Ace Combat

Ace Combat is a video game series published by the Japanese company of Namco. Although set in fictional countries, many details are similar to actual wars, such as the Persian Gulf War, the Cold War, and World War II while featuring actual aircraft, despite having some exaggerated features.

The first three titles were released on Sony's PlayStation platform, while three subsequent titles were released on the PlayStation 2 (Ace Combat 4, Ace Combat 5 and Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War). One title, Ace Combat X was released on the PlayStation Portable (PSP) platform and another title, Ace Combat 6 is scheduled for release on Microsoft's XBox 360 platform.

Titles

Playstation

Ace Combat (1995)

The first instalment in the series, it was released as Air Combat in the North American and European markets, but the original Japanese title of Ace Combat was retained for the platinum release and all sequels.

Ace Combat 2 (1997)

This game introduced the fictional continent of Usea that would feature in all sequels.

Ace Combat 3: Electrosphere (1999)

The third sequel was played off in a more futuristic setting featuring futuristic planes that were not well received by some. The game appears to be set in the same world as most other games in the series. The Japanese version of this game is very story-driven, featuring 52 missions, multiple endings, and anime-style characters. However, in the North American and European versions, this story was mostly cut out, reducing it to 36 missions and a much more linear storyline. Consequently, this game was generally well-received in Japan, but met much criticism elsewhere.

Playstation 2

Ace Combat 04: Shattered Skies (2001)

Also known as Ace Combat: Distant Thunder in Europe or abbreviated as AC04, it was the first sequel for the PS2 platform. This title was a big improvement, due to this console's improved processing power and its ability to render more detailed graphics. It was well received by many primarily for its gameplay, well-told narrative, and its beautifully rendered graphics.

File:X02-1.jpg

The X-02 unlockable aircraft found in Ace Combat 4 and Ace Combat 5, this photograph is an Ace Combat 4 screenshot

Ace Combat 5: The Unsung War (2004)

Also known as Ace Combat: Squadron Leader in Europe or abbreviated as AC5, the graphics were further improved mostly in the depiction of afterburner flames, missile contrail, explosion effects and trees. It also offered 27 missions in campaign mode and more than 30 missions in an arcade mode (which was a direct sequel to the story of AC04), many more than the 18 missions of the previous title. Although in practice, most of these arcade missions were shorter than the multi-staged missions of AC04. Ace Combat 5's other major additions included a simple wingman command system where the player could give orders to other members of their squadron. Aircraft had to be purchased not only the player, but also for his/her wingmen.

Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War (2006)

Also known as Ace Combat: Belkan War in Europe serves as the prequel to Ace Combat 5 and explains in further detail the fictional Belkan War that preceded the events of Ace Combat 5 by 15 years. In keeping with this time line, the aircraft in this title are older models than those featured in Ace Combat 5. They are aircraft typical of real world aircraft from the 1990's whereas Ace Combat 5 included the very latest aircraft.

Xbox 360

Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation (Fall 2007 (Tenative))

This title (Japanese: "Kaihô he no Senka") was confirmed in production for Microsoft's Xbox 360 platform. [1][2]

Playstation Portable

Ace Combat X: Skies of Deception (2006)

This the first title in the series for Sony's PlayStation Portable (PSP) platform. Set in 2020, the player is a pilot in the Gryphus Squadron of the Federal Republic of Aurelia, who almost single handedly defend Aurelia from the invading country of Leasath. It offers around 30 missions (including alternate missions) and up to 4 player wireless ad hoc play.

Gameboy Advance

Ace Combat Advance (2005)

This the first title in the series for Nintendo's Gameboy Advance hand held console.

Title differences

The Japanese Ace Combat was renamed Air Combat in the North American and European releases.

In NTSC territories, the fourth instalment of the game is known as Ace Combat 04: Shattered Skies, while in PAL territories the game is known as Ace Combat: Distant Thunder. Another change was done in the Spanish version of the game, being renamed Ace Combat: Trueno de Acero, that can be translated as Ace Combat: Steel Thunder. The fifth instalment of the game is known as Ace Combat 5: The Unsung War, while the PAL release was renamed Ace Combat: Squadron Leader. In PAL territories, Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War had a slight rename to Ace Combat: The Belkan War making it the first game since the series introduction to not have a significant name change in PAL Territories.

It is unclear why PAL versions of the game have different titles, although it is surmised that the number is removed from recent instalments to keep continuity.

The Playstation 2 games offer 16:9 anamorphic widescreen images and scenery (to be activated in the options menu).

Music

The Ace Combat series is known for its dramatic soundtrack, particularly in later instalments of the game where full-blown orchestras, such as the Warsaw Philharmonic, are used. Each instalment of the series usually uses one style of music as the basis of its soundtrack:

In Air Combat and Ace Combat 2 the music was heavily influenced by rock and gained popularity with fans of the genre.

Ace Combat 3 used a techno soundtrack similar to that of Namco's Ridge Racer series.

Ace Combat 4 mixed orchestra and synth tracks.

Ace Combat 5 featured the song Blurry by Puddle of Mudd accompanied by synth and orchestral score by Warsaw Philharmonic.

Ace Combat Zero used similar techniques to Ace Combat 4 & 5 but incorporated a Spanish flair through the use of acoustic guitars.

Ace Combat X uses Techno music similar to Ace Combat 3, although it maintains the more cinematic synths from the Playstation 2 games as well.

External links

Ace Combat series at MobyGames
http://www.acecombatskies.com/ Ace Combat fansite and forums
http://www.electrosphere.info/ Ace Combat fansite and forums
Ace Combat: The Belkan War screenshots gallery
AceCombat.net