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Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteFor most newcomers, start with ACE COMBAT 7: SKIES UNKNOWN. Bandai Namco says the series’ numbered games have self-contained stories, so you do not need to play ACE COMBAT ZERO: THE BELKAN WAR first. Choose ZERO first if you specifically want its earlier origin-story context and can access the PlayStation 2 game.
At a glance: which game fits you?
| Factor | ACE COMBAT ZERO: THE BELKAN WAR | ACE COMBAT 7: SKIES UNKNOWN |
|---|---|---|
| Story role | Bandai Namco describes it as an origin story for the ACE COMBAT universe. | A standalone numbered entry set during the 2019 conflict between Osea and Erusea. |
| Distinctive focus | An Ace Style gauge responds to mission approach and choices in battle; Bandai Namco says it shapes story outcome and pilot identity. | A conflict involving drone warfare and the hopes and ambitions of multiple squadrons. |
| Official platform information | The official series archive lists PlayStation 2. | Official listings name PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Steam, and Nintendo Switch. Editions vary by region and format. |
| Choose it first if… | You want earlier lore context and can play the PS2 title. | You want a self-contained entry with more officially listed platform options. |
Do you need to play Zero before Ace Combat 7?
No. Bandai Namco’s official series overview says numbered titles have self-contained stories, even though they share the fictional setting of Strangereal. That makes ACE COMBAT 7 a valid first game rather than a sequel that requires ZERO as background.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War (Renewed) | Buy on Amazon | |
| 2 |
|
Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War | $229.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War | $56.06 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
![Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War [Japan Import]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51vYVVhudFL._SL160_.jpg)
|
Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War [Japan Import] | $94.91 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
ACE COMBAT ZERO THE BELKAN WAR Original Soundtrack (Remastered 2026) | $14.49 | Buy on Amazon |
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ZERO adds optional context: Bandai Namco describes it as an origin story. That makes it a natural pick for players who want to explore earlier lore, but the publisher does not identify it as required preparation for 7.
What is different about each game?
ACE COMBAT ZERO: THE BELKAN WAR
Bandai Namco’s June 2, 2026 announcement identifies ZERO as a 2006 entry and describes its Ace Style gauge. The gauge responds to how you approach missions and to choices in battle; the publisher says it affects the story outcome and pilot identity. The official series archive lists the game for PlayStation 2.
#1 Best Overall
- Realistic flying experience - Pilot authentic licensed aircrafts such as the F- 15 Eagle or F/A-18 Hornet
- The player's style of flying and changes different facets of the game accordingly; even the game ending itself can change
- Challenging enemies are at your throat - Rival ace pilots will give you a run for your money with their own individual flying styles
- Radio Transmission System, linked with the Ace Style Gauge System change radio communications in real time according to your reputation
- After your missions are over, cut scene interviews of rival pilots will comment on your encounters with them -- giving you an in depth look at your enemy
ACE COMBAT 7: SKIES UNKNOWN
The publisher lists ACE COMBAT 7 with a January 17, 2019 release date. Its official product page places the story in a war between the Osean Federation and the Kingdom of Erusea, with Erusean drones and the ambitions of multiple squadrons central to the premise. Bandai Namco America describes the PS4 edition as a flight/simulation game developed by Project Aces.
These official descriptions establish different story hooks and a notable system in ZERO; they do not establish which game is more enjoyable. Difficulty, campaign length, graphics quality, and an overall “best” ranking are not settled by the publisher’s descriptions.
Rank #2
- Realistic flying experience - Pilot authentic licensed aircrafts such as the F- 15 Eagle or F/A-18 Hornet
- The player's style of flying and changes different facets of the game accordingly; even the game ending itself can change
- Challenging enemies are at your throat - Rival ace pilots will give you a run for your money with their own individual flying styles
- Radio Transmission System, linked with the Ace Style Gauge System change radio communications in real time according to your reputation
- After your missions are over, cut scene interviews of rival pilots will comment on your encounters with them -- giving you an in depth look at your enemy
Platforms and availability to check before choosing
ACE COMBAT 7 is the straightforward option if you want a game listed for multiple modern platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Steam, and Nintendo Switch. Check the store for your region and the specific edition before buying, because listings vary by region and format.
ZERO is listed in Bandai Namco’s series archive as a PlayStation 2 title. Bandai Namco’s 2026 announcement mentioned a digital copy of ZERO as part of a digital preorder offer for ACE COMBAT 8. That was a dated offer, not evidence that ZERO is currently sold as a standalone game on modern platforms. Confirm the platform, region, edition, and current availability before purchasing.
Rank #3
Nintendo Switch-specific limitation
Bandai Namco’s Switch listing is for a Deluxe Edition and says flight sticks and VR mode are not supported on Switch. Those limitations apply to the Switch listing; do not assume they apply to other platforms.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How to decide
- Start with ACE COMBAT 7 if you are new to the series and want the safer first choice based on its self-contained story and broader official platform listings.
- Start with ZERO if you specifically want its origin-story context and Ace Style system, and have access to the PS2 game.
- Play both in either order if you want both stories: the publisher’s description of numbered entries as self-contained means ZERO is not a prerequisite for 7.
Bandai Namco reported on January 16, 2026 that ACE COMBAT 7 had surpassed 7 million units worldwide. That is the publisher’s reported sales milestone, not an independent market estimate.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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