ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE is expanding the series’ multiplayer experience with its largest online offering yet. Bandai Namco Entertainment America has revealed an “Online 101” trailer detailing the sequel’s multiplayer modes, progression features, rewards, and new virtual Air Base, giving players a closer look at what awaits them beyond the single-player campaign.
The online component allows players to take on the role of customizable mercenary pilots and battle alongside players from around the world. It also supports cross-play, meaning pilots can compete together regardless of their platform. Importantly, multiplayer has its own progression system and separate save data, allowing the online experience to develop independently from the campaign.
Developed by Bandai Namco Aces Inc., ACE COMBAT 8 will launch on October 2, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. Deluxe Edition owners can begin playing through early access on September 28.
ACE COMBAT 8 Multiplayer Modes Explained
The new multiplayer system features two primary modes. Co-Op Assault is a PvE experience where two teams of four players work competitively toward high scores while tackling missions containing different enemies and objectives.
Co-Op Warfare adds PvPvE combat, putting two teams of four against one another while NPC forces also participate in the battle. Players must manage the battlefield’s “Threat Level” and hunt down “Aces,” with the team achieving the highest score earning victory and greater rewards.
Players who progress through online mode can also encounter temporary emergency missions. Scramble missions send four-player teams against powerful NPC air squads, while Emergency Sortie challenges eight pilots to battle enormous weapons inspired by memorable encounters from the franchise.
Limited-time PvP events will further diversify the multiplayer experience with 4v4 team battles and eight-player deathmatches.
A 100-Player Air Base Becomes the Multiplayer Hub
The new Air Base serves as more than a matchmaking menu. It can host up to 100 players, allowing pilots to communicate, customize their avatars, launch sorties, and access training activities.
Players can also visit a virtual arcade featuring classic Bandai Namco games or use the Jukebox to listen to music from previous ACE COMBAT titles. The Supply Shop and ACE COMBAT STORE provide aircraft, cosmetics, boosts, and other items purchased using currency earned through missions.
As players advance, additional Air Bases can be unlocked, creating new online hubs to explore. ACE PASS holders will also have online gameplay contribute toward their pass progression.
ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE launches October 2, 2026, with Deluxe Edition early access beginning September 28.
