HORI and Thrustmaster both released officially licensed flight sticks for Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve on October 2, 2026, with prices ranging from $129.99 to $149.99. The accessories aim to enhance the game’s aerial combat experience through specialized controls and force feedback.
The HORI Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve Flight Stick and Thrustmaster T.FLIGHT HOTAS NEO Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve Edition launched on October 2, 2026, offering players immersive controls for the highly anticipated sequel. Both devices are compatible with PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Windows PCs, with HORI’s model priced at $129.99 and Thrustmaster’s at $149.99. The release coincides with the game’s arrival, which has already received critical acclaim, including a Metacritic score of 87.
HORI’s Ambidextrous Design vs. Thrustmaster’s Force Feedback
HORI’s stick features Hall effect sensors, independent throttle and brake levers, and a dedicated High-G button for executing aggressive turns. The ambidextrous layout allows rapid input during combat, while the customizable LED lighting adjusts via a Windows 11 app. Thrustmaster’s offering, meanwhile, includes force feedback and rumble to simulate explosions and missile launches, though it lacks a High-G button. Both controllers support twin-stick mode when paired, though HORI’s package includes only a single unit.
Ace Combat 8’s Critical Acclaim and Franchise Legacy
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve has been hailed as the franchise’s “final form,” with critics praising its cinematic gameplay and “exhilarating” combat. KitGuru reported that the title holds the highest rating in 25 years, narrowly missing the top spot behind 2001’s Ace Combat 04: Shattered Skies. The game’s Metacritic score of 87 and OpenCritic rating of 88 position it as a strong contender for Game of the Year, though some reviews critiqued its story and multiplayer elements.
For long-time fans, the release of these flight sticks marks the series' evolution. Pushsquare highlighted that the accessories feel important for a franchise like Ace Combat,
where the drama of combat is crucial to the experience.
With the game’s launch date set and controllers now available, players can fully immerse themselves in the title’s aerial battles, whether through HORI’s precision-focused design or Thrustmaster’s tactile feedback.
What’s Next for the Franchise?
As Ace Combat 8 debuts, the availability of these flight sticks sets the stage for competitive and casual play. HORI’s twin-stick mode, requiring a second unit, may appeal to enthusiasts seeking a cockpit-like setup, while Thrustmaster’s force feedback could attract players prioritizing realism. The game’s reception will likely influence future hardware developments, with both companies potentially refining their offerings based on user feedback. For now, the accessories and the title itself represent a culmination of the franchise’s 30-year journey, aiming to deliver a “truer” Ace Combat experience than ever before.