Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve – Story trailer introduces the Joker Squadron

A new story trailer for Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve showcases the crew of the Joker Squadron and the aircraft carrier Endurance. Release date: October 2, 2026. Please arrive at the departure terminal on time.

Bandai Namco sets the stage with a story trailer for the crew you’ll be going to war with in Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve starting October 2, 2026. Take on the role of Commander and leader of the Joker Squadron, Jan Cope, who has been given the call sign “Wing of Theve”—actually the name of an ace pilot who never existed, but was invented solely to boost morale. Flying at your side are the level-headed former professor Baxter, the Yuktoban aerobatic pilot Tasha, and rock fan Coster as your reliable wingman. Joining them is Lieutenant Commander and Queen Squadron Leader Kate Evans, who always maintains her composure despite visible war scars.

The action game features fast-paced aerial combat in the series’ signature arcade style, complemented by compelling character moments between missions. Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve will be released for PC on October 2, 2026.

Ace Combat 8: Deluxe Edition with Advanced Access – All Content at a Glance

Can't wait until the October release? Play 3 days earlier with the Advanced Access included with the Deluxe Edition of Ace Combat 8. Pre-order the game on Gamesplanet today to get bonuses!

The Deluxe Edition of Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve includes the base game, a customizable cosmetic set, and a Premium Ace Pass Plus voucher. The highlight: three days of Early Access, or Advanced Access, as it is now correctly called. Advanced Access is expected to start on September 29, 2026, three days before the regular launch on October 2.

Anyone who pre-orders from Gamesplanet—whether the Standard or Deluxe Edition—will also receive pre-order bonuses: the playable F-14A Tomcat fighter jet and a free copy of Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War (Steam version). The latter is a PS2 classic from 2006 in which you play as the mercenary pilot “Cipher” in the fictional Belkan War of 1995—a prequel to Ace Combat 5 that still enjoys cult status in the community today. Both editions come with pre-order bonuses. Only the Deluxe Edition includes Advanced Access as a bonus.

Pre-order now and make sure you’re the first to take to the skies on September 29th!