ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE™ is inviting ACE pilots from around the world to prepare to engage in the most exhilarating multiplayer aerial combat experience ever when the game launches. In the new “Online 101” trailer for the game, Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. reveals new online game modes, progression and rewards, and a range of new content that’s accessible via a new Air Base virtual lobby that can host up to 100 players from around the world. The online mode in ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE features the same stunningly realistic visuals and intense battles as Campaign Mode, but with its own progression system, separate save data, and the thrill of fighting alongside ACE Pilots around the world and against foes regardless of their platform, with cross-play functionality. Developed by Bandai Namco Aces Inc., the long-anticipated sequel will take to the skies with early access available for Deluxe Edition holders on September 28, 2026, and launch for all players on October 2 for PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam®. For more information, visit www.bandainamcoent.com/games/ace-combat-8.
Watch the all-new ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE “Online 101” trailer here:
Players enter online mode in ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE as a mercenary pilot, with a customizable avatar that they can continue to personalize with unlocked rewards and cosmetic items. Once outfitted, they enter an interactive Air Base that acts as online lobby, where they can meet and chat with pilots worldwide. The game features two main online multiplayer modes. Co-Op Assault mode is focused on PvE combat, where two teams of four players compete for high score in missions that feature a variety of enemies and objectives. Co-Op Warfare is the game’s PvPvE mode, pitting two teams of four against each other, along with NPC units. You can enjoy strategic gameplay centered around “Threat Level” and “Aces.” The team with the highest total score at the end wins and earns more rewards.
As players progress in online mode, two additional special emergency missions will appear for a limited time. Scramble missions promise pulse-pounding dogfights, where a team of 4 players take on a formidable NPC rival air squad. Emergency Sortie missions deliver a challenging treat to new and returning players, with eight pilots taking on iconic colossal weapons from the series and, for some, reliving legendary ACE COMBAT boss fights. Limited time PvP events will also make an appearance in ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE online mode, including both 4v4 team and 8-player deathmatch.
The Air Base lobby is a big part of the experience in ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE online mode, where players can matchmake and launch sorties or participate in military training mode with up to four players. They can also just hang out to interact with pilots worldwide via chat, play classic Bandai Namco arcade games in the virtual arcade, or play the Jukebox to hear memorable soundtracks from prior ACE COMBAT games. There is also a supply shop as well as the ACE COMBAT STORE, where players can use in-game currency earned through missions to purchase aircraft, cosmetics for customization, or special in-game boosts and other items. As players progress, they will also unlock gates that take them to other Air Bases that act as online mode lobbies. For ACE PASS holders, playing online mode counts towards their progress.
