This is a guide on how to defeat the AH12 HC Helicopter boss in Armored Core 6 (AC6). If you're struggling with the first boss because it's too strong, please refer to this guide.

How To Beat the AH12 HC Helicopter Boss

Use Target Assist To Keep Track of the Enemy

If you get a Soft Lock on the boss and press R3, you will trigger Hard Lock or Target Assist. This makes combat easier because there is no need to follow the enemy with the camera controls. However, if the enemy goes off-screen with the camera, the lock-on will be temporarily disengaged, so be sure to not fiddle with the camera controls too much during combat.

Step 1: Wait for the Helicopter by the Building

First, move to the side of the building as shown in the picture. This is an excellent attacking position where you can attack the boss without getting hit. When you see the helicopter in the sky, use your Assault Boost to get close to it and attack with your Pulse Blade.

Step 2: Use Close-Range Attacks When the Helicopter Is Visible

When you see the helicopter, press the left stick to approach it, and then press L2 twice to perform a close-range attack with your Pulse Blade.

Step 3: After a Close-Range Attack, Try to Stay Below the Helicopter

After the close-range attack, stay directly below the helicopter and attack from a position where its machine gun shots cannot reach you. As soon as you get under it, the boss will start moving, so keep up with it.

Step 4: Use Assault Boost and Fill the Boss’ Impact Meter

After moving, make sure to change direction, and at that moment, use Assault Boost to get close and strike it again. If your attacks hit firmly, the helicopter's Impact Meter will fill up, which will stagger it and make it immobile.

Repeat Steps 1-4

You can repeat steps 1-4 without any issues, but always keep firing your missiles and assault rifle at the boss. When the helicopter gets staggered when you fill its Impact Metter, focus on striking it with your pulse blade. You will then eventually defeat it.

AH12 HC Helicopter Boss Strategy

Aim to deplete the boss' Impact meter Use close-range attacks when it's staggered Use repair kits Always avoid missiles Keep moving to minimize damage from the machine gun

Aim To Deplete the Boss’ Impact Meter

The Impact Meter (ACS Load Gauge) is the bar above the opponent's HP bar. When the gauge is full, the enemy will be immobilized for a certain period, so try to deplete the gauge as much as you can. The mechanism is similar to the posture system in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice.

Use Close-Range Attacks When It’s Staggered

When the enemy is staggered, use close-range attacks to quickly deplete its HP. Even right after using a close-range attack, the opponent remains staggered for a brief while so use your assault rifle and missiles.

Use Repair Kits

You can use your repair kit up to 3 times. If you're using the default control scheme, just press up on the D-Pad to use it.

Always Avoid Missiles

Be sure to avoid the boss' missiles at all costs. Using cover to avoid them is the best approach. You can also avoid missiles using your Quick Boost (press the Square button on the controller).

Keep Moving To Minimize Damage From the Machine Gun

The helicopter almost constantly fires its machine gun, so keep moving to reduce the damage you take. Even if you use cover, completely avoiding the shots is difficult.

What Happens When You Defeat the AH12 HC Helicopter Boss?

More Missions Are Unlocked in the Story

Defeating the helicopter boss unlocks new missions, allowing you to embark on the rest of the story. You can also replay missions you've cleared in the past.

You Can Customize Your Mech's Parts and Appearance

You'll be able to change your mech's parts, which is one of the great features of Armored Core. You can also customize your mech's color to your liking.

Tutorial Missions Are Unlocked

Tutorial missions will reward you with new weapons, so be sure to finish it once you're done with this boss.

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