Armored Core VI Boss Guide – All Bosses

Find out how to defeat all the bosses in Armored Core VI with our comprehensive strategy guide.

Mission 01: Illegal Entry

Encounter the challenging HC Helicopter, the primary boss in Armored Core VI’s Main Mission 01: Illegal Entry. Master this boss battle with our expert strategies. Learn how to optimize your approach against this formidable foe and emerge victorious in your quest.

Introduction to HC Helicopter Boss Fight

Prepare to face the first boss of Armored Core VI during Main Mission 01: Illegal Entry. The encounter demands a predefined loadout for all players, emphasizing skill over stat manipulation.

Achieve an effective HC Helicopter Boss Strategy victory in the HC Helicopter boss fight by implementing the following strategic manoeuvres:

Close Combat Maneuver: Gain the upper hand by closing the distance to the helicopter and launching attacks with your left-hand melee blade. Consistently employ your missiles and rifle for heightened damage output.
Lock-On Advantage: Begin by establishing a lock-on to the boss using R3: / Right Stick, enhancing your accuracy.
Swift Assault: Initiate a rapid advance toward the boss by activating L3: / Left Stick, then execute strikes using the left blade (L2: / LT:). Continuously fire your right-hand weapon with R2: / :RT: held down. Simultaneously, utilize R1: / RB taps to unleash shoulder launchers once they’re recharged.
Resource Management: Monitor your energy closely, visible as the white “stamina bar” at the screen’s bottom. Following melee assaults, your energy depletes, causing you to descend. However, energy replenishes within seconds. Seek cover behind structures when the boss releases a barrage of missiles.
Cycle of Engagement: Upon energy restoration, revisit step 2—approach the boss, engage in melee, and fire additional weaponry. Repeat this cycle to maximize your impact.
Missile Evasion: Evade incoming large missiles by executing Left Stick (right) + :Square: / X. Alternatively, if airborne toward the boss, tilt the left stick – left/ right to maneuver and dodge in-flight.
Proximity Advantage: Maneuvering underneath the helicopter’s close range reduces its accuracy. While it moves actively, adopt an aggressive stance. Swiftly re-engage the boss, focusing on relentless melee strikes. Capitalize on stagger instances (noted by a red health bar) for heightened vulnerability and damage. Utilize melee attacks and other strikes during this phase for optimal impact.

Unveiling Core Gameplay Elements As a hallmark of FromSoftware games, the initial boss encounter poses a formidable challenge. Use this battle to familiarize yourself with core gameplay elements, including melee combat, shoulder weapons, firearms, flight mechanics, evasion techniques, and energy/stamina management.

Mission 08: Operation Wallclimber

Engage the Juggernaut boss with a strategic approach that capitalizes on its vulnerabilities.

Juggernaut Boss Build Setup

All necessary components for this build are obtainable by the time you confront the Juggernaut boss. If any required parts remain locked, consider quitting out and engaging in “Mission 6: Attack the Dam” to accumulate funds. This mission grants approximately 170,000 COAM in just 90 seconds. Additionally, you can resell existing parts at their purchase price. Recreate the following build for optimal results:

Right Arm: SG-026 HALDEMAN – Available at Shop for 75,000 COAM after completing Chapter 1: Missions 6 & 7
Left Arm: HI-32: BU-TT/A – Obtained at the game’s outset (story-related)
Right Back: BML-G1/P20MLT-04 – Obtained at the game’s outset (story-related)
Left Back: BML-G1/P20MLT-04 – Obtained at the game’s outset (story-related)
Head: HD-012 MELANDER C3 – Obtained at the game’s outset (story-related)
Core: DF-BD-08 TIAN-QIANG – Available at Shop for 390,000 COAM after Mission 2: Destroy Artillery Installations
Arms: AR-012 MELANDER C3 – Obtained at the game’s outset (story-related)
Legs: LG-012 MELANDER C3 – Obtained at the game’s outset (story-related)
Booster: BST-G2/P04 – Available at Shop for 72,000 COAM after Mission 2: Destroy Artillery Installations
FCS: FCS-G1/P01 – Obtained at the game’s outset (story-related)
Generator: AG-J-098 JOSO – Obtained at the game’s outset (story-related)
Expansion: None required

