Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Partly—but not as a confirmed feature film. Bandai Namco has announced HOUR ZERO, a four-part live-action prequel to ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE. The game’s producer and brand director said the short-film project was proposed after the game was already well into development. A feature-length Ace Combat movie, by contrast, has not been announced: actor Josh Holloway has expressed personal interest in that possibility, which is not a studio commitment.
What screen project is officially happening?
HOUR ZERO is a live-action prequel told in four installments, created to set up the story of ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE. Bandai Namco announced the series as a companion to the game, not as a theatrical feature. The publisher said the installments would begin September 15, 2026 and conclude ahead of the game’s October 2 launch. Those announced dates have passed, so check the official game page for current availability and details.
The distinction matters: a short prequel designed to lead into a game is not the same project as a standalone movie released in theaters or on a streaming service.
How did the team decide to make HOUR ZERO?
In an interview with CGMagazine, producer Manabu Shimomoto and brand director Kazutoki Kono said the short film was not part of the original plan. By the time Bandai Namco Entertainment US and creative collaborators proposed a live-action adaptation, the game was already well into development.
#1 Best Overall
- COMFORTABLE ERGONOMIC HOTAS DESIGN - Fly for hours without fatigue thanks to the wide hand rest and real size ergonomically shaped throttle control that keeps your hands in a natural position. Every flight sim session feels as immersive as sitting in an actual cockpit with your favorite flight simulator controller setup.
- FULLY PROGRAMMABLE FLIGHT CONTROLS - Customize all 12 action buttons and 5 axes to match your preferred flight sim setup, giving you instant command over every function in your joystick for flight simulator games, whether you are navigating civil aviation routes or engaging in intense military combat maneuvers across your favorite titles.
- DETACHABLE THROTTLE FOR FLEXIBLE SETUP - Separate the full size throttle from the joystick to create your ideal flight sim cockpit mount configuration, or keep them connected for a compact desktop arrangement, giving you the versatility to build the perfect hotas flight stick arrangement that suits your space and play style.
- PRECISION JOYSTICK WITH ADJUSTABLE RESISTANCE - Enjoy pinpoint accuracy with a high precision flight joystick featuring a resistance dial that lets you fine tune stick tension to your liking, plus dual rudder control via handle rotation or progressive tilting lever so your aerial maneuvers feel smooth and perfectly responsive every single flight.
- PLUG AND PLAY INSTANT TAKEOFF READY - Skip complicated configuration and start flying immediately with preconfigured controls, an exclusive preset button to swap profiles on the fly, and built-in memory that saves your custom programming even when the flight stick is disconnected, ensuring you are always ready for your next mission.
Kono said the team’s first question was whether the partners could deliver the project, asking, “Are you guys sure you can pull this off?” After the collaborators expressed confidence, the team agreed to proceed. Shimomoto and Kono summarized the timing this way: “Regarding the short film Hour Zero, it wasn’t something that was planned from the beginning.”
Why use live action before an interactive game?
Shimomoto described the game’s central aim as putting players in the cockpit emotionally as well as mechanically: “The core concept of the game is really to transport the player into the other side of the screen in complete immersion, where you feel like the ace pilot going on that journey.”
Rank #2
- REALISTIC FLIGHT SIMULATOR CONTROL - Experience true hands-on flying with a precision HOTAS joystick and throttle system designed for immersive flight simulator gameplay. Ideal for flight simulation.
- ERGONOMIC FLIGHT STICK DESIGN - Comfortable flight stick joystick with adjustable resistance, responsive trigger, hat switch, and multiple programmable buttons for smooth aircraft control during takeoff, landing, and combat maneuvers.
- DETACHABLE THROTTLE FOR VERSATILE SETUPS - Modular design allows the flight stick and throttle to be used together on a desk or separately on your lap, ideal for cockpit, desk, or casual flight simulator setups.
- PLUG & PLAY FOR PC & CONSOLE - Easy USB connection delivers instant compatibility with Windows PC and Xbox Series X|S. This flight simulator controller requires no complex setup and works seamlessly with most popular flight sim software.
- ADAPTED FOR ALL FLIGHT SIMULATION TYPES – Adjustable joystick resistance and ergonomically placed buttons deliver precise control across all aircraft categories. Ideal for commercial aviation, combat jets, and helicopters, making it perfect for both beginner pilots and seasoned flight sim enthusiasts.
He also said the team wanted an audiovisual introduction that could raise awareness of the franchise and bring in people beyond existing aviation and aircraft enthusiasts. A short prequel offers a way to introduce the world before players enter the game themselves.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →The creators pointed to Top Gun: Maverick as a touchpoint for the broad appeal of fighter-pilot stories. They said, “We are very thankful to Top Gun!” That is an explanation of the project’s audience context—not an indication that HOUR ZERO is connected to Top Gun or that a feature-film partnership exists.
Rank #3
- Military-grade Space and Flight Sim Precision. Customizable options including all the control surface options required to achieve the exact level of performance that aspiring combat pilots demand.System Requirements : Windows 11,10,8.1,7, 2x USB 2.0 Port
- New Mini Analog Stick Control Surfaces: Control pitch, roll, yaw, backwards, forwards, up, down, left and right as well as gimballed weapons that are controlled separately from the space craft
- RGB Backlighting: Many PC peripherals now feature RGB backlighting and the X-56 is no exception. Use the software to set the color of the lighting to match the rest of your gaming rig
- Ideal for VR: The X-56 places controls perfectly under your fingers where subtle distinctions in button feel and shape help you navigate the control set with ease
- Fully Featured HOTAS: Accurate 16-bit aileron and elevator axis with hall-effect sensors. Adjustable Stick Force via Advanced 4-Spring System. Twin Throttles with Friction Adjuster and Throttle Lock
Is an Ace Combat feature film officially happening?
