Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about Ace Combat.
What is the Ace Combat video game series?
Ace Combat is a long-running franchise of fictional aerial combat simulators developed by Bandai Namco. Players pilot advanced fighter jets in dramatic, story-driven campaigns set within an alternate history world known as Strangereal.
Where should a newcomer start playing the series?
Newcomers are generally advised to begin with Ace Combat 5: The Unsung War or Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War for their accessible gameplay and strong narratives. Alternatively, Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown offers modern graphics while remaining faithful to the classic formula.
Who is the most iconic character in the series?
The most famous figure is Kyle 'Zero' Bannerman, also known as the 'White Death,' a legendary ace from the Belkan War who appears across multiple titles. His mysterious backstory and unmatched skill have made him a central legend within the Strangereal universe.
What distinguishes Ace Combat from real-world flight simulators?
Unlike realistic sims that prioritize physics accuracy, Ace Combat focuses on arcade-style fun with exaggerated maneuvers and energy conservation systems. This approach allows for high-speed dogfights and visually spectacular battles without requiring a pilot's license to play.
Does the series take place in our real world?
No, the games are set primarily in Strangereal, an alternate Earth with different geography, nations, and political conflicts. While it mimics real-world military technology, the timeline and events diverge significantly from actual history.
What is the significance of 'The Great War' or the Belkan War?
These conflicts serve as the foundational lore for many entries in the series, explaining the origins of advanced technologies like Osean superweapons. They provide a dramatic backdrop that connects various sequels and spin-offs through shared history and recurring characters.
Are there any real-world military aircraft featured in the games?
Yes, while most jets are fictionalized versions with unique names, they are heavily inspired by real-world counterparts like the F-15, Su-27, and Eurofighter Typhoon. The developers often tweak performance stats to ensure balanced gameplay rather than strict realism.
What is a 'Special Mission' in Ace Combat?
Special Missions are optional challenges that allow players to pilot rare or legendary aircraft not available in the main story campaign. These missions often feature unique objectives and higher difficulty levels, rewarding skilled pilots with exclusive unlocks.
How does the series handle its storytelling?
The narrative is delivered through a mix of cutscenes, radio chatter during combat, and post-mission debriefings that reveal political intrigue and personal drama. This style creates an emotional connection to the pilots while maintaining a fast-paced action focus.
Is there a connection between Ace Combat games and real-world events?
While the series occasionally references real-world geopolitical tensions, it avoids direct depictions of actual historical wars like World War II or the Gulf War. Instead, it uses fictionalized analogies to explore themes of pacifism, technological arms races, and the human cost of conflict.