ACE COMBAT 8 multiplayer modes

ACE COMBAT ONLINE has separate progression from Campaign, a shared Air Base lobby for up to 100 players, Co-Op Warfare, Co-Op Assault, special missions, limited-time PvP, and cross-platform play. Core score modes use two teams of four.

Core modes

Co-Op Warfare

Two squads of four compete for the highest total score while allied land, sea, and air NPC units also take part. The winner is the squad with the higher score.

Co-Op Assault

Two four-player teams focus on player-versus-environment targets and compete for score. Despite the co-op name, the official description still frames the two teams as score rivals.

Threat Level

Scoring raises your Threat Level. Higher stars increase the points you earn, but opponents also receive more points for shooting you down. Reaching three stars designates you an Ace Aircraft, turning survival into a risk-reward decision.

Limited missions and PvP

Scramble: a team of four fights a formidable NPC rival squad.
Emergency Sortie: an eight-player team attacks iconic superweapons.
Limited-time PvP: includes 4v4 team deathmatch and eight-player free-for-all events, sometimes with unit-cost or role restrictions.

Air Base and progression

The Air Base is the social lobby. It includes an arcade with classic Namco titles, supply shop, jukebox, military training mode, and store. Online aircraft level through sorties, unlocking stats and abilities; players can customize skins, emblems, and weathering. Ace Pass seasons last two months, and Premium Ace Pass aircraft DLC is also planned for separate purchase after a season ends.

How to prepare a team

Mix Fighters, Attackers, Multiroles, and Electronic aircraft.
Decide who chases high-threat aircraft and who scores on objectives.
Protect a three-star teammate instead of feeding the opponent a high-value kill.
Return to the Air Base after matches to check limited missions and upgrades.

Sources: official Online guide and official game page.