How Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve uses first-person to tell a more personal story

The story follows the desperate defense of the Federation of Central Usea (FCU) against invading Sotoan forces. A major shift in the experience is the protagonist's role: you play as a silent pilot who, despite not speaking, serves as a central figure in the narrative. The journey begins with your survival in a life raft, leading to your arrival aboard the Endurance, one of the FCU's last remaining aircraft carriers.

Initially, you serve as the navigator for Jan «Rex» Cope, the legendary ace known as Wings of Theve. However, the reality of the war is far from the social media persona; Cope's role is largely to act as a propaganda tool, often instructed to avoid direct combat. Following Cope's death in action, you must secretly assume his call sign, stepping into the role of the new Wings of Theve to bolster FCU morale and combat efforts.

First-person perspective and immersion

Breaking from the cinematic cutscenes of past titles, Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve will primarily present story moments from a first-person perspective. This places you directly in the room or on the deck with other characters, making the narrative feel lived rather than just observed. The use of haptic feedback on the PlayStation 5 DualSense controller is intended to heighten this immersion during both intense battles and quiet character moments.

While the protagonist remains a silent lead, players can influence their characterization through subtle interactions:

• Answering yes-or-no questions using the DualSense D-Pad;
• Looking around the environment with the right analog stick;
• Responding to prompts via the Triangle or Square buttons.

These minor choices allow you to shape your character's persona and influence how the members of your squadron, Joker Flight, perceive your leadership.

Building bonds with Joker Flight

The game places a heavy emphasis on the characters within Joker Flight. You will spend significant time with them during briefings, downtime, and through constant radio chatter during missions. This focus aims to make the war feel personal, as you become invested in the lives of the pilots flying alongside you.

Players can manage their squadron using the D-Pad, issuing orders to engage targets, return to formation, or provide cover. Small, non-consequential decisions—such as deciding whether to allow your wingman Coster to assist a famous rock band he admires—help foster a sense of camaraderie and personal connection within the squad.

Radio communication is also vital for atmosphere. The sound design is crafted to convey the chaos of war, such as hearing the frantic calls of ground troops during an ambush. While these choices may not alter the ultimate outcome of the war, they reinforce the impact of your actions as the Wings of Theve. Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve is scheduled for release on PlayStation 5 on October 2.