Bandai Namco Entertainment’s 2019 combat flight simulation game is called Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown[a]. The game was released for Windows in February 2019 and for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One in January 2019. It is the first new game in the Ace Combat series since Ace Combat Infinity in 2014. In July 2024, a Nintendo Switch port is scheduled for release.
The story of Ace Combat 7 takes place during a war between Osea and Erusea and marks the return of the series to its original Strangereal setting. It centers on the exploits of “Trigger,” a fighter pilot who is sent to a prison squadron after being accused of murder.
With missions designed for the PlayStation VR headset and multiple downloadable content packs with additional missions and content, the game supports virtual reality. With more than five million copies sold on all platforms by November 2023, Ace Combat 7 became the best-selling game in the series after earning mostly favorable reviews from critics.
Multiplayer
Regardless of how far they get in the single-player campaign, the player can opt to play in multiplayer mode. The Team Deathmatch and Battle Royale modes are included in the multiplayer mode. In both PvP modes, players must shoot down enemy aircraft to win points against the ticking clock.
The difference between the two modes is that Battle Royale is a free-for-all mode, while Team Deathmatch consists of two teams of four players each.
More points are awarded for taking out high-scoring players and players flying better aircraft than for taking out low-tier or underperforming players. A player’s aircraft will respawn after a short while if it is destroyed. The team or individual with the highest score at the end of the allotted time is deemed the winner.
Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown platforms and crossplay
This time around, Ace Combat 7 will only be available on the Switch. However, if you don’t own Nintendo’s handheld, don’t worry. Any platform will allow you to participate in the action—the game was first released in 2019 for the PS4, Xbox One, and PC. As of yet, there is no information regarding a crossplay feature. Therefore, it’s unlikely that you will be able to target a friend who is playing on a different console if that is your goal.
How to play Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown
One of the most accurate military flight simulators available is Ace Combat 7. You’ll engage in exhilarating aerial combat over cities, mountains, and other interesting terrain. Not only will other fighters be pursuing you, but unmanned drones, battleships, and missile silos will also be attempting to destroy you.
But why is it so realistic-looking? Each aircraft you take off in has its distinct characteristics, weapon load-outs, and handling. Along with managing altitude and the aerodynamics of the object you’re piloting, you’ll also have to deal with the effects of G-force (try not to pass out). There are many things to consider.
The variety of the aircraft and locations matches the variety of your objectives. You may be asked to lead a group of bombers to their intended target without incident. On occasion, however, you will be conducting covert recon missions to learn the enemy’s plans. Just be sure to make a sincere effort to remain invisible.
However, keep a watch on the weather report. Thick fog, snow, rain, and lightning are examples of dynamic conditions that can significantly affect your jet’s handling. Additionally, you won’t have very good vision. So, in the heat of battle, try not to let it impair your judgment.
And you’re almost guaranteed to be hit at some point when you’re being shot at. At this point, the real damage system starts to work. You will not be able to turn as well if you take a heat-seeking missile to the wing. A blow to the engine, however, will cause you to slow down significantly. That’s a major problem when swerving and dodging your way out of trouble are crucial!
What type of planes can you fly in Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown?
Fighter jets: The main weapon in Ace Combat’s armory. They are incredibly fast and designed for aerial combat.
Electronic warfare aircraft: They can interfere with enemy radar systems and messages by using electronic devices. Say, “Watt!”
Attack aircraft: These aircraft, equipped with rocking rockets, are meant to destroy ground targets from the air, such as trucks, artillery, and tanks.
Multirole fighters: They are all-rounders who are skilled in dogfights and attacking enemy soldiers and vehicles on the ground. That’s exactly what they sound like.
Bombers: Bombs are loaded into these heavy aircraft to the maximum capacity. They can also flatten any base. However, they move slowly, so keep an eye on the skies.
Reconnaissance aircraft: With their unique cameras and sensors, they’re ideal for taking pictures of the enemy’s locations and locating potential targets for your next attack.
What are the different Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown game mode options?
Campaign: You’ll fight through a gripping story as Trigger, a pilot in the Osean Air Defence Force (OADF), leading the charge in epic aerial skirmishes.
Free mission: Replay any of the campaign’s levels that you have already finished. This time, take a different path to your goal. Alternately, practice the mission until you can perform it without assistance. There’s also always a high score to strive for!
Multiplayer: Do you envision yourself as the leader of your squadron? In frantic online dogfights with two to eight players, square off against your friends and other pilots. Play a traditional team deathmatch or compete in the free-for-all battle royale mode to be the last person standing.
Conclusion
The combat flight simulation game Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown provides a deep narrative and a variety of gameplay options. Intense aerial combat, dynamic weather, and realistic aircraft navigation are all faced by players. High sales and favorable reviews demonstrate its success, setting it apart from other Ace Combat titles.