How do you unlock mech customization in Armored Core 6 (AC6)

There are two things that draw mecha enthusiasts to games like Armored Core 6: blowing things up with their big robots and then customizing said big robots. Developer FromSoftware seems to have understood this passion and has plenty of both in the franchise’s sixth installment. However, at the beginning of the game, there aren’t any customization options. Here’s when customization is unlocked and how to do it.

When do you unlock mech customization in Armored Core 6 (AC6)?

To unlock mech customization, players must get through the meat grinder that the first mission and its notoriously difficult boss. Once the PTSD has worn off, players will have access to the Garage where they can swap out various parts, weapons, paint schemes, decals, and more. Under AC Design, players will have access to the following:

• Assembly
• Paint
• Decals
• Image Editor
• AC Data

Armored Core 6 AC Design – Assembly

Assembly is where the meat and bones of mech customization happen. Players can swap out acquired parts to build their dream mech. Things like body parts, weapons, boosters, generators, and more are selected in this menu. Each piece will have an impact on performance so if you’re limited by the Load capabilities then the various UI elements will alert you to the issue.

New parts are earned in three ways. They can be purchased through the Shop with new parts being added at set intervals upon completing missions. Alternatively, parts can also be earned by completing the various training missions. Finally, parts can be obtained through Loghunts. During any mission, players can obtain schematics for new parts by defeating specific targets.

Armored Core 6 AC Design – Paint

Now that you’ve settled on the core parts and how your AC will perform in combat, it’s time to apply a fitting paint job so it can look fabulous while blowing things up. Just like the Assembly menu, there are a multitude of paint options. Players can apply paint en masse for quick and easy jobs or they can customize nearly every minute detail for a completely unique design. In addition to the color, players can also choose the weathering, pattern, and luster.

Armored Core 6 AC Design – Decals

Decals add that little bit of “pop” to the AC. They’re akin to the waterslide details on Gunpla builds. More decals will be acquired as players work through the different missions. Otherwise, players can make their own decals with support for up to 40 layers. Up to 20 custom decals can be applied. One useful tip is that in-game decals can be applied as custom decals if you want to resize/reposition them.

Armored Core 6 AC Design – Image Editor

The Image Editor is exactly what it sounds like. Players can create their own custom decals in this dedicated space for use later. Those less inclined to spend time in the editor can also input a Share ID in the Downloads tab of the AC Design menu. This code will download the corresponding decal and make it available for use. Note that the Share ID must be found online (the Armored Core subreddit is a great place for this) and each code is platform-specific. Up to 100 custom decals can be saved.

Armored Core 6 AC Design – AC Data

AC Data is where players can view their saved designs and load them for easy editing or deployment on missions. Up to 40 builds can be saved per user profile. With four user profiles available, that’s a jaw-dropping 160 mechs to be had with additional slots for downloaded builds. Much like the decals, players can upload their creations and have them downloaded with a Share ID.

That’s all there is to when and how to customize your mech in Armored Core 6. It’s easy to lose track of time while building your perfect AC but remember to tackle those missions to unlock even more customization options!