turning, jump ability, stability
You should not worry too much about part destruction as it rarely occurs.
However, if a part breaks in a mission, you must re-buy the part again. If it
is broken during Arena play, that part is not broken. Losing parts also can
affect the speed performance of the AC. Compensation is given in the form of
a speed increase for head and arm parts that are destroyed. The increase is
proportional to the weight of the part and any weapons assigned to the arms.
In the case of arms, only half of the part's weight is negated if one arm is
broken. Lastly, destruction of parts also lowers overall shell and energy
defense. The defense negation is not great fortunately but will make your
AC easier to destroy.
One last note: part breaking is HIT specific. It means where you hit the AC
will determine which parts get damaged and eventually break. There are two
main types of part damage: area and direct. Area damage can simply be said as
being able to inflict damage on multiple parts. This type of damage is common
and will generally take longer to destroy parts. This is due to the fact that
a weapon projectile's damage is spread out through the parts hit. 1st and 2nd
degree destruction occurs at the 5000 and 2000 AP ranges respectively.
Direct damage is basically an attack that directly damages a part and nothing
else. This is uncommon and requires some strategy to do(going against enemy
AC or a human opponent's AC). Through this method, parts breaker much faster
than area damage. Using direct damage, a part reaches 2nd degree destruction
as soon as the 6000 AP range. A second part can be broken through this means
at the 3000 AP range. Any more parts destroyed are considered lucky shots.
This is presuming the AC has 8000 AP and is fairly well-armored.
***
FAQ
***
Q: Why can't I boost or fire energy weapons?
A: Look at the energy gauge(vertical line to the left). If it is empty, it has
to recharge before boosting or using energy weapons. The redzone usually has a
buzzer to warn that the AC is almost out of energy.
Q: Why can't I fire my grenade launcher on the move like some Ravens do?
A: The Ravens are equipped with the OP-I part, giving them special abilities.
Don't bother trying to find this part; it's exclusive to the enemy.
Q: My part broke and I can't use it any more! What do I do to get it back?
A: Re-buy it in the Garage section. Any tuning that was done before are
erased so it must be done again.
Q: I can't beat a certain Raven! Everytime I change my setup, it seems to be
able to counter it! How is this possible?
A: The AIs are designed to counter how the AC is setup and the weapons that
are on the AC. From example, a Raven with a blade will avoid using it against
a fast, agile AC. However, against a heavyweight AC with no Overboost core,
that Raven will be more inclined to stay within blade range and use it much
more often. Against a missile-heavy AC, the Raven will be more inclined to
use cover and trick the missiles into hitting the ground.
**************
RANKING SYSTEM
**************
Simply said, missions are graded based on performance. Most AC veterans who
have played the past ACs will be aware of this. Those who are not, do not
worry. The categories for grading are:
Time - how fast the mission was beaten.
Accuracy - accuracy of weapons based on shots fired and shots landed.
Costs - ammo cost and AC repairs.
AP Remaining - how much damage did the AC take.
Part Break - was a part broken?
Basically, it's self explanatory. S is the highest rank attainable and E is
the lowest rank. Higher ranks are acheived with fast mission times, high
accuracy ratings, low costs, small amount of damage received, and no parts
were broken. In certain missions, there are special factors that MUST be met
in order to get S-rank. It varies per mission so pay close attention to the
mission briefings.
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3. WALKTHROUGH
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For AC vets: you all know what to do so no need to explain. For newcomers:
practice controlling the AC in the VR AC Test first. You should try out the
Arena, but it will be difficult without mastering the controls first. If you
have saved Nexus or Ninebreaker data, convert it. If you don't, you have a
total of 300,000 credits to spend. Here is a good AC to start with:
Head - YH70S2(tune cooling to max)
Core - C69U(tune cooling to max)
Arms - A72F(tune cooling to max)
Legs - DINGO(tune cooling to max)
Booster - B72T(tune booster heat to max)
FCS - MUREX
Generator - LOTUS(tune condenser capacity to max)
Radiator - R76(tune normal cooling to max)
As for weapons, switch the rifle to WR73R2 and blade to ELF. Keep the back
weapons. This should do for the first few missions. To gain more cash, fight
in the Arena.
The game is divided into 6 paths, each leading to a different final boss and
ending. All missions will not be covered by all 6 paths so those missions will
be covered last.
You can go any path at the start but I recommend Pulverizer #1 route first.
The missions aren't too difficult and the AC missions only show up during
the end. I advise not to go to Pulverizer #2 or Zinaida route unless you
have beaten one path and have mastered controlling your AC. These 2 paths are
full of ACs and tough enemies to boot.
***READ BELOW BEFORE PLAYING****
If by any chance you fail a mission, you can either retry or restart the
game. I suggest retrying the mission rather than restart the game. Difficulty
of a mission will be rated by *s out of 10. * means a walk in the park, 5 *s
is a mission of average difficulty, 7 *s is a difficult mission, and 10 *s
well.. good luck staying alive!