Efficient Juggernaut Boss Strategy

Engage the Juggernaut boss with a strategic approach that capitalizes on its vulnerabilities:

Exploit Weakness: The boss boasts substantial front shielding and resistance to most assaults. Target its rear for optimal results.
Back Attack Strategy: To maximize damage, position yourself behind the boss. Ascend using X /A: and land stealthily in its blind spot.
Attack Combination: Launch a devastating combo by utilizing your left-hand melee blade for significant damage and your right-hand shotgun for close-range effectiveness. Employ shoulder weapons as soon as they are ready.
Teammate Assistance: During the initial phase, a teammate will accompany you, diverting the boss’s attention. Exploit this opportunity to access the boss’s rear easily.
Solo Stage Challenge: As the boss’s health reaches approximately half, your teammate departs, intensifying the challenge. The boss may evade your attempts to flank. Swiftly fly toward the boss using :L3: (Left Stick). Sidestep with :square: / X1 or fly over and land behind.
Staggering Sequence: Execute quick melee and shotgun strikes to stagger the boss. Once the top stagger bar turns red, the boss becomes vulnerable and susceptible to increased damage. Exploit this phase by unleashing a barrage of attacks, including shoulder weapons.
Melee Dominance: Leveraging the boss’s weakness to melee attacks, pair it with a shotgun for maximum effect. Given your limited parts selection at this game stage, the remaining components hold minimal significance.

By adhering to this optimized build and strategic approach, you can confidently triumph over the Juggernaut boss encounter. Enhance your gaming experience and showcase your expertise by conquering this challenging foe effectively.

Mission 11: Attack The Watchpoint

Master the Balteus boss encounter with a meticulously designed build and a straightforward strategy that ensures your success. Unleash your power with the right parts and tactics to dominate this challenge in your game.

Balteus Boss Build Setup

All necessary components for this build are attainable by the time you confront the Balteus boss. If any required parts remain locked, consider a strategic approach: engage in “Mission 6: Attack the Dam” to amass funds. This mission yields around 170,000 COAM in a mere 90 seconds. Additionally, you can resell pre-existing parts at their original purchase price. Replicate the exact build outlined below for optimal outcomes:

Right Arm: MG-014 LUDLOW – Obtainable upon completing Beginner Training 1: Basic Controls
Left Arm: MG-014 LUDLOW – Obtainable upon completing Beginner Training 1: Basic Controls
Right Back: VP-60LCS – Accessible at Shop for 147,000 COAM after completing Chapter 1: Missions 6 & 7
Left Back: VP-60LCS – Accessible at Shop for 147,000 COAM after completing Chapter 1: Missions 6 & 7
Head: HD-012 MELANDER C3 – Attainable after completing Mission 1: Illegal Entry
Core: DF-BD-08 TIAN-QIANG – Available at Shop for 390,000 COAM after Mission 2: Destroy Artillery Installations
Arms: DF-AR-08 TIAN-QIANG – Available at Shop for 200,000 COAM after Mission 2: Destroy Artillery Installations
Legs: LG-022T BORNEMISSZA – Accessible at Shop for 280,000 COAM after completing Mission 8: Operation Wallclimber
Booster: None (auto-equipped with Tank Legs)
FCS: FC-006 ABBOT – Attainable after completing training mission Intermediate Support 1: Assembling an AC
Generator: VP-20D – Accessible at Shop for 416,000 COAM after completing Mission 8: Operation Wallclimber
Expansion: None required

Effective Balteus Boss Strategy

Harness the power of this build to overpower the Balteus boss effortlessly. Boasting heightened health from components with optimal AP (Health) and Defense Stats, coupled with formidable damage output via dual machine guns and back-mounted laser guns, you’re poised for victory. Execute the following strategy with ease:

