The Armored Core V is an action game where the player controls a mech, a big combat robot. The story follows a reboot and has no direct connection to the predecessors. The protagonist gets caught up in a war between two corporations: Alloy Gate City, led by "Father", the dictator, and the resistance.
The gameplay involves moving forward and blasting enemy mechs and buildings, earning money that can be reinvested into mech upgrades. Mech customization is comprehensive, allowing for detailed changes and parts. The single-player content is intertwined with multiplayer, where clans fight over a persistent map.
Clan fights are an essential part of the game, with players able to found or join a clan from the start. Every action earns team points, which are required to challenge another clan for their territory. This adds a competitive element to the single-player experience and creates a sense of community among players.