The AI for enemy ACs will change tactics based on current AC setup. Do not
be surprised if an AC that rarely uses their laser blade does so if you
changed your AC setup. Try your best to deal with this problem. If you are
having problems beating a certain AC, stick with a mid-weight biped. The AI
usually doesn't do anything out of the ordinary.
All story Ravens are equipped with OP-I. This part from AC3 give the AC a
boatload of special abilities such as firing back cannons without any sort
of restriction. This part CANNOT be obtained and is exclusive to the enemy
Ravens alone.
For missions that are repeated on certain paths, I will refer to the first
path it is encountered. Please check that path for mission details. Note
that EVERY mission in this FAQ presumes you have completed additional
requirements, such as additional missions and killing all optional
enemies. If you end up with a different mission, you forgot to meet those
requirements.
MISSION DEFINITIONS
Situation - area mission takes place.
Client - who you work for.
Enemy - known enemy for mission.(displays enemy ID)
Friend - known ally for mission.(displays ally ID)
Target - intended target for destruction to complete mission.
Def Target - intended target to defend to complete mission.
Attention - special details about the mission area.
Warning - unknown dangers about the mission area.
Profile - the profile of known Raven in mission.
Estimation of AC - known AC in mission. AC stats/picture are displayed.
One last term to note:
DAE means Destroy All Enemies. Missions that say these mean you have to kill
every enemy to beat the mission.
MISSION WALKTHROUGH 101
The following shows how mission walkthroughs are displayed. It's pretty
self-explanatory, but it must be done.
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(Mission name)
Requester - the client who requested the mission.
Operation Area - area the mission takes place.
Objective - objective that must be met to complete the mission.
Reward - commission received(in credits) for the successful mission.
Difficulty - difficulty of the mission rated from 1-10 *'s.
Recommended setup - setup recommended to complete the mission.
Enemies - enemies encountered throughout the mission.
Strategy - the "game plan" for beating the mission.
Secret part - any secret parts found or rewarded in the mission.
S-RANK - the "game plan" for beating the mission with a rank of S.
Difficulty - the difficulty of getting the rank of S.
****READ ABOVE BEFORE PLAYING****
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3a. PULVERIZER ROUTE #1
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Missions:
Eliminate Intruders
Remove Bridge Defenders
Pursue Withdrawing MT
Protect The Cargo
Destroy AC Vigilance
Halt Energy Production
Prevent Reactor Meltdown
Track Down Evangel
Eliminate Sorcerer
Investigate Recent Attack
Destroy AC Sight Hawk
Underground Investigation
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Eliminate Intruders
Requester: Vertex
Operation Area: Old Nire Industrial Area
Objective: Eliminate the intruders.
Reward: 60,000c
Difficulty: *
Recommended setup: starter AC
Enemies: MT08-OSTRICH, CR-MT85M
Strategy:
Just a simple DAE. Take down the escaping OSTRICHs and then destroy the
reinforcement 85M MTs. The 85 MTs are the only ones that will attack, but the
damage is weak. A pulse rifle and machine gun can't do much damage to your
armored AC.
Secret part: RASETSU. It's on the second level of the structure behind the
starting point. Go all the way up and you'll see it.
S-RANK
Difficulty: *
Kill all the MTs and you got yourself an S.
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Remove Bridge Defenders
Requester: Evangel
Operation Area: Ruga Tunnel
Objective: Eliminate the enemy defenders.
Reward: 60,000c
Difficulty: *
Recommended setup: starter AC, sniper rifle
Enemies: CR-MT83RS, MT08H-OSTRICH
Strategy:
Another easy one. You don't even need to worry about the bridge anchors. Kill
the RS MTs, then finish off the OSTRICHs. If you haven't been practicing it,
this mission tests out your ability to boost in the air to reach a different
part of the area. Do a hop, then hold down the boost button. Make sure you
have enough energy or you might fall down...
S-RANK
Difficulty: **
The only hard part, if you are new to AC, is traversing from one bridge to
the next. Aside from that, this mission is a joke.
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Pursue Withdrawing MT
Requester: Alliance Tactical Unit
Operation Area: Walter Material Storage Site
Objective: Pursue the withdrawing MT.
Reward: 80,000c
Difficulty: **
Recommended setup: starter AC, a strong blade
Enemies: CR-MT06SB, RAT, TAP-LT6, MT11-STARLING(defense target)
Strategy:
This is an escort mission: protect the target until it reaches the intended
destination. The first MT you see is the target. DO NOT shoot the MT, even
though you can lock onto it. The RATs are easy to dispatch, but avoid the
MT06SBs. These heavy MTs are equipped with a heavy shield that greatly drops
attack damage dealted to it. The LT6's are simple security guns; shoot if
you wish.
S-RANK
Difficulty: ***
Don't shoot the target MT but shoot everyone else. And blade the MT06SBs once
their shields open.
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Protect The Cargo
Requester: Alliance Headquarters
Operation Area: Garav Desert
Objective: Secure crash site and protect cargo.
Reward: 92,000c
Difficulty: **
Recommended setup: long range FCS, sniper rifle
Enemies: CRANWELL, CR-AH79
Strategy:
Easy mission. Just don't walk into a mine. Destroy all CRANWELL transports to
finish the mission. The CR-AH79s are no problem with a sniper rifle. Towards
the end, four CRANWELLs appear from four directions. Shoot down one ASAP,
then move in a circular way to shoot down the other three.
