The Ultimate Guide to Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is the next mainline entry in Bandai Namco's flight combat series and the sequel to 2019's Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown. Developed by Bandai Namco Aces and directed by Kazutoki Kono, it was announced at The Game Awards in December 2025.
Built in Unreal Engine 5, it launches on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC via Steam.
The October 1 Launch
The game unlocks at the same moment worldwide, which is why the date differs by region. As GameCurio explains, launch times are:
- Americas: October 1 at 3 PM PDT / 6 PM EDT
- Europe: October 2 at 12 AM CEST
- Japan: October 2 at 7 AM JST
Deluxe Edition owners get three days of early access starting September 28 in the Americas. On Steam in the US, the Standard Edition costs $69.99 and the Deluxe Edition costs $89.99.
💡 Note: Early buyers also receive the F-14A as a playable aircraft and a modern PS5, Xbox and PC version of Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War.
PS5 File Size
Storage needs are one of the biggest talking points ahead of launch.
According to ixbt.games, PlayStation Game Size now reports the PS5 version at about 108.6 GB. Standard Edition owners can preload from September 29.
- PS5: About 108.6 GB (latest report)
- Xbox Series X|S: About 140 GB listed
- PC: Around 140 GB, according to some reports
⚠️ Important: An earlier PS5 listing showed 88.3 GB for version 1.000.000. The larger figure likely reflects updated launch content, so leave extra space to be safe. Bandai Namco has not officially confirmed final install sizes.
The larger size is partly due to bigger maps, higher-quality aircraft models and a true 1:1 scale for real-world objects, instead of the scaled-down world used in earlier games.
Returning Aircraft Customization
Aircraft progression returns with familiar systems from Ace Combat 7. As OneMoreGame reports, players earn Military Result Points (MRP) in the campaign to unlock:
- Aircraft: More than 30 at launch
- Upgrade parts: Improve aircraft performance
- Special weapons: Choose loadouts before each sortie
The branching Aircraft Tree also returns, letting players decide which jets to unlock next. Aircraft fall into four categories, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.
Controls and Online Play
- Controls: Standard and Expert schemes
- Camera views: Third Person, HUD and Cockpit
- Online: According to Gematsu, Ace Combat Online includes Co-Op Assault and Co-Op Warfare, with an airbase hub hosting up to 100 players
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Developer | Bandai Namco Aces |
| Publisher | Bandai Namco Entertainment |
| Release | October 1 (Americas), October 2 (worldwide) |
| Platforms | PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC |
| Engine | Unreal Engine 5 |
| PS5 Size | About 108.6 GB |
| Aircraft | 30+ at launch |
| Price | $69.99 Standard, $89.99 Deluxe |
Why It Matters
Ace Combat 8 is the series' first new mainline game in over seven years. With larger maps, true-to-scale environments and deeper online modes, it aims to be the most ambitious Ace Combat yet.
🎮 The Bottom Line
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve launches October 1 in the Americas with a hefty PS5 install, 30+ aircraft and the return of the Aircraft Tree. Clear some storage and prepare for takeoff.
🔗 Sources
- Ace Combat 8 on Wikipedia: Background on development, engine, platforms and gameplay.
- TwistedVoxel on PS5 size and preloads: Covers the earlier PS5 listing, Xbox size and PC requirements.