Armored Core Nexus and Last Raven, both on the later end of the PlayStation 2, are at the least pretty interesting titles that showcase a want to change the formula, while also paying respect to fans. Armored Core is a series about big Mechs going on short missions and accomplishing directives from big corporations to survive in their world, and these games challenge that. Nexus wants to change it's foundation via it's design ethos, and Last Raven strives to be the ultimate experience for fans. Both make up a divisive but worthwhile experience. While Nexus has issues in design and other things, Last Raven has loads of story and gameplay scenarios that gets me immediately invested. While the trajectory between Armored Core 3 and 4th gen seems like a sharp contrast, these games help explain that design trajectory and puts things into context.
The Last Raven GameFaqs Guide that saved me:
https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/ps2/928203-armored-core-last-raven/faqs/38611
Credit goes to my brother and Slade for helping me with the script of this video, and my brother for helping me record Multiplayer. This video in it's current state wouldn't exist without them.
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
01:54 Armored Core Nexus Evolution
20:04 Nexus Spoilers
27:08 Armored Core Nexus Revolution
33:24 Armored Core Last Raven
57:40 Last Raven Spoilers
1:41:08 Conclusion
Songs not already stated in the video:
Sonic the Hedgehog (2006) - White Acropolis (Snowy Peak)
Armored Core Nexus - Come On Nexus
Armored Core Nexus - Like a Buffalo
Armored Core Nexus - Flood Of A Life
Armored Core Nexus - Blitz
Armored Core Nexus - Wall Flower
Armored Core Nexus - Chime
Armored Core Nexus - End Roll
Armored Core Last Raven - Telecast
Armored Core Last Raven - Vague Smoke
Armored Core Last Raven - Jean
Armored Core Last Raven - Works, Clocks, Signals
Armored Core Last Raven - Fallin' Device
Armored Core Last Raven - The Game
Armored Core Last Raven - Great Regularity
Armored Core Last Raven - Pride of Lions
Guilty Gear XX - Liquor Bar & Drunkard [Johnny's Theme]
Armored Core Last Raven - Six
Armored Core Last Raven - 5 point Five
Armored Core Last Raven - Closer
Armored Core Last Raven - Hype.Charles
Armored Core Nexus - High Sign
F-Zero GX - Stereo Signal