Secret part: CR-E82SS2. Surrounded in the Eastern area of explosives.
CR-WBW98LX. Destroy the ruined helicopter part behind your starting point.
The telltale sign is the curved helicopter blades.
S-RANK
Difficulty: *
There is a near-100% chance of you getting this on your first try.
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Destroy AC Vigilance
Requester: Alliance Headquarters
Operation Area: Garav Desert
Objective: Destroy AC Vigilance.
Reward: 68,000c
Difficulty: ******
Recommended setup:
Head - WASP2(tune cooling to max)
Core - GAEA(tune cooling to max)
Arms - 72F(tune cooling to max)
Legs - DINGO(tune cooling to max)
Booster - VULTURE(tune booster heat to max)
FCS - MUREX
Generator - G91(tune energy output to max)
Radiator - R76(tune normal cooling to max)
Inside - none
Extension - RM
Back L - none
Back R - KINNARA
L - GAST
R - SHADE
Optionals: AMINO, ES, EC, MARISHI, LA
Enemies: Vigilance, AEW360R(friends)
Strategy:
This should be your first AC fight if you followed the faq in order. And
for Nexus players, it's the first of the Nexus returnees, Triturate.
Vigilance AC setup:
Head - BEETLE
Core - U3
Arms - LEO
Legs - LIZARD
Booster - VULTURE2
FCS - KOKUH
Generator - KUJAKU
Radiator - ANANDA
Inside - MEDUSA
Extension - JIREN
Back L - RA3
Back R - LGL
L - none
R - none
Special computer type data:
The unit is equipped with weapon arms. Long-range combat maneuvers are
recommended.
Quotes:
Triturate's AP at 50%: I can't believe you're this good!
Your AP at 50%: You need more practice!
The danger in this fight is the LEO laser cannon arms. They can burn your AC
if you did not tune your equipment, which you should. The AEW360Rs will help
out in this battle as long as Triturate doesn't shoot at them. Distract
Triturate with the KINNARA and use the EOs and GAST to attack. If you did
not practice in the Arena, which you should, you will find this a tough
battle. Back boost a lot and bunny hop to dodge the blasts. Just stay in
the offensive, cover your support if you can, and the battle will be over.
If you see orange shots with circles around them, that is the LGL linear
gun. These will stun your AC good and are quite accurate up close.
Secret part: WL-MOONLIGHT. Beat Vigilance.
S-RANK
Difficulty: *****
Try to keep at least one AEW360R alive and avoiding losing too much AP from
Triturate's lasers. Standard AC tactics are good enough to beat this Nexus
returnee.
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Halt Energy Production
Requester: Alliance Tactical Unit
Operation Area: Seil Hydroelectric Plant
Objective: Destroy all energy production equipment.
Reward: 113,000c
Difficulty: ***
Recommended setup: head with auto-map function, SHADE, KINNARA, LB2
performance
Enemies: RAT, MT08M-OSTRICH, foot soldiers
Strategy:
Just find all the targets and destroy them. The facility is large so a head
with the auto-map function will help. Destroy only enemies in the way. Once
a target has been found, use the laser blade to destroy it. After all targets
have been destroyed, head to the escape point if you wish to start the extra
mission.
******************
ADDITIONAL MISSION
******************
Requester: Alliance Tactical Unit
Operation Area: Sinus Airstrip
Objective: Clear the airstrip of enemy interference.
Difficulty: ****
Recommended setup: good ECM, SHADE, KINNARA
Enemies: MT09ROE-OWL, SSGB03-WALNUT
Strategy:
Your targetting and radar are jammed through ECM. If you have good ECM
performance(radar adds more), you might be able to lock-on a target. If not,
destroy all targets and the OWLs. The OWL MTs are equipped with ECMs so
destroying them will allow for targetting and radar to function. Work fast
and use the KINNARA to destroy the WALNUTs.
S-RANK
Difficulty: *****
You must take the additional mission in order to get an S. The extra mission
is a bit difficult due to ECM measures and you need to act quickly before the
transport is within range.
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Prevent Reactor Meltdown
Requester: Vertex
Operation Area: Duerr Energy Plant
Objective: Eliminate the intruders.
Reward: 108,000c
Difficulty: ****
Recommended setup:
Head - CICADA2(tune cooling to max)
Core - U2(tune cooling to max)
Arms - 72F(tune cooling to max)
Legs - 80S2(tune cooling to max)
Booster - VULTURE(tune booster heat to max)
FCS - VOLUTE
Generator - FUDOH(tune energy output to max)
Radiator - ANANDA(tune normal cooling to max)
Inside - none
Extension - SAISUI
Back L - 69RO
Back R - none
L - GAST
R - SHADE
Optionals: ES, EC, MARISHI
Enemies: U05-FLEA, AMIDA, AMIDA(evolved)
Strategy:
Destroy all enemies and advance further within the plant quickly. The place
will quickly heat up then you will have to destroy 4 targets to cool it down.
