Bandai Namco has revealed Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve’s multiplayer in a new “Online 101” trailer.
The online mode includes cross-play, separate progression, its own save data, a customizable mercenary pilot avatar, and an Air Base lobby that can host up to 100 players.
Two Main Online Modes
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve will feature two main multiplayer modes.
Co-Op Assault focuses on PvE combat, with two teams of four players competing for a high score across missions with different enemies and objectives.
Co-Op Warfare adds PvPvE combat, placing two teams of four against each other while NPC units enter the fight. The mode also uses Threat Level and Aces systems, with the highest-scoring team earning the win and better rewards.
Emergency Missions and PvP Events
Players will also see limited-time emergency missions as they progress online.
Scramble missions send a team of four against a powerful NPC rival air squad. Emergency Sortie missions bring eight pilots together against colossal weapons from the series, including boss fights made for returning fans.
Limited-time PvP events will also appear, including 4v4 team battles and eight-player deathmatch.
The Air Base Acts as a Social Hub
The Air Base works as the main online lobby.
Players can matchmake, launch sorties, take part in military training with up to four players, chat with other pilots, play classic Bandai Namco arcade games, or use the Jukebox to listen to past Ace Combat music.
The lobby also includes a supply shop and the Ace Combat Store, where players can spend in-game currency on aircraft, cosmetics, boosts, and other items. Progression can also open gates to other Air Bases.
Launching in October
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve launches October 2, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam.
Deluxe Edition holders can start playing early on September 28. Online play will also count toward ACE PASS progress.
