The skies are open. Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve has officially launched into Early Access, giving players a first chance to jump into the next chapter of Bandai Namco’s long-running flight combat series.
The first mainline Ace Combat 8 game in seven years, Wings of Theve puts players in the cockpit of an ace pilot fighting to reclaim the fictional Federation of Central Usea from the occupying Republic of Sotoa.
And this time, the series is going bigger.
Built with Unreal Engine 5 and Bandai Namco Aces Inc.’s proprietary technology, the game features detailed environments, real-world fighter jets, cinematic first-person sequences and what Bandai Namco calls the biggest multiplayer experience in the franchise.
Players can also customize their mercenary pilot, meet other pilots at the new Air Base hub, and take to the skies in cooperative and competitive multiplayer modes with cross-play support.
The story also puts players in the middle of a war where battlefield decisions can influence the future of the Federation of Central Usea.
ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE is available now in Early Access for players who digitally pre-ordered the Deluxe Edition on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC via Steam.
The full worldwide launch arrives October 2, 2026.
Time to fire up the engines.
