Bandai Namco has announced that Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve will launch on October 2, 2026, marking the first mainline entry in the aerial combat franchise in seven years.
The publisher unveiled the release date alongside a new story trailer that offers a closer look at the game’s campaign mode, key squadron members, and several of the large-scale battles players will encounter throughout the story.
Developed by Bandai Namco Aces, the game returns players to the fictional world of Strangereal, where they take on the role of an ace pilot fighting for the survival of their homeland. The campaign follows the player as commander of Joker Squadron alongside squadron members Baxter, Tasha, and Coster as they attempt to repel an invasion by the Republic of Sotoa and reclaim the Federation of Central Usea.
The trailer also provides a first look at several of the game’s large-scale encounters, including a massive “Land Battleship” that holds a key role in the story.
Bandai Namco said the game will feature more than 30 playable aircraft spanning both real-world fighters and original designs. Aircraft will be divided into four roles: fighters, attack aircraft, multi-role aircraft, and electronic warfare aircraft.
Players who preorder the game will receive a digital copy of Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War, the 2006 title that introduced the series’ Ace Style system and helped establish the modern Ace Combat universe.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve launches on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam on October 2. Digital Deluxe Edition owners will receive up to three days of early access beginning September 29, according to Bandai Namco.
