Lore & Story Explanations

Explore the rich lore and detailed story explanations for Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve. Understand the conflict, characters, and world of the latest installment.

Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is an upcoming arcade combat flight shooter developed by Bandai Namco Aces and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment, set to release in 2026. The game is the 18th in the Ace Combat franchise and the ninth in the "Numbered Series." It will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Microsoft Windows via Steam.

The single-player campaign is set in 2029 in the Strangereal universe. Players assume the role of "Rex," a pilot in the Federation of Central Usea (FCU) navy during a conflict with the Republic of Sotoa. Initially serving as the weapon systems officer for the legendary FCU ace Jan "Rex" Cope, the "Wings of Theve," the player is forced to take on Cope's mantle after his death in action. Rex becomes the leader of Joker Squadron, operating from the carrier _Endurance_.

The game introduces the FCU and Sotoa as in-game factions for the first time. The FCU, previously only mentioned in ancillary material, was the core of the Independent State Allied Forces in Ace Combat 04. Sotoa, previously only appearing on the world map, is suffering from climate change-induced desertification and water shortages, leading to its invasion of the FCU. The conflict escalates as Rex and Joker Squadron defend the FCU against Sotoan forces, including the elite Shadow Squadron.

Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve will feature cross-platform multiplayer, including co-op modes, described as the largest in the series. Unlike its predecessor, it will not support virtual reality.