Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown is an adrenaline-fueled aerial combat simulator that masterfully strikes a balance between accessible arcade action and deep flight simulation. As the eighth major installment in the long-running series, this title delivers an intense, cinematic experience that puts players directly into the cockpit of high-performance fighter jets. Whether you are navigating through thick cloud cover or engaging in high-stakes dogfights, the game offers a gripping journey through a world at war.

A War for the Skies: Setting and Story

The game takes place in Strangereal, a fictional alternate version of Earth featuring its own unique geography and history. The narrative centers on the "Lighthouse War" (also known as the Second Continental War) occurring in an alternate 2019. This conflict pits the Kingdom of Erusea against the Osean Federation in a desperate struggle for control over the International Space Elevator.

Players take on the role of Trigger, an Osean Air Force pilot who has been framed for murder and relegated to a penal squadron. While the story follows Trigger's perspective through a series of dramatic missions and cutscenes, the game does not strictly favor one side of the conflict. Along the way, players will encounter pivotal characters such as Rosa Cossette D'Elise, the princess and heir to the Erusean throne, as the war escalates into large-scale attacks on major cities like Farbanti.

Dynamic Gameplay and Customization

Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown offers versatile control schemes to accommodate players of all skill levels. Those new to flight combat can utilize a Standard/Novice setup, which allows for more arcade-like maneuvering, whereas the Expert configuration requires precise tilting and pitch adjustments, providing a much more authentic flight simulation experience. For true enthusiasts, the game also supports flight sticks.

The gameplay loop is driven by mission variety and deep progression. Players must complete diverse objectives, including:

  • Destroying specific enemy targets or large land-based threats.
  • Defending vital assets from incoming attacks.
  • Engaging in intense boss fights against formidable aerial adversaries.
  • Hunting down ace pilots to unlock unique aircraft liveries.

A core pillar of the experience is the Aircraft Tree. By completing missions, players amass MRP (points) that can be redeemed for new fighter jets, specialized weapons, and upgraded parts. This customization is essential, as different aircraft configurations are better suited for specific tasks—some prioritizing speed for multiple targets, while others focus on raw power to take down heavy bombers.

Revolutionary Weather Mechanics

A standout feature in this installment is the introduction of volumetric clouds as a functional gameplay mechanic. Clouds are not merely visual flourishes; they serve as tactical cover that can hide your approach from enemy radar and missiles. However, flying through them presents significant risks:

  • Reduced Visibility: Low-hanging clouds can obscure terrain, making it easier to accidentally crash into mountains.
  • Instrument Interference: Cloud cover can make enemy tracking and missile locks less reliable.
  • Environmental Hazards: Moisture in the clouds causes ice to form on the aircraft, which can negatively impact flight performance.

Platform Availability

Players can experience this high-octane aerial combat on multiple platforms, including PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch. The Nintendo Switch version is noted as an impressive port that maintains the visual fidelity and intense atmosphere of the original release.

Who Is This Game For?

Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown appeals to a wide demographic of gamers. It is perfect for fans of action-adventure titles seeking a cinematic story, as well as flight enthusiasts looking for a middle ground between casual arcade fun and hardcore simulation. If you enjoy high-stakes dogfights, customizable machinery, and breathtaking aerial environments, this is a must-play title.