Immediate Lock-On: Initiate the battle by locking onto the boss immediately (R3; / Right Stick) for enhanced targeting precision.
Proximity Advantage: Maintain close proximity to the boss by airborne approach using X / A. Given the tank-oriented build’s ground maneuverability challenges and the inability to shoot while evading ( Square / X1 ), flying provides superior mobility and continuous shooting capacity.
Sustained Fire: Employ an unrelenting barrage by firing all four guns at all times. Engage both main guns by holding L2: + E2 / LT + RT, and consistently tap L1 + R1 / LB + RB to activate shoulder weapons. Stay as close to the boss as possible to amplify damage output and expedite shield deterioration.
Staggering Sequence: Leverage shoulder weapons’ Impact Damage to shatter shields and stagger the boss. Close-range hand weapons also inflict substantial damage. Upon staggering the boss, unleash a relentless onslaught for swift damage. The boss sustains significantly more damage while staggered, and its shields will remain disabled for a period. Capitalize on this interval to maintain proximity and inflict sustained damage.
Close-Range Dominance: The cornerstone of success lies in maintaining close range. Long-range attacks are countered by the boss’s deflective shields, while close-range assaults effectively dismantle these defenses.

By implementing this specialized build and simplified strategy, you can triumph over the Balteus boss encounter with sheer might. Elevate your gaming prowess and celebrate your victory over this challenge, demonstrating your skill and expertise.

Mission 12: Infiltrate Grid 086

Discover how to conquer the formidable EC-0804 Smart Cleaner boss in Armored Core VI during Main Mission 12: Infiltrate Grid 086. This colossal “cleaning robot” armed with fiery projectiles emerges as the final challenge in this mission.

Fortunately, there exists an uncomplicated brute-force tactic that demands no advanced skills to vanquish this boss. Success hinges on assembling the correct loadout and employing a strategic approach.

EC-0804 Smart Cleaner Boss Loadout

By the time you confront this boss, you should have acquired all the necessary components. If any of these parts are locked, consider leaving and accumulating funds through “Mission 6: Attack the Dam.” This mission yields approximately 170,000 COAM in just 90 seconds. You can also vend existing parts at their original price. Replicate this precise configuration:

Right Arm: DF-GA-08 HU-BEN – Available for 170,000 COAM after completing Mission 11: Attack the Watchpoint
Left Arm: DF-GA-08 HU-BEN – Available for 170,000 COAM after completing Mission 11: Attack the Watchpoint
Right Back: SONGBIRDS – Obtainable for 182,000 COAM after completing Mission 11: Attack the Watchpoint
Left Back: SONGBIRDS – Obtainable for 182,000 COAM after completing Mission 11: Attack the Watchpoint
Head: HD-012 MELANDER C3 – Attained after finishing Mission 1: Illegal Entry
Core: DF-BD-08 TIAN-QIANG – Accessible for 390,000 COAM after Mission 2: Destroy Artillery Installations
Arms: AR-012 MELANDER C3 – Story-related, achieved post-Chapter 1 – Mission 1: Illegal Entry
Legs: LG-022T BORNEMISSZA – Purchase for 280,000 COAM after Mission 8: Operation Wallclimber
Booster: Automatically equipped with Tank Legs
FCS: FC-006 ABBOT – Earned after completing Intermediate Support Training Mission 1: Assembling an AC
Generator: VP-20S – Obtained after completing Intermediate Support Training Mission 1: Assembling an AC
Expansion: Terminal Armor – Procured through the AC Tuning Menu

EC-0804 Smart Cleaner Boss Effortless Strategy

Execute this setup to effortlessly overpower the boss. Ascend above the boss and direct your assault at the exhaust port on its upper side. This tactic prevents the boss from launching frontal melee attacks while you’re airborne. Employ 2 x SONGBIRD shoulder-mounted weapons to assail its exhaust, rapidly destabilizing the boss. Capitalize on this moment to unleash Dual-Wielded Gatling Guns on its front, yielding substantial damage. Replicate this sequence 2-3 times to triumph over the boss.

Stay within close range during the stagger phase when employing the Gatling Guns, as they inflict significantly greater damage. Should the Shoulder Weapons fail to cause instant destabilization, continue targeting the exhaust with Gatling Guns.

