Balteus is one of the toughest early-game bosses in Armored Core 6. You will come across this boss during Chapter 1, in the Attack the Watchpoint mission. It is basically an Autonomous Craft that fires a barrage of missiles along with some really devastating attacks. In this guide, we have detailed some tips and tricks that will help you easily defeat Balteus in Armored Core 6.
Armored Core 6 Defeat Balteus
At the start, in order to damage Balteus, you must breach his shield. It is important to stun Balteus to be able to damage it. Initially, Balteus will launch a barrage of missiles that should not be too difficult to dodge. You are primarily concerned with an Assault Boost forward to deplete its shield.
As soon as the shield is down, you can use these moments of vulnerability to stun Balteus. However, be wary of Balteus’ surge attacks when his health reaches one-third as they can deal a lot of damage.
After the first phase is done, Balteus wields a flaming sword coupled with missile barrages. In this phase, finding the right balance between offense and defense is crucial to success.
Recommended Loadout
It is crucial to equip yourself with the right loadout in order to deal with Balteus effectively. Here are our recommendations:
| Right Arm | MG-014 LUDLOW |
| Left Arm | MG-014 LUDLOW |
| Right-Back | VVC-703PM |
| Left-Back | VVC-703PM |
The MG-014 LUDLOW is a fairly versatile weapon that delivers solid damage. Your best option for breaking Balteus’ shield is the VVC-703PM. Alternatively, you can also use the VP-60LCS if you cannot access the VVC-703PM. Lastly, we highly recommend equipping the TIAN-QIANG series for better defense.
How to Defeat
Throughout the encounter, it is crucial to maintain a safe distance while gradually wearing down Balteus’ shield. Frequently charge the VVC-703PM in order to weaken its shield. If it is on cooldown, you can switch to the MG-014 LUDLOW until it is off cooldown.
You should also be sure to keep an eye on Balteus’ shield. As soon as Balteus’ shield is broken, unleash a barrage of attacks. When it is staggered, use all your weapons to inflict maximum damage. As mentioned earlier, take advantage of this vulnerability window and chip away as much as you can at his HP.
The entire gameplay loop is to destroy its shield, stagger him, and deal damage until the shield regenerates. Continue doing this until Balteus is defeated.
You should also try to keep a safe distance from Balteus throughout the battle. Avoid getting too close since its area-of-effect attacks can deal a lot of damage. As long as you are at a moderate distance, you should be able to evade attacks while inflicting enough damage.
If you are positioned near the center of the arena, remember that its attacks tend to spread out. The most effective way to minimize unnecessary damage is to adjust your positioning frequently instead of staying in one place all the time.
This is everything we have on defeating Balteus in Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon. If there is anything else you would like to add, be sure to let us know in the comments below!