Do not charge energy and use the SAISUI to prevent that. Mop up the remaining
AMIDAs in the last room.
Secret part: KONGOH. Destroy the first 2 beaker targets then fly up to the
top room in the shaft. It is in the door. Note: Break all the beakers
first before grabbing the part. This lowers AP loss and quicker time to get
the plant back to normal temperatures.
S-RANK
Difficulty: ****
It is crucial to quickly dispatch the AMIDAs so you can break all the beakers
and lower the temperature. Thus, ultimately saving AP and lowering costs. The
AMIDAs and their pulse blasts can be annoying so destroy them ASAP.
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Track Down Evangel
Requester: Alliance Headquarters
Operation Area: Hordess Mining Site
Objective: Destroy AC Oracle.
Reward: 114,000c
Difficulty: **
Recommended setup: SHADE, MOONLIGHT
Enemies: Vehicles(CR-WA69BZ, CR-WR81B2), AEW360R, foot soldiers
Strategy:
A DAE mission. Have fun and run over the foot soldiers to get rid of them.
They're quite annoying and accurate, but not very damaging.(who expects
soldiers to dent a 50-foot mech?) The rest can be dispatched with the
MOONLIGHT or SHADE easily. And you've probably guessed it.. Evangel is not
hiding here.
Secret part: CR-I92FMM2. On the top of cliff with last set of enemies.
S-RANK
Difficulty: **
Should get it the first time through.
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Eliminate Sorcerer
Requester: Jack-O
Operation Area: Versurs Highland
Objective: Destroy AC Banshee.
Reward: 0c
Difficulty: *****
Recommended setup:
Head - QUEEN(tune cooling to max)
Core - 89E(tune cooling to max)
Arms - 72F(tune aiming accuracy to max)
Legs - DINGO(tune cooling to max)
Booster - VULTURE(tune booster heat to max)
FCS - VOLUTE2
Generator - MAGNOLIA(tune condenser capacity to max)
Radiator - ANANDA(tune normal cooling to max)
Inside - none
Extension - RM2
Back L - none
Back R - KINNARA
L - GAST
R - SHADE
Optionals: AMINO, ES, SS, EC, MARISHI, LA
Enemies: Banshee
Strategy:
Banshee AC setup:
Head - SPIDER
Core - 89E
Arms - 69MG
Legs - LYNX2
Booster - VULTURE
FCS - KOKUH
Generator - G91
Radiator - R92
Inside - R2
Extension - IWATO
Back L - 72M2
Back R - CACUS
L - none
R - none
Special computer type data:
The unit is equipped with machine gun weapon arms. Close-range combat is to be
avoided.
Quotes:
Sorcerer's AP at 50%: It's not over yet!
Your AP at 50%: Is that the best you can do?
The big threat is the 69M machine gun arms. Range-wise, they suck and are best
at close range. The CACUS triple rockets and R2 rockets shouldn't even hit you
while the 72M2 missiles can be easily countered with missile defense. EOs from
the 89E are fairly damaging but avoidable. Play a range game against Sorcerer
and avoid getting close. Make Sorcerer eat the KINNARAs to get the job done
fast. Enjoy your new parts!
Secret parts. YWH13M-NIX(right). Beat the mission. CR-WA91MSM. Beat Banshee.
WR24L-SHADE2. On the northwest edge of the lake. From the starting position,
back boost a bit and you should see it.
S-RANK
Difficulty: ***
Sorcerer is a pushover and poses no threat aside from the 69M machine guns.
You should be able to S-rank the mission your first time through.
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Investigate Recent Attack
Requester: Alliance Tactical Unit
Operation Area: Tartrus Headquarters
Objective: Investigate the recent attack.
Reward: 156,000c
Difficulty: *****
Recommended setup: dual KINNARA, SHADE, EO core
Enemies: Unknown
Strategy:
Boss: Quad-leg Pulverizer
Special computer type data:
Powerful energy signature detected. Cannot identify.
Quotes:
Pulverizer's AP at 50%: It's weakening. Keep it up.
Pulverizer's AP at 25%: You're almost there. Don't give up!
Your AP at 50%: Watch your AP!
Your AP at 10%: Back off!
If you are following the faq in order, this will be the first Pulverizer
unit you fight. These special units have the same characteristics: has two
MOONLIGHT blade arms that deal a lot of damage and the ability to fire dual
energy weapons of varying strength. Each unit differs though: the quad unit
fires dual plasma cannons in addition to the regular attacks. The area you
fight in is fairly big and offers some hiding spots for the dual plasmas of
the unit. These units generally are tough, but they all suffer from one huge
flaw: missile defense. In particular, micro missiles eat their AP rapidly
and they die after enough launches from those. Do note that it can dodge the
missiles well, so take care when you shoot.
Secret part: WH08RS-FENRIR(left). S-rank the mission. It's not too hard
to attain an S but finish the battle quickly and avoid wasting ammo.
S-RANK
Difficulty: *****
See Secret part strategy.
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Destroy AC Sight Hawk
Requester: Alliance Tactical Unit
Operation Area: Versurs Highland
Objective: Destroy AC Sight Hawk.
