The military flight simulator Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve has drawn broadly positive coverage from critics, who singled out its aerial set-pieces, music, and an engaging narrative for praise.
Review aggregator scores
- 89 points — Opencritic, with a 100% recommendation rate from reviewers (based on 29 reviews).
- 88 points — Metacritic, PlayStation 5 version (based on 33 reviews).
- 84 points — Metacritic, PC version (based on 16 reviews).
For context, Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown averaged 86 on Metacritic. Among this year’s releases, Ace Combat 8’s score is comparable to Resident Evil Requiem (89 points), Mewgenics (88 points), and 007 First Light (87 points).
What critics said
- The author at GameSpot described Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve as “absurd” — and presented that quality as a virtue. Their review notes the game continues the storyline from the seventh installment and emphasizes dynamic aerial combat. GameSpot also highlighted the multiplayer’s breadth of modes but warned it includes a battle pass and other monetization that could allow players to purchase advantages in online play.
- IGN applauded non-combat segments and the visual polish, citing details such as raindrops on the cockpit and sunlit clouds. IGN judged the dogfights to be the best in the series and called the story relevant and emotional, revealing character through scenes outside aircraft and radio exchanges.
- GamesRadar compared the narrative’s pull to Metal Gear-style storytelling, calling it similarly compelling. Their reviewer noted the campaign can feel “slow” at first given its length, but argued it builds momentum so that each mission delivers “intense gameplay” worth replaying.
Trailer and setting
A new five-minute trailer offers a guided look at the game’s world and systems. In the conflict shown, the Republic of Sotoa treacherously invades the Federation of Central Yusia (FCU), employing orbital strikes; reclaiming native lands becomes the player’s central objective. The trailer also showcases Ace Combat Online, where players can explore an airbase and customize their characters.
Release and related media
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is scheduled for release on October 2 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series; owners of the Deluxe Edition will gain early access on September 29. A live-action miniseries serving as a prologue is being released alongside the game, with the final episode arriving on launch day.
- Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve received the first episode of a miniseries with a star cast and Russian subtitles.
- The miniseries with the prologue of Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve received the second episode about a surgeon.
- The third episode of the miniseries for Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve showed “Attack Day”.