Keep in mind that the Gatling Guns might overheat after extended use. Allow them to cool down while utilizing the SONGBIRD shoulder weapons in the interim. Due to the Gatling Guns’ effectiveness during stagger phases, the boss can be defeated within a mere 1-2 minutes.

Mission 14: Ocean Crossing

Discover how to overcome the formidable Sea Spider boss encounter in Armored Core VI during Main Mission 14: Ocean Crossing. Serving as the Chapter 2 Endboss, Sea Spider stands out as one of the game’s most challenging adversaries.

Thankfully, there exists a straightforward brute-force strategy that necessitates no specialized skills to triumph over this boss. Success hinges on crafting the right loadout and executing a strategic approach.

Sea Spider Boss Loadout

By the time you face off against this boss, you should have access to all the essential components. In case any of these parts remain locked, consider taking a break and amassing resources through “Mission 6: Attack the Dam.” This mission provides approximately 170,000 COAM in a mere 90 seconds. You can also vend unused parts at their original purchase price. Replicate this specific setup:

Right Arm: DF-GA-08 HU-BEN – Purchaseable for 170,000 COAM after completing Mission 11: Attack the Watchpoint
Left Arm: DF-GA-08 HU-BEN – Purchaseable for 170,000 COAM after completing Mission 11: Attack the Watchpoint
Right Back: SONGBIRDS – Obtainable for 182,000 COAM after completing Mission 11: Attack the Watchpoint
Left Back: SONGBIRDS – Obtainable for 182,000 COAM after completing Mission 11: Attack the Watchpoint
Head: HD-012 MELANDER C3 – Acquired after finishing Mission 1: Illegal Entry
Core: DF-BD-08 TIAN-QIANG – Accessible for 390,000 COAM when the shop opens post-Mission 2: Destroy Artillery Installations
Arms: AR-012 MELANDER C3 – Integral to the story, obtained upon completing Chapter 1 – Mission 1: Illegal Entry
Legs: LG-022T BORNEMISSZA – Purchaseable for 280,000 COAM after completing Mission 8: Operation Wallclimber
Booster: Integrated with Tank Legs
FCS: FC-006 ABBOT – Achieved after completing Intermediate Support Training Mission 1: Assembling an AC
Generator: VP-20S – Obtained after completing Intermediate Support Training Mission 1: Assembling an AC
Expansion: Terminal Armor – Available via the AC Tuning Menu

Sea Spider Boss Effortless Strategy

With this setup, overwhelming the boss becomes simple. The high AP (Health) and Defense Stats of the selected components grant ample durability, while the combination of dual-wielded Gatling Guns and shoulder cannons ensures devastating damage output.

Here’s the straightforward method:

Lock onto the boss at the outset of the fight using the Right Stick (R3) for improved targeting accuracy.
Maintain close proximity to the boss by utilizing the flying maneuver (X / A), capitalizing on the enhanced mobility and the ability to fire weapons while evading.
Sustain a continuous barrage by firing all four guns at all times. Employ L2 + R2 / LT + RT to fire the main guns and repeatedly tap L1 + R1 / LB + RB to discharge both shoulder weapons. Stay as close to the boss as possible to maximize damage output and quickly break through its shields.
The powerful Impact Damage dealt by the shoulder weapons will stagger the boss frequently, enabling you to unleash the immense damage of the Dual-Wielded Gatling Guns during the stagger phase. Don’t overcomplicate the timing; consistent firing is key for success. The same loadout proves effective throughout the game. When the enemy is staggered, capitalize on the moment to inflict substantial damage, as staggered foes are more vulnerable.
Maintain close proximity to the boss to prevent deflection of Gatling gun bullets. At close range, the bullets inflict heightened damage, particularly during stagger phases. While Gatling Guns may overheat, allow them to cool down, and repeat the cycle while continuously firing the shoulder weapons as they become available.

Incorporating this approach, you’ll master the importance of staying close to the boss, optimizing damage output, and achieving victory through sheer force. The meticulous use of close-range tactics will be pivotal in your triumph.