Reward: 98,000c
Difficulty: *******
Recommended setup:
Head - QUEEN(tune cooling to max)
Core - 89E(tune cooling to max)
Arms - 72F(tune aiming accuracy to max)
Legs - COUGAR2(tune cooling to max)
Booster - TP(tune booster heat to max)
FCS - VOLUTE2
Generator - MAGNOLIA(tune condenser capacity to max)
Radiator - ANANDA(tune normal cooling to max)
Inside - none
Extension - none
Back L - none
Back R - none
L - GAST
R - SHADE
Optionals: AMINO, SS, EC, MARISHI, GOLGI, HISTON
Enemies: Sight Hawk
Strategy:
Sight Hawk AC setup:
Head - SEE
Core - UL
Arms - XS
Legs - 99XS
Booster - VULTURE2
FCS - VOLUTE2
Generator - G91
Radiator - ANANDA
Inside - none
Extension - none
Back L - KINNARA
Back R - SPHINX
L - DRAGON
R - M2
Special computer type data:
The unit is equipped with a laser rifle. Close-range combat is not advised.
Quotes:
Crow's AP at 50%: You're not bad...
Your AP at 50%: You need practice!
Your AP at 10%: You're pathetic...
Ah, another old friend from Nexus! Crow and his Sight Hawk! Well, this new
Sight Hawk has been modified since the Nexus days. Like in Nexus, Crow is
good at aerial combat. As an addition, you have to deal with flying
Kamikaze MTs all over the place! Fortunately, Crow is fragile and weak so
it shouldn't take long to win. Just stay afar and keep boosting to dodge
his attacks and the MTs. Crow's micro missiles are easy to notice since
they fire in swarms. Just dance around them to dodge. The DRAGON is a
weak laser rifle but the M2 machine gun is strong. With this in mind,
kill Crow before he or the kamikaze MTs kill you. While the kamikaze MTs are
focused on crashing into your position, they do try to hit Crow as well. If
you prefer to use other weapons, go for a bazooka. It'll stun Crow long
enough that a few kamikaze MTs will crash into him.
Secret part: CR-H9SEE. Beat Sight Hawk.
S-RANK
Difficulty: ********
A toughie to S-rank. Mainly due to the kamikaze MTs trying to crash into you
all over the place. The setup above can do the trick, but switch the SHADE
with RA2 and have the 79L+ optional part equipped. When the mission starts,
pop up the EOs and start boosting while shooting at Crow. Pay attention to
your position relative to the kamikaze MTs so you know where to move next.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Underground Investigation
Requester: Alliance Tactical Unit
Operation Area: Underneath Circ-City
Objective: Investigate the area beneath Circ-City.
Reward: 180,000c
Difficulty: *******
Recommended setup:
Head - QUEEN(tune cooling to max)
Core - E2(tune cooling to max)
Arms - XS(tune aiming accuracy to max)
Legs - DINGO2(tune cooling to max)
Booster - TP(tune booster heat to max)
FCS - MONJU
Generator - G91(tune energy output to max)
Radiator - ANANDA(tune normal cooling to max)
Inside - none
Extension - RM2
Back L - none
Back R - KINNARA
L - none
R - SHADE2
Optionals: ES, SS, EC, MARISHI, LA, 79L+
Enemies: Unknown
Strategy:
Hmm.. no enemies here. Whoops, spoke to soon. Remember the Kamikaze MTs from
the last mission? They're here again to kill you. Boost hop like a madman to
shake off the MTs. They will go kamikaze on you for about a minute so DO NOT
EVER STAND STILL! If even one gets to you, expect another 3-4 to hit you as
well. Not only will you take lots of damage but you'll overheat as well.
Keep dodging until a door opens(Jack-O will start talking). Get in that door
ASAP. You'll see a cutscene. After the cutscene, go to the broken shaft.
Another cutscene kicks in at the start of the second half. Hope you have at
least 2000 AP left...
Final Boss: Super Bipedal Pulverizer
Special computer type data:
Powerful energy signature detected. Cannot identify.
Quotes:
SBP after hit once: ...
SBP's AP at 50%: Interesting...
SBP's AP at 25%: You'll regret this...
Your AP at 50%: ...
Your AP at 25%: Raven... you cannot win.
Hey, it's the biped Pulverizer, except it looks a bit different. Yes, this
is the super version of it. The new changes are it moves faster and has a
new attack: Cross Beam Wave. It's like the ordinary beam wave except
extremely powerful and looks cooler. Fortunately, it has to stand still to
use it. Unload the KINNARAs, the EOs, and the SHADE2 on it only when it is
still. Back boost a lot since it moves fast enough to try and blade you to
death. It has a lot more AP than the normal biped so fire those micro
missiles as much as possible. Once it starts to talk, it's almost dead.
If you prefer to fight it fair and square, meaning no quick kill with micro
missiles, it will quickly adapt to your tactics and setup. As with the other
Ravens, counter accordingly and remember to keep moving. All blade attacks and
the Cross Beam Wave can easily break AC parts regardless of how much AP is
remaining.
