Ace Combat 8 Officially Revealed at The Game Awards 2025

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Bandai Namco revealed Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve at The Game Awards 2025, and it’s exciting news for fans! It’s been six years since the last installment in this thrilling aerial combat series, and the developers had been quiet about its progress – until now. Thanks to The Game Awards, we finally know Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is on its way!

Wow, The Game Awards were insane last night! Seriously, so many big announcements. I couldn’t believe they revealed two new Tomb Raider games! And a brand new Star Wars Old Republic game? Awesome! I was also super hyped to see that weird desert statue was actually teasing a new Divinity game. But honestly, I almost lost it when Bandai Namco announced a new Ace Combat – I’ve been waiting years for that series to come back!

Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve Comes Out in 2026

The latest trailer at The Game Awards revealed that Ace Combat is returning in 2026, and it looks more impressive than ever. While rumors about Ace Combat 8 started in 2024, fans hadn’t seen much progress until now, aside from a brief comment earlier in 2025 from director Kazutoki Kono hinting at a comeback. The new trailer showcased fast-paced aerial combat, incredible graphics, and plenty of explosions, suggesting Bandai Namco Aces is putting a lot of effort into this installment. In addition to a campaign mode, the company confirmed the game will also feature multiplayer options.

Based on the trailer, Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve will put players in the cockpit as an elite pilot defending the Federation of Central Usea from the invading Republic of Sotoa. Between intense aerial battles, you’ll build relationships with your squadron and experience a story centered around themes of identity, duty, and hope. Bandai Namco Aces is using the power of Unreal Engine 5 to create a visually stunning game. While the planes are incredibly detailed, Ace Combat is known for prioritizing exciting gameplay over strict realism, and the new installment appears to continue that tradition. Players can look forward to flying authentic jets in thrilling, over-the-top action sequences that define the series.

Image via Bandai Namco

While there’s no confirmed release date yet, Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is currently planned to launch in 2026. The exact timing within the year is still unknown. Players can expect the game on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X. A version for the Switch 2 hasn’t been announced, but considering Ace Combat 7 came to the original Switch three years after its first release, a similar launch for the new game on Nintendo’s console is possible.

Image via Bandai Namco

Bandai Namco, the company behind Ace Combat, is currently experiencing a period of significant success. Their gaming profits increased by nearly 1,000% in the last fiscal year, and they have several exciting games planned for release in 2026. These include Ace Combat 8, along with Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition, The Dark Pictures Anthology: Directive 8020, and My Hero Academia: All’s Justice.

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2025-12-12 17:34