Ace Combat 8 Online Modes Detailed

Bandai Namco has revealed Ace Combat Online, a separate, live-service multiplayer component launching with Ace Combat 8. The suite of online modes includes cooperative and competitive battles, limited-time events, and a social hangout space for player avatars.

According to a new video from the official Ace Combat social accounts, Ace Combat Online will function as a companion to the main game. Producer Manabu Shimomoto told Eurogamer that the decision to create a digital lobby stemmed from fan feedback. He cited a desire to unite a previously fragmented global fanbase following the success of Ace Combat 7, which sold seven-and-a-half-million copies.

PvE and PvPvE Cooperative Modes

Two primary cooperative modes will be available at launch. Co-Op Assault pits two teams of four players against computer-controlled enemies in a race to earn points by clearing objectives. Co-Op Warfare introduces a PvPvE twist, where the same two teams of four compete for points while also being able to attack each other directly. In this mode, players are assisted by allied ground, air, and sea units. Eliminating enemies builds a threat level, which increases the points earned for your team and the rewards the opposing team receives for shooting you down.

The Social Hub and Limited-Time Events

The airforce base social hub allows player avatars to meet and interact between missions. This space features arcade machines with retro Bandai Namco titles like Pac-Man and a jukebox for playing classic Ace Combat soundtracks. It's just like Top Gun.

Emergency missions are limited-time events offering two special mission types. Scramble tasks a team of four with eliminating an NPC-controlled rival squad. Emergency Sortie is an eight-player raid against set-piece battles drawn from Ace Combat's history.

Additional competitive options include limited-time 4v4 team battles and eight-player free-for-all missions, which may employ various player restrictions for balance.

Progression and the Ace Pass

Playing Ace Combat Online earns experience levels that unlock new aircraft, special weapons, and aircraft parts for use in subsequent missions. Players can also customize their planes with abilities and cosmetics, which are unlocked through gameplay.

The service will include a seasonal battle pass called the Ace Pass, available in free and paid tiers. Items unlocked through the pass can be used in multiplayer matches. Each season will last two months, and any aircraft featured in a pass will be available for purchase after its season concludes. Bandai Namco aims for Ace Combat 8 to be a long-term success, with Shimomoto expressing a desire for the game to be played for a long time.

Ace Combat 8 and its Ace Combat Online component are in development for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.