Secret part: YH08-MANTIS. S-rank the mission. It's a bit difficult to attain
an S mainly because of the kamizake onslaught to survive for quite some time.
As for the Pulverizer, only hit it when standing still. Avoid Cross Beam Wave
obviously to obtain S.
S-RANK
Difficulty: *******
See Secret part strategy.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3b. JACK-O ROUTE
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Missions:
Distribution Center Recon
Acquire The Commodity
Pursue Withdrawing MT
Retake Distribution Center
Recover The Cargo
Protect Allied Squadron
Protect Transport Team
Secure The Terminal Area
Rescue Allied Force
Destroy Plant's Defenses
Protect The Bridge
Help Allied MT Escape
Destroy Research Facility
Shutdown Defense Systems
Defeat Jack-O
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*WARNING: DO NOT TAKE THIS MISSION UNLESS YOU HAVE BEATEN ONE PATH OR HAVE
DECIDED TO IMPORT NEXUS OR NINEBREAKER DATA. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.*
Distribution Center Recon
Requester: Alliance Headquarters
Operation Area: Diorgan Distribution Center
Objective: Investigate the enemy facility.
Reward: 136,000c
Difficulty: **********
Recommended setup:
Head - 69S(tune cooling to max)
Core - GAEA(tune cooling to max)
Arms - 72F(tune aiming accuracy to max)
Legs - 69S(tune cooling to max)
Booster - BIRDIE(tune booster speed to max)
FCS - MUREX
Generator - G78(tune energy output to max)
Radiator - R76(tune normal cooling to max)
Inside - none
Extension - none
Back L - none
Back R - 69M
L - none
R - PIXIE3
Optionals: none
Enemies: CR-MT77M, CR-MT83RS
Strategy:
If you choose not to listen to the warning above, this is the hardest first
mission in all of Armored Core history. Anyways, mow down the local MTs
stationed in the area. Then, you'll understand why this mission gets the
very rare 10 * difficulty rating...
Boss: Bolt
Thunderstrike AC setup:
Head - CICADA
Core - U3
Arms - LEMUR2
Legs - 90A2
Booster - BIRDIE2
FCS - VOLUTE2
Generator - KUJAKU
Radiator - R92
Inside - MEDUSA
Extension - none
Back L - LX
Back R - LX
L - GRIFFON
R - SHADE
Hangar L - PERYTON
Special computer type data:
The unit is equipped with multiple energy weapons. Repeated hits will cause
abrupt temperature spikes.
Quotes:
Bolt's AP at 50%: You're not half bad...
Bolt's AP at 25%: I'm not done yet!
Your AP at 60%: I thought you were better than this...
Your AP at 30%: Give up already!
Another Nexus Raven, Bolt's AC is different. The fearsome LX cannon is still
present, but the HOLLOW has been traded for the SHADE, and the GRIFFON on the
left arm. Avoid close range at ALL COSTS! The LX, for AC newcomers, is a
powerful laser cannon that deals a lot of damage(2000 range). In addition,
due to the new part breaking system, it is able to easily break parts in one
shot. The SHADE, for the uninitiated, is a decent laser rifle with a lot of
killpower potential and accurate. The GRIFFON is a dual laser rifle that is
accurate and creates a lot of thermal stress. To fight in close range would
be suicide so avoid that. If the GRIFFON is out of ammo, Bolt will switch to
the PERYTON pulse rifle hangar. It can deal good damage quickly, but only at
close range.
Just stay at mid range and keep attacking until Bolt dies. Use
the buildings to hide if you are unsure LX shots cannot be dodged(it's a HUGE
blue laser). As I said earlier, you are going to have a very hard time
winning if you selected this path first. Even with the setup above, your
chances of winning are very slim and most likely you will die. Stick with
Pulverizer #1 path or another path that doesn't have this mission as the
starting one.
Secret part: CR-WBW78R. Behind one of the 2 generators by the gate when
fighting Bolt, the one on your right(when you face him). JIKYOH. Beat
Thunderstrike.
S-RANK
Difficulty: *******
It's unlikely you'll get an S if this is the first path you select. To emerge
victorious, try the following setup.
Head - QUEEN(tune energy defense to max)
Core - GAEA(tune energy defense to max)
Arms - GIBBON2(tune aiming accuracy to max)
Legs - LYNX2(tune energy defense to max)
Booster - VULTURE2(tune booster heat to max)
FCS - VOLUTE2
Generator - G91(tune energy output to max)
Radiator - ANANDA(tune normal cooling to max)
Inside - none
Extension - RM2
Back L - none
Back R - NYMPHE
L - GAST
R - SHADE
Optionals: ES, EC, MARISHI, GOLGI, HISTON, PHAGE
Whatever you do, NEVER GET HIT BY THE LX LASER CANNON!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Acquire The Commodity
Requester: Jack-O
Operation Area: Hordess Mining Site
Objective: Acquire the commodity.
