How to Stagger enemies in Armored Core 6: Impact meter explained

Aakrit Sharma
A battle between mechs in Armored Core 6

Armored Core 6, by FromSoftware, is an action-packed game that requires you to build mechs that can fly, dodge, and attack efficiently. To make every battle easier, here’s how you can Stagger enemies in Armored Core 6

Armored Core 6 is the sixth main installment in the Armored Core franchise that helped FromSoftware make a name for themselves before the mainstream success of Soulsborne games. The developer is known for making extremely challenging missions and bosses, and it is no surprise that Armored Core 6 is a tough game as well.

Stagger and Impact are two of the most important combat mechanics in Armored Core 6 and they’re inspired by other FromSoftware hits such as Elden Ring and Sekiro. Hence, to beat the campaign and dominate multiplayer, you must learn how Stagger and Impact work.

On that note, here’s how you can Stagger enemies through the Impact bar in Armored Core 6.

Two mechs fighting in Armored Core 6
Armored Core 6 features a 6v6 multiplayer mode.

How to Stagger enemies in Armored Core 6

To Stagger enemies in Armored Core 6, you’ll have to completely drain out their Impact meter. The Impact bar is separate from the enemy’s health bar and it depletes as you continuously deal damage to the opponent through combos, heavy strikes, and other attacks. Unlike Sekiro, the Impact bar doesn’t go down if you stop attacking making it easier to Stagger.

Once the Impact bar turns red, the enemy temporarily enters a Staggered stage where it doesn’t attack or defend. Naturally, this is the best time to unleash your most powerful attacks and end the battle as quickly as possible.

Do note that your distance from the opponent impacts the duration for which they’ll be staggered in Armored Core 6. Closer enemies are easier to stagger and they remain in the state for a longer duration while far-off enemies might return to normal before you’re able to lash out enough damage.

What is Impact in Armored Core 6?

Impact in Armored Core 6 is a stat displayed by the yellow bar on top of the health bar. You can continuously deal damage or rely on heavy significant strikes to turn the Impact bar red.

With the right build and weapons, you should be frequently staggering enemies in Armored Core 6 by depleting their Impact bar. Of course, the success rate depends on other factors like stage, enemy type, distance, and weapon type as well.

To make things fair, Armored Core 6 has an Impact meter on top of the player’s health too. This means that taking continuous damage from enemies can Stagger your mech. Hence, it is best to focus on dodging incoming attacks as well as attacking.

Well, this was everything to know about the Impact and Stagger mechanics in Armored Core 6. For similar content, make sure to check out:

Will Armored Core 6 on Steam Deck | Armored Core 6 PC requirements | Armored Core 6 Preload guide | Armored Core 6 campaign length | Is Armored Core 6 open world | Is Armored Core 6 coming to Xbox Game Pass | Armored Core 6 editions explained

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