Bandai Namco unveiled a new story trailer for Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve.
The developers also revealed details about one of the missions that will be part of Ace Combat 8. In it, players will have to launch a counterattack against Sotoa forces and destroy all enemy targets within the allotted time.
The main feature of the mission will be the return of the fan-favorite Annihilation Battle mode. In it, the player gets significant freedom of action and decides which targets to destroy and in what order. Among the objects to be attacked will be a solar power plant, oil tanks, an airbase, and an ammunition depot.
During the mission, you can return to a special supply line to replenish ammunition. Thus, the pilot will have to independently choose the optimal moment for reloading and plan the route taking into account the remaining time.
I believe that this category of missions best reflects the main principle of the Ace Combat series – the ability to destroy enemies based on your own decisions.
In Ace Combat 8, the developers will expand the capabilities of Annihilation Battle through a chain destruction system. For example, hitting a flammable object, such as an oil tank at an enemy base, can cause an explosion and destroy nearby buildings.
Destruction can also occur as a result of falling downed aircraft: if debris or the aircraft itself crashes near structures, they can also be damaged. According to the developers, this system adds another strategic layer, as the player needs to consider not only immediate targets but also the order and timing of strikes.