Reward: 0c
Difficulty: ******
Recommended setup:
Head - 69S(tune cooling to max)
Core - 69U(tune cooling to max)
Arms - 72F(tune cooling to max)
Legs - LT69(tune cooling to max)
Booster - none
FCS - MUREX
Generator - G91(tune energy output to max)
Radiator - R76(tune normal cooling to max)
Inside - none
Extension - SAISUI
Back L - GERYON
Back R - none
L - none
R - PIXIE3
Optionals: none
Enemies: MT08H/M-OSTRICH, CR-MT98G
Strategy:
Destroy the MTs in the area with the PIXIE3. Eventually you'll meet..
Boss: Green Horn and MT Pilot(CR-MT85B)
Hotspur AC setup:
Head - E2
Core - 3UA
Arms - GIBBON2
Legs - BOAR2
Booster - none
FCS - COWRY
Generator - KUJAKU
Radiator - R92
Inside - DD
Extension - MORAY
Back L - LADON
Back R - SKYLLA2
L - SILKY
R - PIXIE3
Hangar L - ARGOS2
Special computer type data:
The unit is equipped with multiple energy weapons. Mobile attack maneuvers
are recommended.
Quotes:
MT Pilot(CR-MT85B) dies: You're even better than they say...
Green Horn's AP at 50%: You're not bad...
Your AP at 50%: This is too easy...
Your AP at 10%: You're mine!
This otherwise difficult fight can be made extremely easy by taking advantage
of the tunnels. Horn starts outside the tunnel and usually won't enter. You
can play peek-a-boo with Horn and feed him a GERYON shot as long as you are
in the tunnel. The battle is easy as long as you remain in the tunnel. If you
ever hear a charging sound, that means Horn is about to fire the railgun.
These weapons fire extremely high velocity shots and are nearly guaranteed to
hit. They usually can overheat ACs per hit and always stun your AC. Avoid
these by hiding in the tunnels. The rest of the weapons are weak, except for
the SKYLLA2. After beating up Green Horn, take care of the MT Pilot in their
CR-MT85B machine.
Secret part: CR-YWH05R3(left). Beat the mission. YWH07-DRAGON(left). Beat
Hotspur.
S-RANK
Difficulty: ***
The aforementioned strategy is good enough to yield an S. Just don't exit the
tunnels to avoid losing AP.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pursue Withdrawing MT
****READ BELOW*********
SEE PULVERIZER #1 PATH!
****READ ABOVE*********
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retake Distribution Center
Requester: Alliance Tactical Unit
Operation Area: Diorgan Distribution Center
Objective: Eliminate the occupation force.
Reward: 100,000c
Difficulty: ***
Recommended setup: SHADE, GOLGI
Enemies: CR-MT85M, MT08M-OSTRICH, MT11-STARLING, foot soldiers
Strategy:
A DAE mission. No need to explain. The laser-firing STARLINGs are the only
MTs that might pose a threat. Only attack them when they are on the ground
and remember to dodge their laser. It can take out your AP fast so don't
let them live too long.
S-RANK
Difficulty: **
As stated above, the STARLINGs are the only threat to an S. Aside from this
minor issue, you should get it on your first try.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Recover The Cargo
Requester: Alliance Headquarters
Operation Area: Garav Desert
Objective: Recover the cargo.
Reward: 136,000c
Difficulty: ***
Recommended setup: SHADE, GOLGI
Enemies: MOLE
Strategy:
Another DAE. You don't even need to protect anything since there are no
defense targets. The MOLE MTs can dive into the ground, negating all attacks.
Obviously, wait until it resurfaces. Its pulse blasts are fairly damaging
though but you should kill them before that happens. Keep away and damage
should be kept to a minimum.
S-RANK
Difficulty: *
Should get this on your first attempt.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Protect Allied Squadron
Requester: Independent Warlord(Mumu)
Operation Area: Airsul Dam
Objective: Escort squadron and destroy enemy units.
Reward: 108,000c
Difficulty: ****
Recommended setup: hover leg unit, HB(hover booster), GAST, SHADE,
EO core
Enemies: CR-MT77M, AEW360R, CENTAUR-AA, CR-AH79(defense target)
Strategy:
Destroy all the MTs you come across. When you get to the end, deactivate
the hovers and wait for the energy to recharge. When enemies start appearing,
activate the hovers and destroy them quickly. Repeat until all waves of AH79s
have made it to the other side of the map. If you are using a hover leg unit,
you should have no problem traversing the waters.
Secret part: CR-WB03LGL2. S-rank the mission. All AH79s must survive the
attacks. Two weapons with high attack power but sufficient ammo are needed.
An EO core also helps, as well as a long-range FCS.
S-RANK
Difficulty: *****
See Secret part strategy.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Protect Transport Team
Requester: Independent Warlord(Mumu)
Operation Area: Old Nire Industrial Area
Objective: Ensure the safety of the transport team.
Reward: 110,000c
Difficulty: ****
Recommended setup: GAST, SHADE, EO core
Enemies: CR-MT77RO, CR-MT83RS, CR-MT06SB, MT08M-OSTRICH, foot soldiers
Strategy:
Quickly use the GAST and SHADE to get rid of the ROs. Run over the foot
soldiers next and wait. Once the RS MTs appear, go to where the first wave
of trucks are. Destroy the OSTRICHs quickly, then destroy the approaching
RS MTs. Stand by the doors leading to the exit for the trucks. The moment
the doors open, fire the EOs, GAST, and SHADE on the SB MTs. Stand right
next to them to protect the targets. Repeat for the next door. That wasn't
so hard was it?
