Project Aces, the studio developing Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve, has issued an apology to Steam users regarding the distribution method for the pre-order bonus, Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War. Although the 2006 PlayStation 2 classic was included as an incentive for pre-ordering Ace Combat 8, PC gamers found that the title cannot function as a standalone Steam application and remains anchored to the main game’s files.
This setup has drawn criticism from players, particularly since Ace Combat Zero is distributed as a separate app on Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5. Project Aces noted that it is evaluating player feedback and exploring potential solutions with platform partners, though the studio stopped short of guaranteeing a change to the Steam version.
Steam Players Need Ace Combat 8 Installed
Steam delivers Ace Combat Zero as a DLC executable that runs independently from the primary title, yet the system still demands that Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve be present on the hard drive. According to reports, the complete Ace Combat 8 download totals approximately 140GB, whereas the legacy game occupies a much smaller footprint.
This discrepancy has notably annoyed consumers who bought the new installment mainly to secure the classic game as a pre-order reward. Furthermore, Steam users miss out on the dedicated achievements and profile features typically tied to standalone releases.
Licensing Restrictions Behind the Decision
According to Project Aces, platform-specific factors and licensing constraints are the reasons Ace Combat Zero cannot currently launch as a standalone application on Steam. The team admitted a failure to properly communicate this distribution plan ahead of the release, expressing regret for any frustration and confusion caused.
Initial pre-order details initially labeled Ace Combat Zero as a standalone release, but the Steam store page was subsequently revised to specify that it functions as a DLC executable dependent on Ace Combat 8.
Also Read: Best Turn-Based RPGs to Play if You’re Tired of Real-Time Combat
Developers Exploring Possible Solutions
Project Aces stated that it is currently reviewing alternative approaches alongside platform partners and other stakeholders, though it emphasized that modifications are not guaranteed. At present, Steam users looking to play the pre-order bonus must maintain the full installation of Ace Combat 8. While the recent developer statement leaves the door open for a revised distribution strategy down the line, a separate release on Steam remains unconfirmed.
