This is a guide on how to defeat the Tester AC in Armored Core 6 (AC6). We have also included recommended builds (equipment), so if you're having trouble defeating the Tester AC or find it challenging, please refer to this guide.

How to Beat Tester AC

Remember: You Can Always Change Your Build From the Retry Screen

If a certain build isn't working out for you, you can always change it through the ASSEMBLY button on the retry screen. If you're facing Balteus for the first time, we recommend equipping weapons that will get you through the Attack the Watchpoint mission first, then changing your build once you are defeated.

Recommended Weapons: Pulse Blades and Bazookas

The default Pulse Blade HI-32: BU-TT/A and the purchasable bazooka in the shop, DF-BA-06 XUAN-GE, can fill up the Tester AC's impact Meter by about 70% when they hit, making the battle much easier. Equip one of them.

Also, if you haven't purchased any extra parts yet, it's a good idea to buy missiles that can be fired from the left shoulder.

How to Defeat Tester AC

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

Aim for Stagger from a Not-Too-Close Range

The Tester AC will boost in for close-range attacks, so engage it at medium to close range and aim to stagger it. If you have melee equipment, try to get to a position where you can easily attack when it's about to get staggered.

Once Staggered, Deplete HP with an All-Out Attack

When the Tester AC gets staggered, focus on quickly depleting its HP. Give it all you got, and use high-damage weapons like your blade or bazookas first.

Attack Opportunities After Dodging Close Combat

Quick Boost

When you see it preparing to use its blade, quickly boost backward to evade. Right after evading, you can either fire a bazooka or use a quick boost to get closer and attack with your Pulse Blade.

Target It Even When It's Unaware at the Beginning

At the start of the mission, when the Tester AC hasn't noticed you yet, it's the perfect time to attack. If you have bazookas or long-range weapons, try to quickly deplete its Impact Meter and stagger it.

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