Ace Combat 7 PS4

A new entry in the Ace Combat series has been teased in a developer message marking the start of the franchise's 30th anniversary celebrations.

The first game launched in Japan on 30th June 1995, and 30 years later, series brand director Kazutoki Kono wishes to "express my deepest gratitude to all our fans and everyone involved who has supported the series throughout the years. Thank you, sincerely, from the bottom of my heart."

Kono's message to the fans finishes with a small tease for the next game, which was confirmed to be in development at Bandai Namco and ILCA almost four years ago. "Everything is in place. It’s time to take flight once again — toward even greater heights."

Not seen since Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown on PS4, it's been more than six years since the last instalment. The title has sold more than six million copies, with the franchise itself sitting at over 20 million sales.

"Over the past thirty years, times have changed. Values have shifted, technologies have evolved. Our company and our team have continually transformed to navigate these tides. In a word, we’ve embraced change," explained Kono. "There were times we may not have fully met your expectations. But I also believe there were moments when we exceeded them — when we soared higher than anyone imagined."

He concluded: "After three incredible decades of adapting to change, we’ve built an enduring bond of trust with all of you. That connection is the very force that has sustained the ACE COMBAT series and propelled it into the future. I can now feel this truth in every fiber of my being. And I’m proud — proud that our ongoing commitment to delivering value and earning your trust has led us to this 30th anniversary."

If you're looking for a little catch-up on the series ahead of the next game, Ace Combat 7 is just £6.99 / $9.59 in the PS Store sale, available at that price until 2nd July.

Are you looking forward to the next Ace Combat game? Do you have fond memories of the series? Let us know in the comments below.

[source acecombat.jp]