Seven years after the last Ace Combat game, Bandai Namco is finally ready to bring forth an exciting entry in the series. If the 2025 Game Awards announcement left you wanting more, here is everything you need to know about Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve.
What is the release date for Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve?
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve will release on October 2, 2026. Early Access starts on September 29.
What platforms will Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve release on?
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve will launch on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC (via Steam).
What price is Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve launching at?
A price for Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve has yet to be announced. Given AAA’s standard pricing, players can expect to spend $59.99 to $69.99 for the base game. Ace Combat 7 had a collector’s edition, but no announcement has been made regarding a similar edition for Wings of Theve.
Those who pre-order Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve by 2:59 PDT on October 1, 2026, will receive a port of Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War.
How does Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve’s gameplay work?
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is an arcade-style combat flight simulation game similar to the other entries in the series. Players will partake in intense dogfights now enhanced by Unreal Engine 5, thanks to the multi-layered cloudscapes, which will arguably become interrupted by some good old airborne firepower, and be used as tactical advantages by pilots.
The game also offers a Campaign Mode, featuring first-person scenes and “breathtaking cinematics.” Players will be able to bond with squad members between missions, and, according to the developers, your decisions throughout the campaign will matter.
What is the plot and setting of Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve?
The game takes place following the invasion of the Federation of Central Usea (FCU) by the Republic of Sotea in the world of Strangerea. This leads to an almost nationwide occupation and a military left in shambles. The protagonist, meanwhile, is a fighter pilot left adrift in the sea in a boat and is rescued by an outdated aircraft carrier, the Endurance, one of the FCU’s last remaining military fragments.
The protagonist will then become a squad leader in the Endurance and will be named the “Wings of Theve.” A legendary label tied to the FCU’s capital and manufactures to keep the morale alive, it is up to you to give it an authentic meaning through your heroism and piloting prowess.
Be sure to check out our 2026 video game and tech calendar for more upcoming releases.
