A prequel to Ace Combat 5: The Unsung War, Ace Combat Zero takes players 15 years into the past and enmeshes them in the turbulent events that led to the Belkan War. Featuring advanced artificial intelligence (AI) that allows the game and rival pilots to adapt to a player’s flying style, Ace Combat Zero takes aerial combat to a new level of intensity.

“Our Ace Combat series has established itself as the top-selling aerial combat franchise for PlayStation 2, and Ace Combat Zero ratchets up the intensity via a more engrossing storyline and advanced AI, “ said Yoshi Niki, NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc.’s Business Unit Director. “Whether pulling ‘Gs’ in an F-18 Hornet or dog-fighting their friends in VS Mode, Ace Combat Zero has clearly set its sights on the top spot again.”

In Ace Combat Zero, players assume the role of a mercenary pilot hired to fly for Ustio, a small country invaded by its militaristic neighbor Belka. Flying authentic licensed aircrafts such as the F-15 Eagle or F/A-18 Hornet, players fly through 18 realistic missions as they face off against combat-hardened pilots.

Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War introduces rival pilots to the series’ traditional dogfighting action. Players will encounter highly skilled enemy pilots that they will engage throughout the course of the story. Adding even more tension to the game’s dramatic air battles, these rival pilots will utilize advanced battle tactics to attack the player while directing their own squadron.

Exciting features of Ace Combat Zero include:

• Advanced AI Changes the Action: Innovative Ace Style Gauge System factors the player’s style of flying and changes different facets of the game accordingly.
• Personalized Communications: Linked with the Ace Style Gauge System, the Radio Transmission System changes radio communications in real-time according to a player’s reputation. In-game messages from allies and opponents acknowledge the skill level of the player.
• Individualized Enemy Pilots: Brand new to the series, rival ace pilots give players a run for their money with individual flying styles and tactics that require players to elevate their skills to new heights.
• Enhanced Wingman Command: Wingman commands are now more advanced than ever as players coordinate battle tactics with their wingman.
• Retrospective Interviews: Cut-scene interviews of rival pilots comment on their encounters with the player, providing an in depth look into the enemy’s tactical mindset.
• VS Mode: Players dog-fight in head-to-head action against their friends to prove who is the true Ace in the group.

Fly high with Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War when it hits store shelves nationwide on April 25, 2006.