Ace Combat 8: HOTAS, Multiplayer & Cross-Play FAQ
As of now, Bandai Namco has not officially announced Ace Combat 8, so there is no confirmed support for HOTAS, multiplayer, or cross-play. However, based on the series’ history and current industry trends, we can make educated inferences about what to expect. This article breaks down everything known and speculated about these features.
Background: The Ace Combat Series So Far
The Ace Combat series, developed by Project Aces, has been a staple of arcade-style flight combat since 1995. The most recent mainline entry, Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown (released in 2019), set a high bar with its VR missions, detailed aircraft models, and a story that blended realism with sci-fi elements. It was praised for its return to form after the divisive Ace Combat: Assault Horizon. The game supported HOTAS (Hands On Throttle-And-Stick) setups on PlayStation 4 and PC, and had a robust multiplayer mode, but did not include cross-play between platforms.
Because Ace Combat 8 has not been formally revealed, there is no official word on its feature set. However, the gap between entries in the series has historically been 3-6 years, so a new title is plausible in the near future. Fans are already speculating about what the next installment will bring, especially given the success of Ace Combat 7’s formula.
HOTAS Support: What We Know and Expect
HOTAS support in Ace Combat games has been a key feature for simulation enthusiasts. Ace Combat 7 supported a range of HOTAS peripherals on PS4 and PC, with the game natively recognizing popular models like the Thrustmaster T.16000M and the HOTAS Warthog. On console, the support was more limited, but still present.
For Ace Combat 8, it is highly likely that HOTAS support will continue, especially on PC where the peripheral ecosystem is vast. However, the level of support may vary by platform. On consoles, particularly Xbox, HOTAS support has historically been less robust, with fewer officially licensed peripherals. If Ace Combat 8 releases on next-gen consoles, it will likely support whatever HOTAS options are available for those systems, but players may need to check compatibility lists.
One thing to note: HOTAS support does not necessarily mean full simulation controls. Ace Combat has always been an arcade-style flight game, so even with a HOTAS, the flight model remains simplified. The stick and throttle are mapped to the same functions as the controller, but with more precision and immersion.
Multiplayer: Modes and Features
Ace Combat 7’s multiplayer was a straightforward but enjoyable addition, featuring two main modes: Team Deathmatch and Battle Royale. Both were 8-player online matches, with points awarded for kills, damage, and assists. The mode was well-received, though some players wished for more variety, such as co-op missions or a larger player count.
For Ace Combat 8, multiplayer is almost certain to return, given the series’ established online presence. The question is what shape it will take. The series could expand on the existing modes, introduce co-op missions, or even add a battle royale-style mode, though that seems less likely given the game’s focus on dogfighting. More likely, we’ll see a refinement of the existing modes, possibly with more maps, more aircraft, and better matchmaking.
Another possibility is the inclusion of a PvE (player versus environment) mode, where players team up to fight AI-controlled squadrons. This was a popular feature in older Ace Combat titles, such as Ace Combat Infinity, and could make a comeback.
Cross-Play: The Big Question
Cross-play is the most uncertain feature for Ace Combat 8. Ace Combat 7 did not support cross-play, and as of now, there is no indication that the next game will either. However, the gaming industry has been moving toward cross-play as a standard feature, especially for multiplayer-focused titles. Games like Call of Duty, Fortnite, and Rocket League have made cross-play the norm, and players have come to expect it.
That said, Ace Combat is a niche franchise, and the player base is relatively small compared to those mainstream titles. Cross-play would help keep the multiplayer community alive, especially on platforms with smaller populations like PC or Xbox. Bandai Namco has not commented on the matter, but it would be a welcome addition.
If cross-play is implemented, it would likely be between PlayStation and Xbox, with PC possibly included. However, there are technical challenges, such as input method differences (mouse and keyboard vs. controller) and potential cheating on PC. These issues have been handled by other games, but they do add complexity.
How to Choose a HOTAS for Ace Combat 8
If you’re planning to play Ace Combat 8 with a HOTAS, the choice of hardware is crucial. Here are some factors to consider:
- Platform compatibility: Ensure the HOTAS works with your console or PC. Some sticks are PC-only, while others have console-specific versions.
- Build quality: Look for a stick with a solid base, smooth gimbal, and comfortable throttle. Cheap sticks may feel flimsy and imprecise.
- Number of buttons: Ace Combat uses many controls (weapons, targeting, flaps, etc.), so having enough buttons on the stick and throttle is essential.
- Force feedback: Not essential, but some players enjoy the tactile feedback. However, force feedback HOTAS units are rare and expensive.
- Budget: HOTAS prices range from around $50 to over $500. For a casual player, a mid-range stick like the Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS 4 is sufficient. For serious simmers, a higher-end setup may be worth the investment.
Remember that Ace Combat is an arcade game, so you don’t need a top-of-the-line HOTAS to enjoy it. A basic stick will do the job, but a good one enhances the experience.
Common Problems and Misconceptions
One common misconception is that Ace Combat is a full flight simulator. It is not. It’s an arcade game with simplified physics, so a HOTAS won’t make it more realistic in terms of flight modeling. It will, however, make the controls more immersive and precise.
Another issue is that HOTAS support on consoles can be inconsistent. Some games only support specific models, and even then, the button mapping may not be fully customizable. In Ace Combat 7, for example, the PS4 version supported a few HOTAS models, but the mapping was fixed and couldn’t be changed in-game. This was a source of frustration for some players.
For cross-play, a common concern is that PC players would have an unfair advantage due to higher frame rates and better precision. However, in a game like Ace Combat, the skill gap is more about tactics and situational awareness than raw aim, so this is less of an issue than in a first-person shooter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Ace Combat 8 have HOTAS support on Xbox?
It’s likely, but not guaranteed. Xbox has historically had fewer HOTAS options, but Microsoft has been more open to flight peripherals in recent years. If Ace Combat 8 supports HOTAS, it will likely be on all platforms, but the specific models may vary.
Can I use my Ace Combat 7 HOTAS with Ace Combat 8?
If the game supports HOTAS, it will likely support the same models as Ace Combat 7, since the technology hasn’t changed drastically. However, you may need to update drivers or firmware for your specific device.
Will Ace Combat 8 have cross-play between PC and console?
There’s no official word, but given the industry trend, it’s possible. However, it may be limited to certain platforms, and PC players might be excluded to avoid cheating concerns.
Is Ace Combat 8 a simulation or an arcade game?
It’s an arcade game. The series has always prioritized fun and accessibility over realistic flight modeling. Even with a HOTAS, you won’t get a DCS-level experience.
What multiplayer modes will Ace Combat 8 have?
Likely similar to Ace Combat 7, with Team Deathmatch and Battle Royale. There’s also a chance of co-op missions, which were popular in older titles.
When will Ace Combat 8 be released?
No official date has been announced. Based on the series’ history, it could be 2024 or later. Keep an eye on Bandai Namco’s announcements for more info.
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