Bandai Namco’s New PS5 Flight Combat Game Is Out Today on PlayStation Store
Virtual dogfighting returns in full force today as Bandai Namco officially launches Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, bringing next-generation aerial warfare to flight simulation fans.
According to the official description of the game, Ace Combat 8 “delivers high-octane aerial action!” Players are invited to “Step into the cockpit and take flight as an elite pilot across stunning skies. Enter intense dogfights, eliminate threats, and rise through gripping missions to earn your wings.”
The project is developed by Project Aces, who have developed previous installments of the franchise as well. The game offers a slew of action-packed features as part of its gameplay.
How Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve builds on the series’ aerial combat formula
Ace Combat is first and foremost a combat flight simulation game, which thrives on simulated dogfights, eliminating superweapons in covert locations, and destroying ground and naval targets. Ace Combat 8 builds on these systems to deliver a stunning experience that is at its best in the latest installment.
The game’s Campaign Mode allows players to navigate a layered cloud system, which they must traverse while engaging targets. It offers arcade-style gameplay for easy handling, while players deploy devastating weapons against enemies and objectives alike.
While the gameplay aims to improve the simulation aspect of Ace Combat, the game also has first-person scenes of the pilot’s experience rendered with a cinematic approach.
The format gives players a more immersive experience of the pressures of combat, as they juggle commands and decisions in the heat of battle. Players are encouraged to use downtime between missions to bond with squad members.
There are two editions of the game that are for purchase. The Standard Edition includes Ace Combat 8, a playable F-14A aircraft, and the PS5 version of Ace Combat Zero. The Deluxe Edition adds a customizable cosmetic set, a Premium Ace Pass Plus voucher, and three days of early access to the standard bundle.