Mission 27: Destroy the Ice Worm

Discover the strategy to conquer the formidable Ice Worm boss in Armored Core VI during Main Mission 27: Destroy the Ice Worm, marking the pivotal Chapter 3 Endboss encounter.

Securing the “VE-60SNA” (Needle Gun) Shoulder Weapon is paramount for success. This weapon is pivotal in breaking the Ice Worm’s shield with just a single hit, and you acquire it automatically before embarking on this mission. Effective triumph is determined by assembling the right loadout and implementing a strategic approach.

Ice Worm Boss Loadout

All the necessary components are attainable by the time you confront this boss. Should any of these components be inaccessible, consider redirecting to “Mission 6: Attack the Dam” to amass funds. This mission garners around 170,000 COAM in a mere 90 seconds. You also have the option to vend previously acquired parts at the initial purchase price. To recreate this optimal setup:

Right Arm: DF-GA-08 HU-BEN – Available for 170,000 COAM after completing Mission 11: Attack the Watchpoint
Left Arm: DF-GA-08 HU-BEN – Available for 170,000 COAM after completing Mission 11: Attack the Watchpoint
Right Back: VE-60SNA – Obtained upon completing Mission 26: Historic Data Recovery
Left Back: SONGBIRDS – Purchaseable for 182,000 COAM after completing Mission 11: Attack the Watchpoint
Head: HD-012 MELANDER C3 – Attained after finishing Mission 1: Illegal Entry
Core: DF-BD-08 TIAN-QIANG – Accessible for 390,000 COAM upon the shop’s opening post-Mission 2: Destroy Artillery Installations
Arms: AR-012 MELANDER C3 – Integral to the story, obtained upon completing Chapter 1 – Mission 1: Illegal Entry
Legs: LG-022T BORNEMISSZA – Purchaseable for 280,000 COAM after completing Mission 8: Operation Wallclimber
Booster: Integrated with Tank Legs
FCS: FCS-G2/P05 – Obtainable for 67,000 COAM after completing Mission 8: Operation Wallclimber
Generator: VP-20S – Acquired after completing Intermediate Support Training Mission 1: Assembling an AC
Expansion: Terminal Armor – Obtainable through the AC Tuning Menu

Ice Worm Boss Effortless Strategy

Follow this streamlined approach to triumph over the Ice Worm boss with ease. Wait for the Ice Worm to decelerate and expose its face. Utilize the Needle Gun Shoulder Weapon “VE-60SNA” to shatter its shield in a single shot. Subsequently, your team will discharge a powerful laser that topples the worm. Exploit this opportunity to swiftly advance and assail the creature. Recreate this sequence during the second phase.

In the third phase, your allies might sustain damage, intensifying the Worm’s aggression and its ability to unleash substantial bursts of red Coral Energy. When the Worm prepares to release red energy, retreat and wait for an opening to employ the Needle Gun on its exposed face. The third phase requires two Needle Gun hits to incapacitate the Worm. Rush in once more and engage with firepower.

For optimal results, employ Dual-Wielding Gatling Guns to capitalize on the stagger phase’s effectiveness. Additionally, deploy your other shoulder weapons while the boss is vulnerable—combining the Needle Gun and Songbird shoulder weapons with Gatling Guns yields remarkable damage. Opting for a Heavy Tank Build bolsters your resilience and longevity, enhancing your chances of success.

Mission 34: Reach the Coral Convergence

CEL 240 serves as the formidable main boss encounter within Armored Core VI, appearing in the climactic Chapter 4 Endboss battle during Main Mission 34, known as “Reach the Coral Convergence.” This particular encounter is renowned as one of the game’s most challenging battles.

Fortunately, there exists an effective and straightforward brute-force tactic that doesn’t demand advanced skills to conquer this boss. Success hinges on employing the appropriate configuration and tactics.

