Armored Core V confirmed for the West

Yesterday, reports emerged out of Japan that Namco Bandai and From Software were on the verge of parting the curtain on Dark Souls, the follow-up to GameSpot's 2009 Game of the Year, Demon's Souls. However, that won't be the only game the two companies are partnering on.

As part of an event in San Francisco today, Namco Bandai announced that it would also be publishing the next installment in From Software's other major franchise, Armored Core V. As with Dark Souls, Namco Bandai will handle publishing duties for the game in North America and Europe only, while From Software will self-publish in Japan. The Namco Bandai-published version will be available on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 in 2012.

Previously announced for Japan, Armored Core V maintains the franchise's focus on high-octane mech combat and comprehensive customization options. From Software has focused on delivering more content this time around by incorporating new environments and enhancing the game's offline mode. Online modes will also be available, ones that will emphasis large-scale, team-based battles.

Armored Core V will also make a substantive break from previous installments in the franchise by offering smaller-scale mechs. The change, in theory, will shift the focus to more tactical gameplay, as opposed to brute-force attacks.

GameSpot will have in-depth previews on both Armored Core V and Dark Souls soon.