Details for Ace Combat 8's Online Mode have been revealed. In "ACE COMBAT ONLINE," players will assume the role of mercenary pilots, gathering in an online lobby set within an air force base alongside pilots from around the world to enjoy cooperative combat and competitive battles!
※ Please note that progress and save data cannot be shared between Online Mode and Campaign Mode.
In terms of game modes, besides the classic PvP Death Match, this title supports various other modes and multiplayer missions for up to eight players. For example, Co-Op Assault involves two teams competing for kill points, while Co-Op Warfare is a PvPvE mode where players must contend with both enemy players and AI opponents.
After participating in multiple missions, players may also receive SCRAMBLE and EMERGENCY SORTIE missions, which appear as urgent tasks. These allow four-player teams to take on large aircraft, or eight-player teams to battle giant weapons or raid large bases. Content for these modes will be gradually added through updates. The developers have even hinted at the possibility of seeing bosses from previous titles make an appearance.
Additionally, both aircraft and players in Online Mode have further leveling elements. Frequent sorties allow for leveling up, unlocking more special abilities and custom liveries.
This time, the game features a meticulously designed lobby styled after an air force base, allowing players to interact with others using their customized characters. It even includes arcade machines to kill time and the essential "ACE PASS" battle pass for long-term engagement, enabling players to earn unique limited-edition aircraft and liveries through continued play or purchases. Compared to the previous game's basic online system, it's clear that there is a serious ambition for long-term operation here, which may well attract more players to stick around for the long haul.
The lobby system allows players to freely interact with others.
These are the currently available modes, showing a clear emphasis on cooperative gameplay.
Emergency missions will provide notifications, but unfortunately, we couldn't participate in them during this trial.
Aircraft can be upgraded here, so lower-tier models might also become very powerful.
Everyone is familiar with the PASS system, and its inclusion clearly indicates plans for long-term operation.
※ All mini-games in Online Mode will be available to play for free upon official release.
※ The "Aircraft Enhancement Item Set" in the store will be obtainable by progressing through the game upon official release.
