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If you want another story-driven Ace Combat campaign, start with Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown. If you want a separate, more PC-focused take on arcade dogfighting—with Conquest Mode, HOTAS support and native VR—consider Project Wingman. Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve launched on October 2, 2026, so these are alternatives for a different campaign or style of play, not substitutes you need because the new game is unavailable.
At a glance: which game fits what you want?
| Game | Best fit | Platforms established by the cited source | Standout details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown | Another Ace Combat story campaign in the same fictional universe | PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Steam and Nintendo Switch, according to Bandai Namco’s series catalog | Its story centers on the conflict between Osea and Erusea. The catalog also highlights clouds, scenery and squadron drama. |
| Project Wingman | A distinct, Ace Combat-inspired alternative, especially for PC players interested in flight hardware or VR | PC-focused in the cited PC Gamer coverage; check the current store listing for supported platforms | PC Gamer reports intense missile-heavy air combat, Conquest Mode, HOTAS compatibility and native VR support. |
The comparison is about what the available sources establish, not a claim that either game matches Ace Combat 8 feature for feature. In particular, the cited material does not establish current multiplayer parity, player populations or ongoing online support for the two alternatives.
![PS4 ACE COMBAT 7: SKIES UNKNOWN (US) [video game]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/510WZEHzcJL._SL160_.jpg)
Choose Ace Combat 7 for another campaign in Strangereal
Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown is the most direct choice if you want the franchise’s setting, tone and squadron-focused storytelling. Bandai Namco’s series catalog lists its release date as January 17, 2019, and places the story in Strangereal, where Osea and Erusea are at war.
The catalog lists versions for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Steam and Nintendo Switch. Availability and edition details can vary by platform and store, so check the listing for the system you use before buying. The cited catalog information does not establish that Ace Combat 7 has the same performance or the same online features as Ace Combat 8.
#1 Best Overall
- ACE COMBAT 8 DELIVERS HIGH-OCTANE AERIAL ACTION! Step into the cockpit and take flight as an elite pilot across stunning skies. Enter intense dogfights, eliminate threats, and rise through gripping missions to earn your wings. The game is developed by PROJECT ACES, the acclaimed team behind the franchise.
- AERIAL WARFARE IN LIVING SKIES. Campaign Mode showcases stunning visuals with dynamic multi-layered cloudscapes that capture the majesty of living skies. Feel the rush of a fast-paced arcade-style gameplay and deploy powerful weapons to dominate the battlefield.
- A VISCERAL JOURNEY FROM COCKPIT TO GROUND. Beyond the chaos in the air, breathtaking first-person scenes reveal your pilot’s story through breathtaking cinematics. Experience the pressure of command, the weight of decisions, and the bonds forged in battle. Between missions, bond with your squad members, rise to meet adversity, and prove yourself as a true ace.
Choose Project Wingman for a different arcade-flight take
Project Wingman is a separate game rather than another entry in the Ace Combat series. PC Gamer describes it as an Ace Combat-inspired alternative, with a more intense approach to missile-heavy air combat. Its Conquest Mode adds a different kind of progression: fight for territory and build an air fleet.
PC Gamer also reports HOTAS compatibility and native VR support. Those features may appeal if you want to use a flight stick or play in VR, but a HOTAS setup is not presented as a requirement. The coverage is editorial reporting, not a guarantee that every device or configuration will work. Check the current store information for platform support and hardware details before purchasing.
Rank #2
- Magnetic contactless sensors provide smooth, accurate input and long‑lasting durability
- Independent throttle & brake levers offer fast, intuitive control for rapid speed adjustments during combat
- Ambidextrous, symmetrical design
- Dedicated High‑G Mode button for instantly trigger High-G turns
- Officially Licensed by Bandai Namco Entertainment and SONY
How they compare with Ace Combat 8
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is available worldwide on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC via Steam. Bandai Namco describes it as an arcade-inspired flight-shooting game with a story campaign, real-world fighter aircraft, cinematic scenes and weather that affects play. Its fictional Strangereal story follows the Wings of Theve and Joker Flight as the Federation of Central Usea fights to reclaim its homeland from the Republic of Sotoa.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Its online offering is a separate part of the game, with its own progression and saved data. The publisher says online play supports cross-play and uses an Air Base hub that can hold up to 100 players. Announced modes include Co-Op Assault, a PvE high-score mode, and Co-Op Warfare, a PvPvE mode with two teams of four alongside NPC units.
Rank #3
- TAKE FLIGHT AS AN ELITE ACE — Step into the cockpit and soar through thrilling missions, intense dogfights, and high-stakes aerial combat developed by PROJECT ACES.
- AERIAL WARFARE IN LIVING SKIES — Experience stunning visuals featuring dynamic multi-layered cloudscapes, realistic weather conditions, and breathtaking skies that transform every battle.
- FAST-PACED ARCADE AIR COMBAT — Engage enemy aircraft, deploy powerful weapons, and dominate the battlefield with the signature high-speed gameplay the ACE COMBAT series is known for.
- A VISCERAL PILOT STORY — Experience dramatic first-person sequences, cinematic storytelling, squad relationships, and the pressures of command between missions.
- THE LARGEST ONLINE MODE IN SERIES HISTORY — Explore the franchise's first online lobby, customize your avatar, and sortie into online missions with pilots worldwide.
That makes Ace Combat 8 the clear choice if the specific draw is its current cross-play and co-op or PvPvE offering. The sources used for this comparison do not establish whether Ace Combat 7 or Project Wingman currently offers comparable multiplayer, how active their online communities are, or what support they receive now. Check current game and store information if online play is a deciding factor.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Unreal Engine 4 Technologies - Breathtaking clouds coupled with highly detailed aircraft and photorealistic scenery make this the most engaging Ace Combat to date.
- Dynamic Weather - Witness the sudden changes during your flight and strive to fight the environmental conditions to take advantage over your enemy.
- Return To Strange Real-World - The alternative Ace Combat universe is composed of real-world current and near-future weapons, but with a history steeped in Ace Combat lore.
Check before you buy
- Match the platform. Bandai Namco’s catalog lists Ace Combat 7 on PS4, Xbox One, Steam and Switch. The cited information for Project Wingman is PC-focused, so confirm its current platform listing for your device.
- Check the current price and edition. Store prices and availability change; no current price is established here.
- Verify online details. Do not assume that multiplayer modes, cross-play or active online support carry over from Ace Combat 8 to either comparison game.
- Confirm hardware support for your setup. HOTAS and VR support are reported for Project Wingman, but compatibility can depend on the specific hardware and configuration.
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.
