Ace Combat Zero Now a Standalone Steam App, Breaking Free From Its Gigantic Successor's Grip
ByReiner Knizia
This article reports on a significant development for fans of the Ace Combat series, particularly regarding the game Ace Combat Zero. Previously tied to a much larger successor, Ace Combat Zero is now being released as an independent application on Steam, a change that has been widely welcomed by the gaming community. This decision by Bandai Namco resolves a major point of contention among players and enhances the accessibility and manageability of the classic title.
Emancipation of a Flight Sim: Ace Combat Zero Flies Solo on Steam
The Initial Bundle Blunder: Why Ace Combat Zero Caused Frustration
When Ace Combat 8, also known as "Wings of Theve," launched to critical acclaim, it brought with it a rather unexpected problem: its pre-order bonus, the beloved 2006 PlayStation 2 title, Ace Combat Zero. Instead of being a separate download, Zero was inexplicably integrated into AC8's colossal 136GB launcher. This forced players to download the entire massive game just to access a comparatively small 3.2GB port, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among fans and a surge of negative reviews for AC8 on launch day.
A Victorious Separation: Zero Gains Independence
Thankfully, the story now has a positive turn. Bandai Namco has officially announced that Ace Combat Zero will be offered as a standalone application on Steam. While this doesn't mean it will be available for general purchase—it remains an exclusive for those who pre-ordered Ace Combat 8—it signifies that existing owners can now download and launch the game independently. The developers are currently conducting final quality assurance and compatibility testing to ensure a smooth transition.
Unlocking New Horizons: Benefits of the Standalone Release
This separation offers significant advantages for players. Foremost among them is the potential to free up a substantial 136GB of storage space on their hard drives, a welcome relief for many. Furthermore, the standalone version of Ace Combat Zero will introduce Steam Cloud saves, allowing players to seamlessly continue their campaigns across different devices. While the news has been overwhelmingly positive, a common request from the community is the inclusion of achievements, a feature present in the original console release that many hope will eventually make its way to the Steam version.
Looking Ahead: Zero's Future on PC
Although a specific release date for Ace Combat Zero's independent launch has not yet been announced, it is anticipated to be in the near future. This development marks a victory for player feedback and highlights the importance of thoughtful game distribution. Fans can look forward to a more streamlined and convenient experience with this classic flight simulation game.
About the author
Reiner Knizia
Prolific and award-winning board game designer with a PhD in mathematics, known for elegant game mechanics.
