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Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve 2026
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is a combat flight simulation video game released in 2026 by Bandai Namco Entertainment. It was developed by Bandai Namco Aces and is available for Windows, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S. This title marks the ninth mainline entry in the Ace Combat franchise and continues the story from Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown, which came out in 2019. The game takes place in the fictional world of Strangereal during the year 2029, where a conflict exists between the Federation of Central Usea and the Republic of Sotoa. The narrative centers on a character named "Rex," a Usean fighter pilot who is assigned to become the new "Wings of Theve." This role was originally created for propaganda purposes based on fictional exploits.
The game's concept draws inspiration from real-life myths surrounding ace pilots such as the Ghost of Kyiv and Colonel Tomb, focusing on themes like information warfare, disinformation, corporate influence in global politics, and resilience in difficult situations. Development began with an announcement in 2021, followed by a reveal at The Game Awards 2025, setting the release for 2026. Gameplay follows traditional Ace Combat patterns but enhances earlier elements, especially emphasizing player squadron dynamics and offering a more cinematic storytelling style. A multiplayer mode called Ace Combat Online is included with the game and operates independently from the single-player campaign.
Released on October 2, 2026, the game received favorable reviews from critics who highlighted its gameplay, visual design, audio quality, music, thematic elements, and immersive experience. However, opinions were divided regarding the story and how cutscenes were handled, as well as certain features within Ace Combat Online. Within about a week after launch, the title sold over 1 million copies, making it the fastest-selling game in the Ace Combat series history.
Trailer
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Crew
- Director
- Kazutoki Kono, Kosuke Itomi, Natsuki Isaki, Masashi Koyonagi
- Artist
- Masato Kanno, Keiichi Yamaguchi
- Writer
- Sunao Katabuchi
- Producer
- Manabu Shimomoto
- Music
- Keiki Kobayashi, Ryo Watanabe, Mitsuhiro Kitadani
Details
- Developer
- Bandai Namco Aces
- Publisher
- Bandai Namco Entertainment
- Platforms
- PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox Series X/S
- Modes
- Single-player, multiplayer
- Engine
- Unreal Engine 5
- Series
- Ace Combat
