Publisher Bandai Namco and developer Bandai Namco Aces have released a 10-minute walkthrough trailer for flight action game Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve, featuring a first look at in-depth gameplay.
Here are the latest details, via Bandai Namco:
The walkthrough trailer breaks down the core systems that players will want to learn and master as they take on the role of an ace pilot in Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve. Delivering a fast-paced aerial combat experience built around complete 360-degree flight freedom and dynamic weather effects, the game puts players in the cockpit to engage in intense dogfights. The series’ signature intuitive controls and easy to understand systems drive the high-speed action, where staying on target to achieve objectives while evading incoming missiles with defensive maneuvers, including high-G turns performed in the heat of battle, are the keys to victory. Wingmen also play an important role in combat in Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve, with players issuing tactical commands such as attack and cover orders in real time.
Beyond the action in the skies, preparation plays a key role before every sortie. Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve features a wide selection of real-world aircraft along with original aircraft. Players are encouraged to consider the mission objective and their playstyle to pick the best aircraft for the job and can build fighters tailored to each mission by customizing with upgrade parts and special weapons. Mission briefings provide strategic insight, encouraging players to adapt their aircraft and tactics to each combat scenario.
The trailer also showcases massive enemy superweapons that dominate the battlefield with overwhelming offensive and defensive capabilities. Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve introduces new gameplay mechanics that allow players to damage these colossal targets outside designated target zones. In addition, the giant targets can now strike areas beyond their designated target containers and destroying them can trigger chain reactions as the wreckage of downed enemy weaponry collides with nearby targets, taking out surrounding foes. Players will also face elite ace squadrons that employ coordinated aerial tactics and relentless attacks, creating high stakes encounters that demand precision piloting, strategic thinking, and mastery of aerial combat.
As recently announced, Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is due out for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam on October 2.
Watch the video below, followed by a full transcript.
Walkthrough Trailer
Welcome, pilots—to Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve.
The long-running flight shooting series known for weaving together fast-paced dogfights and cinematic narratives makes its return with a brand new entry.
We hope you enjoy this sneak-peek into its setting and gameplay.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve immerses you in a true free-flying experience. You will assume the role of a fighter jet pilot.
Take flight with complete 360-degree freedom as you soar through skies brought to life with detailed weather effects.
The real thrill lies in dogfights.
Ace Combat sets itself apart with its adrenaline-filled combat and intuitive gameplay.
The Ace Combat series takes place in the fictional world of Strangereal—and its story unfolds through mission briefings and in-game operations.
Strangereal takes real-world–inspired geography and blends it with fictional history, including impossible superweapons and and dramaric conflicts between nations.
Careful preparation before every sortie is critical to an Ace pilot’s survival.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve features a diverse lineup of real-world fighter jets from across the globe.
You can unlock additional fighter jets using MRP, an in-game currency earned in missions.
Consider the mission objective and your playstyle and pick the best aircraft for the job.
You also have a wide array of special weapons to choose from.
Build a fighter jet tailored to each mission by freely combining parts to upgrade your aircraft.
Different missions call for different loadouts.
Take note of your objectives during briefings and carefully adjust your strategy to carve a path towards victory.
Radar is one way to track down enemies, but it isn’t the end-all-be-all.
You can pinpoint the location of enemy aircraft using visual cues such as contrails or the glint of a cockpit reflecting sunlight.
A defining feature of the Ace Combat series lies in its face-offs with massive superweapons.
Colossal weapons vastly larger than any fighter jet rear their heads as major threats on the battlefield.
Equipped with offensive and defensive capabilities that defy conventional logic, these enemies are anything but easy to defeat.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve‘s newest feature allows you to damage these massive superweapons outside of their target boxes.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve introduces a new strategic element where enemies you shoot down or destroy can trigger chain reactions that take out surrounding enemies.
Strategize and execute efficient tactics to dominate the battlefield.
In addition to its enthralling dogfights, Ace Combat has captivated fans with its rich story.
You’ll face countless life-or-death situations and be forced to make important decisions in the heat of battle.
Go head to head against enemy ace squadrons—who demonstrate advanced tactics and seamless teamwork. Put your piloting skills to the ultimate test.
Employ defensive tactics—avoid incoming missiles by using chaff and flares or pull off the occasional daring maneuver like a high g-turn at the height of battle.
Rest Assured. You are not alone. Your trusted wingmen will always fight alongside you.
As the flight leader, you must issue precise orders tailored to the situation—such as “Forward Attack” or “Cover.”
Survive the battlefield alongside your team.
In key missions, you’ll face off against powerful superweapons capable of untold destruction.
Weave through their relentless onslaughts, coordinate with your allies, and turn the tide of these battles.
In 2029, a new conflict breaks out in Strangereal between the Federation of Central Usea and the Republic of Sotoa.
It’s up to you to push back the Sotoan incursion and take back your homeland. Step into the cockpit and get ready to take flight.
This concludes our introduction to Ace Combat‘s next dramatic flight shooter—Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve.
We look forward to seeing you in Strangereal’s skies—whether you’re a veteran who has fought on countless battlefields or a rookie taking flight for the first time.