Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is set to significantly expand its multiplayer offerings, introducing a variety of new mission types and a large-scale social lobby. The game's multiplayer suite will feature co-op and versus missions, extensive aircraft customization, and an online lobby designed to host up to 100 players simultaneously.
Producer Manabu Shimomoto explained that the inclusion of a robust multiplayer experience is a direct response to community feedback following Ace Combat 7, with the aim of providing a dedicated space for fans to connect. The game is also designed to appeal to a broad player base, accommodating both cooperative and competitive playstyles.
New Mission Types
The multiplayer component of Wings of Theve is structured around three primary mission categories: Main Missions, Emergency Missions, and Event Missions. Main Missions are consistently available and offer rewards that scale with player rank. Emergency Missions are special, time-limited challenges, while Event Missions are regular, time-limited events featuring specific aircraft and roles.
Within Main Missions, players will find Co-op Assault, a 4v4 mode focused on achieving the highest score. More notably, Co-op Warfare is a PvPvE mode where two teams of four engage with air, sea, and land units. This mode incorporates a "Threat Level" system, inspired by MOBAs, where defeating NPC enemies increases the Threat Level and opens up strategic opportunities. Shimomoto highlighted that this design aims to ensure various aircraft roles and playstyles can contribute meaningfully to the team's success.
Emergency Missions include Scramble, a 4v4 dogfight against NPC squadrons, and Emergency Sortie, an eight-player cooperative mode designed to take down formidable superweapons. These modes will not take place in Ace Combat's traditional Strangereal setting to accommodate the narrative.
Event Missions will house dedicated player-versus-player content, including 4v4 team deathmatch and an eight-player deathmatch mode, with wins contributing to player rankings. The core mechanics will mirror the campaign, ensuring a smoother transition for players moving between single-player and multiplayer, though weapon usage may differ. For instance, the "4AAM" special weapon, designed for multi-target engagement in the campaign, can be used to focus fire on a single opponent in multiplayer for rapid attacks.
The 100-Player Lobby
A significant feature of Ace Combat 8's multiplayer is its 100-player lobby, envisioned by Series Brand Director Kazutoki Kono as an "air force base" where players can gather and socialize. The development team aimed to create an environment akin to attending an air show with friends, complete with aerial displays from fighter jets within the lobby.
Players will be able to customize their avatars, form squadrons, and communicate through text chat, stickers, and emojis, facilitating interaction across language barriers. The lobby is also designed as a space for skill development, with features allowing up to four players to train together, enabling beginners to practice with more experienced pilots or other new players. This emphasis on community and accessibility aims to make the multiplayer experience welcoming for all.
Progression in Ace Combat 8's multiplayer will involve leveling up and earning rewards that can be used to acquire new fighters and upgrade existing aircraft. The game will also feature both paid and free battle passes.