Optimal CEL 240 Boss Configuration

All the necessary components for this setup become accessible by the time players face this boss. If these components remain locked, consider discontinuing the battle temporarily and engaging in “Mission 6: Attack the Dam” to accumulate funds. This mission yields around 170,000 COAM within a mere 90 seconds. Alternatively, selling existing components at their purchase price is also feasible. To replicate this configuration, adhere to the following:

Right Arm: DF-GA-08 HU-BEN – Obtainable for 170,000 COAM after completing Mission 11: Attack the Watchpoint
Left Arm: DF-GA-08 HU-BEN – Obtainable for 170,000 COAM after completing Mission 11: Attack the Watchpoint
Right Back: VE-60SNA – Rewarded upon completing Mission 26: Historic Data Recovery.
Left Back: VE-60SNA – Purchaseable for 283,000 COAM after completing Mission 27: Destroy the Ice Worm
Head: HD-033M VERRILL – Purchaseable for 205,000 COAM after completing Mission 27: Destroy the Ice Worm.
Core: DF-BD-08 TIAN-QIANG – Purchaseable for 390,000 COAM once the shop opens after Mission 2: Destroy Artillery Installations
Arms: DF-AR-09 TIAN-LAO – Purchaseable for 310,000 COAM after completing Mission 11: Attack the Watchpoint
Legs: LG-022T BORNEMISSZA – Purchaseable for 280,000 COAM after completing Mission 8: Operation Wallclimber.
Booster: Automatically equipped with Tank Legs FCS: FC-006 ABBOT – Attained after completing Intermediate Support Training Mission 1: Assembling an AC Generator: VP-20D – Purchaseable for 416,000 COAM after completing Mission 8: Operation Wallclimber.
Expansion: Terminal Armor – Obtainable through AC Tuning Menu

Effective Strategy for Defeating CEL 240

By adhering to this configuration, you can overpower the boss with relative ease. The setup provides substantial health due to high AP (Health) and Defense Stat parts. Moreover, it delivers formidable damage output through dual-wielding gatling guns and twin Needle Guns mounted on the back. The Needle Guns promptly stagger the boss, while the Gatling Guns unleash significant damage during this vulnerable phase.

The strategy is as follows:

Immediately lock onto the boss upon commencement of the battle (press R3 or manipulate the Right Stick). This facilitates accurate hits.
Maintain close proximity to the boss by flying toward it (use X or A). The tank-based setup is unwieldy on the ground, and evading with Square or X1 hampers weapon usage. Flight permits better maneuverability and the ability to sustain fire.
Keep all four weapons firing continually. Depress L2 + R2 or L2 + R2 to activate the primary guns, and intermittently tap L1 + R1 or LB + RB to fire both shoulder weapons. Remaining in close quarters maximizes damage output and speeds up shield depletion.
The shoulder weapons deal substantial Impact Damage, ensuring consistent staggering of the boss. Meanwhile, the Dual-Wielded Gatling Guns inflict formidable damage at close range during stagger phases. Aim to employ the Shoulder Guns when the boss remains stationary in midair. Subsequently, swiftly stagger the boss using the Gatling Guns, and sustain fire with both Needle Guns and Gatling Guns during the stagger, repeating the cycle. There’s no need to focus on evasion; maintaining proximity and eliminating the enemy swiftly is the essence of this approach, reliant on sheer force. A few attempts might be necessary, particularly if the boss eludes the Needle Guns.

The crux of success lies in maintaining proximity. At long distances, gatling gun projectiles deflect. However, at close range, deflection ceases, amplifying damage significantly, especially during stagger stages. Although Gatling Guns will overheat, pause to allow cooldown before resuming fire, sustaining this cycle while consistently engaging the shoulder weapons when the enemy stands still or is staggered.

Mission 40: Shut Down the Closure Satellites

Prepare for a showdown with Ayre, the formidable Endboss featured in the initial ending of Armored Core VI. This epic encounter takes place during Main Mission 40, aptly titled “Shut Down the Closure Satellites.”

Fear not, as a straightforward brute-force technique exists, demanding minimal skill to outmaneuver this boss. Triumph hinges on your strategic prowess and the correct build configuration.

