This is a guide on how to defeat and strategies for Rusty in Armored Core 6 (AC6). We also provide recommended builds (equipment), so if you're having trouble defeating Rusty or find it challenging, please refer to this guide.

How to Beat V. IV Rusty

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 this boss for the first time, we recommend equipping weapons that will get you through the mission first, then changing your build once you are defeated for the first time.

V. IV Rusty Boss Recommended Builds

Dual-Wielded Shotguns

Equip long-range shotguns in both hands. Attack Rusty after he quick boosts, when he lands, or when he performs close-range attacks. This setup effectively reduces his HP and causes him to get staggered easily.

Grenade Launchers on Both Shoulders

Grenade cannons are great to use against Rusty, but save them for when he gets staggered or you're right above him. Remember that your AC will have to stop to fire the Songbirds, so make sure you're far enough from him to avoid any close-range attacks.

Recommended Assembly

Weapons
Right Hand	SG-027 ZIMMERMAN
Left Hand	SG-027 ZIMMERMAN
Right Shoulder	SONGBIRDS
Left Shoulder	SONGBIRDS
Frame Parts
Head	HD-011 MELANDER
Core	CC-2000 ORBITER
Arms	AR-011 MELANDER
Legs	RC-2000 SPRING CHICKEN
Inner Parts
Booster	BST-G2/P04
FCS	FC-006 ABBOT
Generator	VE-20A

V. IV Rusty Boss Strategy

Similar Strategies for Chapters 4 and 5

While the conditions change slightly between the stages you face Rusty in, his basic attack patterns remain the same. That means you can use the shotgun + grenade cannon combo and expect to win.

Be Cautious of Rusty Reviving Himself

In the second time you face Rusty, he will repair himself up to 2 times. Also, once you've reduced his HP to zero, he'll revive himself with half of his total HP. Get ready to fight him some more and don't get comfortable.

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.

Start by Attacking Rusty Before He Attacks You

Attack Rusty with a boost kick or high-damage weapon the moment it seems like a head-on collision with him is about to happen. Depending on your build, you can stagger him and force him to use one of his repair kits..

Try to fire your weapons in a sequence. Fire the shotguns first, followed by a kick, then fire both of your grenade cannons.

Pile Bunker Provides a Sure-Hit Opportunity

At the start, you have a chance to reduce Rusty's AP by nearly 60% with a well-placed Pile Bunker hit. In the video, the order of use is Kick → Shotgun to Stagger → Pile Bunker.

Perfect Opportunity To Attack During Close-Range Attacks

When Rusty is in the middle of a close-range attack animation, take the opportunity to attack with a high-damage weapon from a position where his close-range attacks won't hit you. Maintaining a height difference between you and Rusty ensures that you can dodge his close-range attacks with ease.

Make Use of Kicks in the Battle

Using boost kicks while your weapons are reloading can efficiently reduce Rusty's AP. Kicks deal high HP and Impact damage. Since you won't run out of EN for quick boosts, kick him frequently.

Rusty Performs Consecutive Close-Range Attacks When Your Mech Is Staggered

When your mech is staggered, Rusty will launch consecutive close-range attacks. If there's an altitude difference between you and Rusty, his close-range attacks often miss. So make sure you're high above Rusty if you think you're about to get staggered.

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