First Armored Core with UI that isn't dogshit.

Finally irons out most of the basic polish and structural issues that had been plaguing the series (seamless transitions between shop and assembly, UI can show many more parts at a time, dual analog controls, missions can be retried instantly, more engaging economy with arena bets and weapon value degradation) and couples it with a much tighter campaign where a similar number of total missions is spread across multiple playthroughs for those interested. Missions are still bite-sized but tend to show their hand harder and faster. Enemy ACs "cheating" the way they do is sorta cool for the initial shock factor, but knowing it isn't possible to build or move like that is somewhat unsatisfying in the long run. "Damocles Sword" premise has no real bearing on the mechanics but gives the game a much more engaging presentation and tone.

Doesn't necessarily obsolete what preceded it but feels like the peak of that style and the easiest one to recommend.