Optimal Ayre Boss Build

All essential components are at your disposal before confronting this boss. Should any components remain locked, consider temporarily discontinuing the engagement to participate in “Mission 6: Attack the Dam,” an effective method for amassing funds, yielding approximately 170,000 COAM in a mere 90 seconds. Alternatively, the option to sell existing components at their purchase price remains viable. To precisely replicate this setup, adhere to the following specifications:

Right Arm: DF-GA-08 HU-BEN – Obtainable for 170,000 COAM after completing Mission 11: Attack the Watchpoint
Left Arm: DF-GA-08 HU-BEN – Obtainable for 170,000 COAM after completing Mission 11: Attack the Watchpoint
Right Back: VE-60SNA – Reward granted upon completing Mission 26: Historic Data Recovery.
Left Back: VE-60SNA – Purchaseable for 283,000 COAM after completing Mission 27: Destroy the Ice Worm
Head: HD-033M VERRILL – Purchaseable for 205,000 COAM after completing Mission 27: Destroy the Ice Worm.
Core: DF-BD-08 TIAN-QIANG – Purchaseable for 390,000 COAM once the shop opens after Mission 2: Destroy Artillery Installations
Arms: DF-AR-09 TIAN-LAO – Purchaseable for 310,000 COAM after completing Mission 11: Attack the Watchpoint
Legs: LG-022T BORNEMISSZA – Purchaseable for 280,000 COAM after completing Mission 8: Operation Wallclimber.
Booster: Automatically equipped with Tank Legs
FCS: FC-006 ABBOT – Attained after completing Intermediate Support Training Mission 1: Assembling an AC
Generator: VP-20D – Purchaseable for 416,000 COAM after completing Mission 8: Operation Wallclimber.
Expansion: Terminal Armor – Obtainable through AC Tuning Menu

Effortless Strategy for Overcoming Ayre

By adopting this configuration, overpowering the boss becomes a feasible feat. The setup affords substantial health by utilizing components boasting the highest available AP (Health) and Defense Stats. Furthermore, the damage output becomes extraordinary thanks to dual-wielding gatling guns alongside twin Needle Guns mounted on the back. The dual Needle Guns efficiently stagger the boss, while the Gatling Guns unleash formidable damage during these vulnerable phases.

The strategy is straightforward:

The battle’s outset mandates immediate locking onto the boss (use R3 or manipulate the Right Stick). This considerably enhances precision in landing hits.
Maintain close proximity to the boss by propelling forward through flight (use X or A). Navigating on the ground using the tank-based setup proves challenging, while evading with Square or X1 compromises weapon functionality. Flight offers enhanced maneuverability, facilitating consistent engagement.
Keep all four weapons firing uninterruptedly. Depress L2: + R2 or LT + RT to activate the primary guns. Concurrently, tap L1 + R1 or LB + RB repeatedly to discharge both shoulder weapons (aim for moments when the boss remains stationary or charges an attack for a guaranteed hit). Maintain close proximity to maximize damage output and expedite shield depletion.
The shoulder weapons induce significant Impact Damage, ensuring the boss remains staggered for the majority of the encounter. Meanwhile, the Dual-Wielded Gatling Guns inflict formidable damage at close range during stagger phases. Aim to unleash the Shoulder Guns when the boss is stationary. Swiftly follow up with the Gatling Guns to initiate stagger, sustaining fire using both the Needle Guns and Gatling Guns throughout the stagger, perpetuating this cycle. Notably, the Needle Guns yield substantial damage during the stagger phase. Evading extensively is unnecessary; prioritize maintaining proximity and achieving swift victory over the enemy, relying on sheer force. Success might demand several attempts, particularly if the boss manages to evade the Needle Guns.

The key to triumph lies in sustained proximity. At lengthy distances, gatling gun projectiles deflect. Conversely, minimal deflection occurs at close range, magnifying damage output significantly—particularly during stagger phases. Despite Gatling Guns overheating over time, permit cooldown intervals before resuming fire, repeating this cycle. While engaging the shoulder weapons, remain in close aerial proximity, enhancing the likelihood of the Needle Gun’s electric discharge striking the enemy, even if not a direct hit. Shooting from above generates a splash damage zone on the ground, which proves advantageous compared to ground-level shots that might miss their target.

For more help, check out our guide on how to beat all arena bosses.