Secret part: JIREN. S-rank the mission. All defense targets must survive. To
get an S, you must destroy the MTs the moment they arrive. The 83RS MTs can
destroy one vehicle in one shot so they are the first to go. There are two
waves of them towards the end so be careful.
S-RANK
Difficulty: *****
See Secret part strategy.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Secure The Terminal Area
Requester: Alliance Tactical Unit
Operation Area: Walter Material Storage Site
Objective: Create a diversion/secure terminal area.
Reward: 131,000c
Difficulty: *******
Recommended setup:
Head - CICADA2(tune shell defense to max)
Core - 89E(tune arm capacity to max)
Arms - XS(tune shell defense to max)
Legs - 81A2(tune shell defense to max)
Booster - none
FCS - LIMPET
Generator - G91(tune energy output to max)
Radiator - ANANDA(tune normal cooling to max)
Inside - none
Extension - JIREN
Back L - CHIMERA
Back R - CHIMERA
L - GORGON
R - SHADE
Optionals: AMINO, SS, EC, GOLGI, PHAGE, 79L+
Enemies: CR-MT98G, TAP-LT6
Strategy:
The 98G MTs take quite a beating so use the GORGON and SHADE to destroy them.
These units use a small grenade gun and a napalm howizter, which has the
same effect as napalm rockets. Soon enough, an old foe reappears to fight.
Boss: Omega
Clown Face AC setup:
Head - WASP
Core - E2
Arms - MACAQUE
Legs - ORYX2
Booster - VULTURE
FCS - 73H
Generator - LOTUS
Radiator - ANANDA
Inside - BIKUNI
Extension - RM3
Back L - 72CGL
Back R - SPARTOI
L - 95G
R - M2
Special computer type data:
The unit equips a variety of weapons, including a rapid-fire machine gun.
Close-range combat is not advised.
Quotes:
Omega's AP at 50%: ...
Yet another Nexus Raven makes their debut in Last Raven. Those who fought
Omega before are well aware of how dangerous he is. He's even more dangerous
now with the extension missiles and better AI. The machine gun, EO, and the
grenade gun all quickly eat AP, specifically yours. Lucky, the CHIMERA and
the GORGON can quickly turn the tides in your favor. Once the cutscene ends,
drop the SHADE, fire the GORGON and CHIMERA, and activate the EOs. Keep
firing the GORGON and CHIMERA when lock on is achieved. If you have
difficulty getting a lock on with the CHIMERA, blindy shoot it. The four
beams fired at once are large enough to hit a part of Omega if you're
lucky.
Secret part: KARURA. In the east end of the sewers. When you drop down to the
last sewer area, boost all the way to the end. CR-H0X5-EYE3. Beat Clown Face.
S-RANK
Difficulty: *******
Using the setup I recommend is suffice to reap the rewards. You just need to
ensure Omega doesn't take off too much AP and you don't miss with the GORGON
and CHIMERA. If you still have difficulty, switch to biped legs and use the
SPIRIT hi laser rifle and the GAEA EOs. A blade will do for the 98G MTs.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rescue Allied Force
Requester: Alliance Tactical Unit
Operation Area: Walter Material Storage Site
Objective: Rescue the allies and secure the facility.
Reward: 90,000c
Difficulty: **
Recommended setup: head with bio-sensor function, LB2
Enemies: AMIDA
Strategy:
It's DAE for this one. Just blade all the AMIDAs to death. Then, head for
the room where the defense target is. Kill them fast before they chomp your
AP with their rapid pulse blasts.
S-RANK
Difficulty: *
You should nab this on your first attempt.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Destroy Plant's Defenses
Requester: Alliance Tactical Unit
Operation Area: Duerr Energy Plant
Objective: Destroy all enemy defenses.
Reward: 132,000c
Difficulty: *****
Recommended setup: SHADE, LB2, good ECM performance
Enemies: SPORE, MT09ROE-OWL, MT11-STARLING
Strategy:
Another DAE. Blade the OWLs to get rid of the ECM problems, shoot the SPOREs,
and watch out for the STARLINGs' laser blasts. To make this easier, get rid
of all the OWLs first, then the SPOREs, and finally the STARLINGs. Caution
is advised as there are numerous STARLINGs in this mission and your AP can
go down FAST.
Secret part: WH03M-FINGER(right). S-rank the mission. Shoot down all SPOREs
first to make things easier. Next, blade the OWLs but don't do it in front
of them. The STARLINGs can dodge well so only fire when on the ground.
S-RANK
Difficulty: ****
See Secret part strategy.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Protect The Bridge
Requester: Alliance Tactical Unit
Operation Area: Ruga Tunnel
Objective: Protect the bridge's anchor point.
Reward: 108,000c
Difficulty: ***
Recommended setup: SHADE, GAST, EO core