No feature-length Ace Combat movie is established as officially in development in the cited coverage. A report by IGN attributes interest in the possibility of a feature to HOUR ZERO actor Josh Holloway. That is Holloway’s personal interest, not a Bandai Namco announcement.
| Project | Status | Format | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| HOUR ZERO | Announced by Bandai Namco | Four-part live-action prequel | Sets up ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE |
| Feature-length Ace Combat film | Not announced; Holloway has expressed personal interest | Hypothetical feature film | Not established |
The sources do not establish a studio, director, production, financing, or release date for an Ace Combat feature.
Rank #4
- 【With Vibration Function】This flight stick is ONLY for PC/Computer and ONLY compatible with Windows 7/8/10/11 (Mac/Apple computers/Apple devices/PS3/PS4/PS5/Xbox One/Switch not supported).PXN2113 PRO gaming joystick for pc will never let you down with realistic fly experience. Compatible with many flight joystick pc games: World of Tanks,World of Warplanes,War Thunder,Assault Horizon,Microsoft Flight Simulator,X Plane 10,etc. Vibration Switch is at the bottom,please switch to“ON”.If less than 20%,you will almost not feel the vibration.Please set the vibration strength in the driver to 50% or higher for this joystick pc flight simulator.
- 【Immersive Fly Experience for Your Flying Dream】You can make the right moves with rapid fire trigger,4 axis controlling,8-Way hat switch and 12 programmable buttons of this computer joystick for gaming pc flight.Advanced software,Support various custom adjustment and keyboard mapping,enjoy exciting joystick flight simulator controls for pc games now! Not only a game, but also a dream of flying!
- 【FAQ】:Q1:Why doesn't it work on my pc/Xbox? A: It is ONLY for PC and Windows 7/8/10/11(Not for Mac/Apple devices/Xbox).Please turn on pc First and then connect with this joystick.If not,some pc may not identify it. Q2: How to install the driver? A: No need to install the driver and can play games directly.If you need driver,please find "Installation" section in manual or follow below steps: 1:Visit PXN official website→Support→Driver→Find PXN-2113PRO driver to download. 2:Extract the driver and install. 3:Plug joystick into PC USB port,pc will identify new hardware and install automatically. 4:Play games or set the joystick in driver.The drive can test and calibrate the pc flight joystick.
- 【Comfortable to Hold, Agile to Operate】This usb joystick for pc is with a solid and smooth feeling,very comfortable.Four power-grip suction cups at the bottom of this pc joystick for flight simulator pc games,they can fix firmly and easily when the table is smooth.Precise throttle control,Ergonomic design,Single hand control full function with this flight joystick for pc games.(Note:Force Feedback/Minecraft/Asphalt 8/Ace Combat 7 not supported).This Flight simulation pc controller with Friendly and Easy-to-Reach Customer Service.If any problem,please contact us directly(Contact Seller),Fengying will reply within 12 hours.
- 【Setup Guide for Microsoft Flight Simulator】For PXN 2113 flight sim joystick pc setup in Microsoft Flight Simulation,please refer to below images and follow below steps: Step 1: Launch the game and click"MENU.FLOWBAR_ OPTIONS",select“MENU.OPTIONS CONTROLS". Step 2: Except the keyboard and mouse mode, also have joystick mode in game.Please click“GENERIC USB JOYSTICK" to map the key. (Note:The joystick should be plugged into PC before this setting). Step 3: For function settings,take “INPUT.KEY_ _SWITCH_ CAMERA"as an example,scroll down to select“Select an input",click No.12 button,finally click“VALIDATE”to save.
What is ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE?
ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE is the mainline game that HOUR ZERO leads into. Bandai Namco announced it for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. The publisher describes a campaign about identity and duty, with players taking the role of an ace pilot fighting for their homeland. Bandai Namco Aces Inc. is the developer, and the publisher described it as the first mainline Ace Combat entry in seven years.
Bandai Namco’s June 2026 announcement listed October 2, 2026 as the standard launch date and September 29 as early access for Deluxe Edition holders. These are past dates; consult the official product page rather than assuming current availability or preorder status.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- PINPOINT HALL EFFECT PRECISION - Experience drift free accuracy that never degrades over time thanks to Thrustmaster's patented H.E.A.R.T magnetic sensor technology, giving you the reliable and consistent control you need for every flight simulator joystick session, from delicate landings to intense dogfights, so your inputs always translate perfectly into the cockpit.
- FULLY AMBIDEXTROUS ERGONOMIC DESIGN - Fly comfortably whether you are left handed or right handed with three removable and swappable components that let you tailor this pc joystick to your dominant hand, ensuring hours of fatigue free flying with a grip that feels custom built just for you, no matter which flight sim controller setup you prefer.
- 16 BUTTONS PLUS HAT SWITCH - Command every function at your fingertips with 16 action buttons featuring braille style physical identification so you never need to look away from the screen, plus an 8 way point of view hat switch that gives you instant situational awareness in any flight simulator controller scenario you encounter.
- FOUR INDEPENDENT AXES WITH RUDDER - Take full control of pitch, roll, yaw, and throttle using four independent axes including a built in twist rudder, eliminating the need for separate pedals and giving you a complete experience that handles every maneuver in your favorite joystick for flight simulator titles with smooth responsiveness.
- CUSTOMIZABLE PROFILES WITH TARGET SOFTWARE - Load or create detailed button mapping profiles for every game in your library using Thrustmaster's powerful T.A.R.G.E.T programming software, so your flight stick is always perfectly configured whether you are exploring space sims, combat missions, or civilian aviation with fully personalized controls.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
