Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve’s release date puts us back in the seat of an ace pilot, after a rather lengthy break, tasking us with soaring through the skies and engaging in intense dogfights as we attempt to reclaim our lost homeland. Below, we break down everything known so far about the Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve release window, supported platforms, gameplay details, trailers, and the latest updates from the developers.
The latest entry in Bandai Namco’s long-running series blends first-person scenes, through which we learn more about our pilot’s story, with its trademark high-octane action that lets us channel our inner elite pilots as we dodge projectiles and shoot down scores of enemy aircraft.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve Release Date
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve was originally given a 2026 release window before publisher Bandai Namco Entertainment confirmed, during June’s State of Play 2026 showcase, that the title is set to launch on October 2, 2026.
- Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve release date: October 2, 2026
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve Gameplay
Gameplay-wise, Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve aims to deliver a hefty serving of intense dogfights, its campaign mode promising “fast-paced arcade-style gameplay” that allows us to fly aircraft through “dynamic multi-layered cloudscapes” as well as “deploy powerful weapons to dominate the battlefield.”
These sections are broken up by first-person scenes that see us bonding with squad mates as well as learning more about our pilot’s past and the broader conflict in which the world is embroiled.
Both single-player and multiplayer modes are confirmed, with the latter being described as “the most expansive multiplayer experience in franchise history.”
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve Story
Ace Combat 8’s story picks up following the Republic of Sotoa’s swift invasion of The Federation of Central Usea. As a fighter pilot loyal to the latter, we’re found adrift by the Endurance, one of the few remaining vessels of the nation’s navy.
Having dodged death, we jump back into the cockpit to bring the fight to the enemy. Along the way, we’ll form bonds with key allied figures.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve Price & Platforms
- Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is currently set to release on PC, via Steam, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.
Two Ace Combat 8 editions have been confirmed. You can find their price and content below. In addition, Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War’s PS5-ported version and F-14A Tomcat plane act as pre-order bonuses.
Standard Edition - $69,99
- Ace Combat 8 Wings of Theve (full game)
Deluxe Edition - $89,99
- Ace Combat 8 Wings of Theve (full game)
- Customizable Cosmetic Set
- Premium Ace Pass Plus Voucher
- 3-Day Early Access
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve Trailers
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