The gameplay in Armored Core VI emphasizes mecha-based vehicular combat. Players in this game take on the role of expert pilots in control of strong mechs known as Armored Cores. The huge flexibility for modification of these mechs with the use of various parts allows players to enhance and sharpen their capabilities.
The option for players to arm their mechs with a range of weaponry is a standout aspect of the game. One on each hand and one on each of the mech's shoulders are available slots for these weapons. The players' broad arsenals grant users strategic freedom as they participate in combat.
The arena concept from the game's predecessors remains in place and appears through a "combat aptitude evaluation program." Players engage notable NPC mechs in a combat simulation, and earn "OS Tuning" chips which allow for certain abilities and upgrades to be unlocked. Additionally, players may engage each other through online play in 1-v-1 or 3-v-3 matches; initially, only private lobbies were available, but ranked matchmaking was added in a later update.
The in-game currency, credits, is awarded to players that complete missions successfully. The amount of credits earned for these missions is influenced by the several factors, which include bonuses for completing additional objectives as well as expenditures for repairs and ammunition costs.
Armored Core VI did away the debt system from earlier games in the series, which caused players to lose money as tasks fail. This time, players have the ability to attempt missions as many times as they want with no concern for lost currency.