ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE Launches in Early Access Ahead of October 2 Release

Bandai Namco Entertainment Europe has announced that ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE is now available in Early Access worldwide for players who digitally pre-ordered the Deluxe Edition.

The latest entry in the long-running flight combat series is available through Early Access on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam, ahead of its full worldwide launch on October 2, 2026.

A New Era for ACE COMBAT

ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE marks the first mainline entry in the series in seven years. The game is powered by Unreal Engine 5 alongside Bandai Namco Aces Inc.'s proprietary technology, aiming to deliver a more detailed and cinematic aerial combat experience.

The game features a large selection of real-world fighter jets, highly detailed terrain and environments, and first-person cinematic sequences. It also introduces the largest multiplayer experience in ACE COMBAT history, including cross-play between supported platforms.

A New Story in the ACE COMBAT Universe

Set in the series' fictional universe, the game follows the fall of the Federation of Central Usea (FCU) after its occupation by the Republic of Sotoa.

Players take on the role of the "Wings of Theve," a group of ace pilots fighting to reclaim their homeland while facing overwhelming enemy forces. The decisions players make during their missions will also influence the course of the story and the future of the FCU.

Expanded Multiplayer

Multiplayer has also been significantly expanded, with players able to customise their mercenary pilot and connect with other pilots through the game's Air Base hub.

From there, players can take part in a variety of cooperative and competitive online modes, with cross-play allowing pilots across supported platforms to play together.

ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE is available now in Early Access for Deluxe Edition owners and will launch worldwide on October 2, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam.