For fans of arcade-style aerial combat, Project Wingman presents an appealing alternative to pricier titles like Ace Combat 8, currently available on Steam for $12.50 during a sale.
Project Wingman originated as a passion project, evolving from a developer's portfolio piece into a successful Kickstarter campaign that exceeded its funding goals. The game launched on Steam in December 2020 and is a clear homage to the Ace Combat series, amplifying its signature missile-heavy action and over-the-top aerial engagements.
Beyond its core combat, Project Wingman features a roguelike Conquest Mode. In this mode, players engage in territorial battles against enemy squadrons and use in-game earnings to build and manage their own air fleets. Crucially, the game offers robust HOTAS (Hands-On Throttle And Stick) compatibility and native VR support, features that were notably absent or problematic in some recent high-profile releases.
The game has garnered significant praise, holding an "Overwhelmingly Positive" rating on Steam, with 93% of over 22,000 reviews being favorable. While a 2020 review from PC Gamer noted a desire for a more hardcore flight simulation experience, it acknowledged Project Wingman as a strong contender for those seeking accessible and engaging jet combat.
Project Wingman is available on Steam for $12.50 during its current sale.