Bandai Namco has officially announced that Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve will launch on October 2, 2026, marking the first mainline entry in the long-running aerial combat series in seven years. Players who purchase the Deluxe Edition will gain early access beginning September 29.
Developed by Bandai Namco Aces, the upcoming title returns the franchise to its fictional Strangereal universe and aims to deliver the most ambitious campaign in the series to date. Built using Unreal Engine 5 alongside Bandai Namco’s proprietary Cloudly technology, the game promises enhanced visual fidelity across its large-scale air battles, environments, and cinematic storytelling.
The story centers on a conflict involving the Federation of Central Usea, which has fallen under occupation after an invasion by the Republic of Sotoa. Players take on the role of an ace pilot known as Wings of Theve, whose callsign becomes a symbol of resistance and hope for a nation fighting for survival. Throughout the campaign, players will fly alongside three squadron members named Baxter, Tasha, and Coster, collectively known as Joker Flight.
Bandai Namco says the game will feature a story focused on themes of identity, duty, and sacrifice, while continuing the series’ tradition of combining military drama with large-scale aerial warfare. The newly released trailer showcases intense dogfights, massive battles, and several key moments involving Joker Flight and the struggle to reclaim the occupied homeland.
In addition to its single-player campaign, Ace Combat 8 will include online multiplayer modes. While details remain limited, Bandai Namco has confirmed that additional information on the multiplayer component will be revealed ahead of launch.
Pre-orders are available now on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. All digital pre-orders include a copy of Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War, the fan-favorite 2006 entry widely regarded as one of the franchise’s defining releases. Players will also receive an unlocked F-14A aircraft for use in Ace Combat 8 at launch.
The Deluxe Edition includes additional content and access to the new Premium Ace Pass Plus Voucher, which grants access to the game’s first seasonal Premium Ace Pass after release. Bandai Namco describes the Ace Pass as a progression system featuring unlockable rewards such as aircraft skins, avatar cosmetics, and additional playable aircraft.
One of the featured rewards is the ADFX-02 Morgan, the iconic aircraft associated with Pixy from Ace Combat Zero. Players who activate the Premium Ace Pass will also instantly unlock the first 30 progression tiers, allowing immediate access to a portion of the seasonal rewards.
Bandai Namco is additionally offering a Joker Flight Pack through its online store. This collector-focused bundle includes all Deluxe Edition content alongside a premium package containing two soundtrack vinyl records, a 200-page art book titled ACES at WAR HISTORY 2029, a collectible slipcase, and a themed slipmat.
With the return of Strangereal, a new cast of pilots, and the series’ first major installment since Ace Combat 7, Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is set to arrive on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC on October 2, 2026.
