In a nutshell

• Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve announced at The Game Awards 2025, the first mainline entry in 7 years.
• Features a deep Campaign Mode set in Strangereal, where players fight as the legendary “Wings of Theve” to reclaim their homeland.
• Launching in 2026 on PS, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam, with multiplayer dogfights and more details to come.

Bandai Namco Entertainment Asia has officially announced Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve, the long-awaited return of the legendary aerial combat franchise, releasing in 2026 for PS5, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam

Revealed during The Game Awards 2025, the new entry marks the series’ first mainline release in seven years. It promises to deliver the most visually stunning and emotionally charged Ace Combat experience yet.

Ace Combat 8 – A New Era of Aerial Combat

Developed by Bandai Namco Aces Inc., Ace Combat 8 harnesses the power of Unreal Engine 5 and proprietary technology to create ultra-realistic skies, aircraft, and battle effects. The announcement trailer showcased breathtaking gameplay, giving fans a first glimpse at the game’s deep Campaign Mode.

Players will step into the cockpit as the legendary “Wings of Theve”, an ace pilot fighting for the survival of the Federation of Central Usea (FCU). With their homeland occupied and navy shattered, players must lead daring missions alongside three new fighter pilots against the Republic of Sotoa, reclaiming their nation and carrying the hope of every FCU citizen.

Campaign and Multiplayer Modes

Ace Combat 8 will feature:

• Engaging Campaign Mode – An emotionally charged story of identity, duty, and survival in the world of Strangereal.
• Multiplayer Dogfights – Intense aerial battles against friends and foes, promising unforgettable competitive experiences.
• Photorealistic Skies – Enhanced visuals with detailed aircraft, dynamic clouds, and immersive effects that redefine the series’ signature style.

A Message from Kazutoki Kono

Kazutoki Kono, Brand Director of the Ace Combat series, shared his vision for the new title:

“This time, what we aimed for with ‘8’ is not mere evolution. It is deepening. We revisited every element — the skies, the aircraft, the sensation of flight, the music — and refined them to create a sky you have never seen before.”

Kono emphasized that Ace Combat 8 represents a culmination of six years of development, promising fans a meticulously crafted experience that stays true to the franchise’s identity while pushing it to new heights.