Achieving S-Ranks in the story missions of Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon requires a multifaceted approach, emphasizing speed, combat efficiency, and mission-specific strategies. Here’s a detailed guide to help you master these demanding missions:

General Tips for Achieving S-Ranks

1. Speedrun Mindset: Adopt a speedrun approach for most missions, prioritizing rapid completion over extended engagements. Minimize unnecessary confrontations unless required to meet mission objectives.

2. Combat Log Enemies: Identifying and defeating Combat Log enemies is crucial in certain missions (e.g., “Attack the Refueling Base” and “Old Spaceport”). These enemies contribute directly to your S-Rank eligibility and should be targeted strategically.

3. Optimized Builds: Construct a high-damage, rapid-fire build. Dual-wielding weaponry such as gatling guns (e.g., DF-GA-08 HU-BEN) combined with a dual stun needle launcher (e.g., VE-60SNA) can provide devastating firepower in high-tempo missions.

4. Resource Management: Although time is pivotal, keeping an eye on your resources like ammo and health can enhance your overall efficiency during missions. Aim for balanced usage to avoid late-game repair needs or ammo shortages.

Mission-Specific Strategies

Mission 06: Attack the Dam Complex
– Combat Log Focus: Ensure you defeat both critical Combat Log enemies: one located after the second generator on the upper frozen lake, and another optional group situated on the last frozen lake before reaching the fourth generator. Prioritize these engagements to secure necessary kills for your S-Rank.

Mission 07: Attack the Dam Complex [ALT MISSION]
– Team Engagement: Opt to fight your teammates in this alternate mission. Utilize a high-damage, rapid-firing build (such as dual gatling guns and dual stun needle launchers) to quickly dispatch foes and enhance your score.

General Missions
– Time Efficiency: For missions lacking specific requirements, concentrate on completing objectives swiftly. Distinguish between essential and optional combat engagements to streamline your efforts.

Additional Considerations

– Mission Type Understanding: Each mission type dictates the best loadout and strategy. Combat-heavy missions may require a focus on offensive capabilities, while exploratory missions might necessitate a more versatile or stealthy approach.

– Adaptability in Loadouts: Be ready to adjust your build according to mission-specific challenges. Missions populated with tougher enemies may call for higher defensive capabilities, while time-sensitive missions necessitate aggressive offensive strategies to minimize completion time.

Conclusion

By integrating these strategies and modifying your approach to suit each mission’s unique demands, you’ll enhance your chances of achieving S-Ranks across Armored Core VI’s story missions. Stay agile, refine your builds, and remember that practice makes perfect as you navigate the intricate landscapes and challenges of Rubicon. Good luck!