Fast-paced air combat with great visuals and smooth controls that feel really satisfying. The missions keep things interesting, the planes look awesome, and the soundtrack fits perfectly.
I’m already really excited for ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE later this year.
https://steamproxy.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3637841230

The game is OK but some mission timers are so unforgiving they made me lose interest in the game.

Bought during the winter sale at less than $5 (USD) Very fun gameplay, not a true simulation by any means, but provides a tight and engaging "dogfight" gameplay and plenty of mission variety in the campaign to keep you engaged.

The progression/unlock system for new aircraft and modifications is also very rewarding, and offers a good incentive to replay a mission to get more points towards unlocks. Story is secondary to gameplay IMO, and as a first timer to the series, familiar locations or references didn't hold any weight as a first-timer. That being said the mission design is excellent and offers significant challenge, my only want is for more missions to play or a secondary "endless" mode to offer some depth beyond online multiplayer.

With a new installment coming to the series in 2026, at $5 this is a great gateway into the series and makes me excited for a new installment, though given the age of this installment it's not likely I'd pay sticker.

Very good game, looking forward to the series new installment.