When you think of media all about high-flying jet combat, it’s pretty much just Top Gun and Ace Combat that come to mind. And it looks like the latter is going to take a page out of the former’s book, as Bandai Namco has announced a new live-action prequel series to Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve. You can see the first trailer below.
Hour Zero is a new short film that introduces newcomers to Ace Combat, and particularly the series’ worldview. Those not familiar with Ace Combat likely don’t know how complex and interconnected the series’ narrative and storytelling actually are, diving into complex themes about the nature of war. The short film stars Josh Holloway (Lost) and Brandon Routh (Superman Returns). Here’s the official story description from Bandai Namco.
“Three strangers survive the opening days of the Republic of Sotoa’s invasion of the Federation of Central Usea. Josh Holloway stars as a pilot with nowhere to land, Brandon Routh as a doctor who saved his enemy, and Tamlyn Tomita as a news anchor silenced for telling the truth. Told in reverse and grounded in the family lives of its three leads, their stories count down to the moment when their normal lives were shattered, and war began. Their story sets the stage for the narrative players will experience in the deep, engaging Campaign Mode in ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE.”
Ace Combat 8 is the latest mainline entry in the long-running franchise, focusing on delivering a highly cinematic experience and even tighter dogfighting controls. You can see some of our impressions of the game in our hands-on preview, where we say, “Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve provides some epic, fast-paced missions that range from defending bases from bomber runs to trying to take down a heavily armoured battleship that can take to the land.”
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve launches on October 2 for PS5, XBOX Series X|S, and PC. Deluxe Edition owners can get Early Access to the game starting on September 29.
