What is the best Ace Combat game?

From arcade-style dogfighting to cinematic campaigns with fictional geopolitics, each entry pushed flight combat in a different direction. Cast your vote!

1. 1
   Ace Combat 04: Shattered Skies

   The 2001 PS2 entry that established the Ace Combat formula and introduced the fictional Strangereal universe with a stirring narrative.
   1000pts
2. 2
   Ace Combat 5: The Unsung War

   The acclaimed 2004 entry widely praised for its emotionally complex story and the best narrative in the series.
   333pts
3. 3
   Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War

   The 2006 prequel that digs into lore-rich Cold War-style aerial conflict and features the legendary Galm Team.
   333pts
4. 4
   Ace Combat: Assault Horizon

   The 2011 real-world-set entry that divided fans with its more cinematic close-range dogfighting system and Call of Duty-inspired tone.
   167pts
5. 5
   Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation

   The 2007 Xbox 360 exclusive praised for its large-scale team-based battles and impressive visual spectacle.
   167pts
6. 6
   Ace Combat 3: Electrosphere

   The 1999 futuristic entry with a bold cyberpunk aesthetic and five distinct storyline branches praised for narrative ambition.
   48pts
7. 7
   Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown

   The 2019 return to Strangereal blending spectacular VR support with classic Ace Combat formula refined for modern audiences.
   1pts
8. 8
   Ace Combat 2

   The 1997 PS1 sequel that set the template for the entire series with satisfying mission variety and tight dogfighting gameplay.
   1pts