Bandai Namco Entertainment Europe today announced the worldwide Early Access launch of ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE, the first mainline entry in the acclaimed ACE COMBAT flight shooting series in seven years. Players who digitally pre-ordered the Deluxe Edition can access the game now through Early Access on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC via Steam, ahead of its worldwide launch on 2 October 2026.

ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE Launch Trailer

ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE elevates the flight shooting franchise to new heights with an ultra-realistic aerial thrill ride powered by Unreal Engine 5 and Bandai Namco Aces Inc.’s proprietary technology, delivering the series’ biggest multiplayer experience yet with cross-play, a wide range of real-world fighter jets, finely rendered terrain and environments, and first-person cinematic sequences.

Set in the series’ fictitious universe, the game follows the fall of the Federation of Central Usea (FCU) under occupation by the Republic of Sotoa. Players take on the role of the “Wings of Theve”, ace pilots fighting to reclaim their homeland, confront overwhelming enemy forces and determine the future of the FCU through the choices they make on the battlefield.

ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE also features the largest online multiplayer experience in the series’ history. Players can customise their mercenary pilot, connect with other pilots from around the world through the Air Base hub and take part in a variety of cooperative and competitive online modes.

ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE is available now in early access, and launches worldwide on 2 October 2026 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC via Steam.