The brilliant Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve makes its official launch on 2nd October, 2026, and if you're considering buying it, I'd highly recommend pre-ordering on this occasion.

That's not only because the new game is another fantastic entry in Bandai Namco's longstanding series, but because it comes with an awesome bonus that's exclusive to pre-orders: Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War.

Yes, as previously announced, those who pre-order AC8 will also receive a digital re-release of AC Zero, one of the best-loved entries in the franchise.

It's worth stressing, however, that this bonus is only available to those that pre-order. If you purchase AC8 after it launches on 2nd October, it will not come with AC Zero.

As outlined in the above post, this is mostly down to licence agreements between Bandai Namco and the manufacturers of the various real-world fighter jets featured in the games.

Basically, because the licences for the planes appearing in AC Zero have expired, Bamco cannot sell the port separately, so it's resolved to include it as a pre-order bonus.

If you want access to AC Zero, you have between now and 2nd October to pre-order AC8.

By the way, this extends to physical editions too; only the initial run of AC8's physical copies will include a redemption code for AC Zero. Subsequent copies past the first batch will not.

Pre-ordering games these days is becoming less and less important with the rise of digital, but in this instance I think it's well worth it if you're planning on purchasing anyway. You'll get the most recent iteration that's great all on its own, plus a highly regarded classic game on top.

Will you be grabbing AC8 while it comes with AC Zero, or are you not bothered about the bonus? Tell us in the comments section below.