Project Aces
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Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War is Finally Playable Standalone on Steam for Ace Combat 8 Pre-Orders
Project Aces has made Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War available as a standalone title on Steam, exclusively for those who pre-ordered Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve. While current owners will see the standalone version appear in their library with compatible save data and unlocked achievements, those who did not pre-order the sequel cannot access it. Ace Combat 8 itself has achieved significant success, selling over one million copies and receiving critical acclaim.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve Crosses 1 Million Sales, Becomes Fastest Selling Game in the Series
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve has achieved over 1 million sales worldwide, making it the fastest-selling game in the series. Despite some launch issues on PC, the game has received critical praise and strong player ratings, with the development team thanking players and promising continued updates.
ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE Review | TheXboxHub
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve offers a thrilling, cinematic flight combat experience that feels like starring in a Top Gun movie. While the overarching war narrative can be confusing, the engaging gameplay, strong character writing, and stunning visuals powered by Unreal Engine make it a highly entertaining title. The game provides both arcade and simulation-focused options, with varied missions and a well-executed multiplayer component.
15 New Games Launching in October 2026
October 2026 is set to be a massive month for game releases, featuring 15 new titles across various genres and platforms. Highlights include anticipated sequels like Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve and Gears of War: E-Day, alongside new entries in established franchises such as Dragon's Dogma 2: Dark Arisen and Final Fantasy Resonance. The month also offers a diverse range of experiences from puzzle adventures like Order of the Sinking Star to simulation titles like Planet Zoo 2 and action-packed shooters like Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2.
Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War Could Become a Standalone Title on Steam After All
Project Aces is exploring the possibility of releasing Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War as a standalone title on Steam, following discussions with platform partners. This comes after initial marketing suggested it would be a free bonus for purchasing Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve, but it was later bundled. The developer is still reviewing implementation details and distribution timing, acknowledging that it may not ultimately be realized due to licensing and platform considerations.
Bandai Namco’s New PS5 Flight Combat Game Is Out Today on PlayStation Store
Bandai Namco Entertainment has launched Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and PC. Developed by Project Aces, the flight simulation game features high-octane aerial action, intense dogfights, and a campaign mode with a layered cloud system. The Standard Edition includes Ace Combat 8 and a playable F-14A aircraft, while the Deluxe Edition offers additional cosmetic items and early access.
The Biggest New Game Releases Of October 2026
October 2026 is set to be a massive month for game releases, with numerous titles launching before the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto 6. The month features a diverse lineup including remasters like Dynasty Warriors 3, new entries in established franchises like Ace Combat 8 and Castlevania: Belmont's Curse, and promising new IPs such as Hellraiser: Revival and Phantom Blade Zero. The releases span across PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch, offering something for every player.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve Studio Apologizes for PC Issues, Working on Fixes
The developers of Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve have apologized for significant technical issues affecting the PC version, including crashes and poor flight-stick integration, which have led to a 'Mostly Positive' rating on Steam. While the PlayStation 5 version is praised for its gameplay and story, the studio is actively working on fixes for the PC version. Players are advised to update drivers and check system requirements as temporary measures.
Why Ace Combat 8 Could Be One of 2026’s Standout Games
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve aims to deliver a blockbuster aviation experience, focusing on the fantasy of being an ace pilot rather than realistic simulation. Developed by Project Aces using Unreal Engine 5 and proprietary tech, the game promises a photorealistic sky, satisfying aerial combat, and a strong narrative emphasis, enhanced by a live-action prequel series to build awareness and immersion.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve Launch Trailer Hypes Early Access With High-Octane Aerial Battles
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is launching for Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC on October 2nd, with Deluxe Edition owners gaining early access today. The launch trailer showcases high-octane aerial battles, a rocking soundtrack, and hints at the game's narrative conflict. Pre-ordering either edition includes a modern version of Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War.
How Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve Brings High Flying Drama to XBOX Series X|S
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is set to launch on October 2 for Xbox Series X|S, offering a deep dive into aerial combat with enhanced aircraft customization and a compelling storyline. The game features stunning visuals, over 30 aircraft, and a robust multiplayer mode, aiming to improve upon its predecessors.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve – Soaring to new heights
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve offers an expansive campaign with thrilling aerial combat and a compelling narrative, building upon the series' strengths. While it introduces new features like first-person cutscenes and improved tutorials, the larger scale leads to occasional issues with mission variety and optimization, particularly in its experimental multiplayer mode. Despite these growing pains, the game delivers spectacular set pieces, gorgeous visuals, and an outstanding soundtrack, making it a fantastic entry for both newcomers and long-time fans.
Next Week on XBOX: New Games for September 28 to October 2
This weekly feature highlights new games coming to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC between September 28 and October 2. Titles include Minecraft Dungeons II, Gears of War: E-Day, Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve, and a remastered The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, among many others across various genres.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve review
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is a masterpiece of arcade flight action, blending intense aerial combat with compelling anime melodrama. The game features refined controls, a dynamic weather engine, and a strong narrative with memorable characters and superweapon encounters. Its multiplayer mode offers both PvP and PvE, with returning boss battles.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve – 15 Biggest Details Revealed So Far
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is launching on October 2nd for Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC, featuring a new story set in Strangereal and introducing first-person cutscenes. The game promises the largest campaign content in the series, over 30 aircraft at launch, and enhanced multiplayer modes including PvE and PvP options. Developed on Unreal Engine 5, it also boasts improved cloudscapes and PC system requirements significantly higher than its predecessor.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve Includes a Season Pass, Classic Namco Titles in Online Lobbies
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve will feature a multiplayer lobby system with classic Namco titles like Pac-Man and a two-month seasonal pass that includes DLC aircraft. Pre-ordering the game for Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC will grant players Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War. The game launches October 2nd.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve’s Online Modes Include Co-op, PvP and 8-Player Limited-Time Sorties
Project Aces revealed details about the online modes for Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve, including Co-op Assault, Co-op Warfare, and limited-time Scramble and Emergency Sortie missions. The game will feature 4v4 co-op and PvP modes, as well as eight-player battles against Colossal Weapons. Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve launches on October 2nd for Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC.
PlayStation 5 Action Game Trailer Shows Incredible Attention to Detail, Impressive Graphics
A new trailer for the PlayStation 5 action game Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve has been released, showcasing incredible graphics and attention to detail. The game, developed by Project Aces, is set to launch on October 2, 2026, and will feature intense aerial combat, various aircraft, and multiple game modes. Pre-orders are available through Bandai Namco Entertainment in several editions, with bonuses including early access and exclusive content.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve’s Deft Attention to Detail in Aircraft Design Showcased in New Video
A new video for Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve, titled "The Art of Aircraft," showcases the detailed interior and exterior designs of various planes featured in the game, including the F-22A Raptor, Gripen E, and Su-35S Flanker-E. Developed using a custom in-house engine built on Unreal Engine 5, the game will launch on October 2nd for Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve Took “6, Maybe 7 Years” to Develop, Says Director
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve has been in development for six to seven years, according to brand director Kazutoki Kono. The game aims to be a culmination of the franchise's 30-year history, reintroducing lost mechanics and serving as a strong entry point for new players. It is set to launch on October 2nd for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.