ACE COMBAT™ 7: SKIES UNKNOWN

Developer: Bandai Namco Studios Inc.
Release: Jan 31st 2019
Platforms:
Action
Simulation
Addictive
Beautiful
Immersive
Grindy
Lacking V R
ACE COMBAT™ 7: SKIES UNKNOWN Poster

" Engaging action flight simulation with addictive gameplay and stunning graphics but average story "

ACE COMBAT™ 7: SKIES UNKNOWN Review

Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown delivers an exhilarating arcade-style flight experience with tight and responsive controls that appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers. The game shines with stunning visuals, including breathtaking skies and detailed aircraft models, complemented by a dynamic and emotional soundtrack that enhances immersion. While the story is considered average to good and somewhat melodramatic, it provides enough drama and memorable moments to engage players. Missions vary from intense dogfights to thrilling set-pieces, maintaining excitement throughout the campaign. The PC version benefits from excellent optimization, customizable controls, and modding potential, though some players note the absence of official VR support and HOTAS integration as drawbacks. Multiplayer exists but is less favored, often described as lacking depth and populated by overly competitive players. Overall, the game offers a solid duration with replayability, especially for those who appreciate arcade flight combat and the nostalgic Ace Combat universe.

Highlights

Players praise the game’s engaging and addictive gameplay mechanics, balancing arcade fun with challenging dogfights. The graphics are frequently described as beautiful and masterpiece-quality, with vivid skies and impressive aircraft details. The soundtrack and audio design receive high marks for intensifying the atmosphere, while the story, though not exceptional, is appreciated for its emotional moments and accessible narrative. The PC version’s customizable controls and mod support further enhance the experience. Missions are varied and exciting, providing a strong sense of adrenaline and accomplishment.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include a somewhat generic and occasionally melodramatic story that doesn’t fully satisfy all players. Certain missions, especially those requiring high point scores by destroying numerous targets, are seen as tedious or grindy. The lack of official VR support and HOTAS controller integration frustrates flight sim enthusiasts. Multiplayer mode is often described as dead or overly competitive with little depth. Some players find the in-mission chatter distracting, making it hard to focus on objectives, especially for non-native speakers. Additionally, a few note minor bugs and occasional content cuts that affect immersion.

Pros

  • Engaging and addictive arcade-style flight gameplay with responsive controls.
  • Stunning and beautiful graphics with detailed aircraft and vibrant skies.
  • Dynamic and emotional soundtrack that enhances immersion.
  • Varied mission design offering adrenaline-pumping challenges.
  • Accessible story with emotional and memorable moments.
  • Excellent PC optimization with customizable controls and keybindings.
  • Modding community support adds replayability and content restoration.

Cons

  • Story is average and occasionally melodramatic or confusing.
  • Some missions feel grindy or tedious, especially point-scoring ones.
  • Lack of official VR support frustrates immersion seekers.
  • No native HOTAS support limits flight sim authenticity.
  • Multiplayer is underwhelming, often dead or overly competitive.
  • In-mission chatter can be distracting and overwhelming.
  • Minor bugs and glitches reported by some players.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Become an ace pilot and soar through photorealistic skies with full 360 degree movement; down enemy aircraft and experience the thrill of engaging in realistic sorties! Aerial combat has never looked or felt better!

Release Date Jan 31st 2019
Publisher Bandai Namco Entertainment
Developer Bandai Namco Studios Inc.
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (19,537)
89% Positive 11% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
78