When Will Ace Combat 7 Go On sale? (Hurry, Pilot Deals!)
I remember it like it was yesterday.
The digital timer on my phone ticked down, each second amplifying the anticipation.
It was Black Friday, and I was locked in a virtual standoff, not against enemy fighters, but against the hordes of other gamers all vying for the same prize: a heavily discounted copy of The Witcher 3.
The adrenaline was pumping just as if I was dodging missiles in Strangereal.
That feeling of triumph when I finally clicked “Purchase” – pure, unadulterated gamer joy.
This is the feeling we chase, the sweet victory of snagging a coveted game at a price that makes our wallets sing.
For many of us, that coveted game is Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown.
The roar of the engines, the stunning visuals of clouds parting before your F-22, and the emotionally charged story have captivated millions.
The game’s immersive gameplay and rich storytelling make it a title worth owning, even years after its initial release.
But let’s be honest, no pilot wants to pay full price when a sweet deal is just over the horizon.
So, buckle up, fellow aces, because we’re diving deep into the world of Ace Combat 7 sales, analyzing trends, and predicting the best times to snag this aerial masterpiece for a steal in 2025.
The Rise of Ace Combat 7: From Arcade Roots to Modern Masterpiece
The Ace Combat series has been thrilling gamers since the mid-90s, evolving from arcade-style shooters to the sophisticated flight combat simulators we know and love today.
The original Ace Combat, released on the PlayStation in 1995, set the stage with its fast-paced action and compelling gameplay.
Over the years, the series has consistently delivered high-octane aerial battles, engaging storylines, and a diverse roster of aircraft to pilot.
Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown, released in 2019, marked a significant leap forward for the franchise.
Utilizing the Unreal Engine 4, the game boasts breathtaking graphics, realistic weather effects, and a dynamic cloud system that directly impacts gameplay.
This is a game that is worth the full price but the discount is a must for many gamer.
But it’s more than just pretty visuals.
Ace Combat 7 brought back the compelling narrative the series is known for, exploring themes of war, redemption, and the human cost of conflict.
The game’s multiplayer mode allows players to test their skills against others in intense dogfights, further extending its replayability.
The game’s critical acclaim is backed up by sales figures.
As of March 2023, Ace Combat 7 had sold over 4 million copies worldwide.
This success is a testament to the game’s quality and the enduring appeal of the Ace Combat franchise.
The fanbase is incredibly dedicated, with active communities on Reddit (r/acecombat) and other forums, where players share tips, discuss lore, and eagerly await news of future content or sales.
This strong community is a key reason why people are still actively looking to purchase the game, even years after its release.
Current Pricing Trends for Ace Combat 7
Understanding the current pricing landscape is crucial before predicting future sales.
Ace Combat 7 is available on various platforms, including Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Marketplace, and in physical copies from retailers like Amazon and Best Buy.
Here’s a snapshot of the typical pricing as of October 2024:
- Steam (PC): Standard Edition – $59.99, Deluxe Edition – $84.99
- PlayStation Store (PS4/PS5): Standard Edition – $59.99, Deluxe Edition – $84.99
- Xbox Marketplace (Xbox One/Xbox Series X/S): Standard Edition – $59.99, Deluxe Edition – $84.99
- Physical Copies: Prices vary depending on the retailer, but generally hover around $30-$50 for the standard edition.
The price of Ace Combat 7 has fluctuated significantly since its release.
Initially, it maintained its full retail price for several months.
However, as time passed and sales events rolled around, discounts became more frequent and deeper.
Several factors influence these price changes:
- Platform Sales: Steam, PlayStation Store, and Xbox Marketplace regularly host sales events, offering discounts on a wide range of games, including Ace Combat 7.
- Publisher Sales: Bandai Namco, the publisher of Ace Combat 7, often organizes its own sales events, providing additional opportunities for discounts.
- Physical Retailer Sales: Retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and GameStop often offer discounts on physical copies of the game, particularly during holidays and clearance events.
- Game Age: As a game ages, its price tends to decrease.
This is a natural trend in the gaming industry, as newer titles are released and older games become less in demand.
Historical Sales Patterns and Predictions for 2025
To predict when Ace Combat 7 might go on sale in 2025, we need to analyze its historical sales patterns.
Based on data from past years, certain events consistently trigger discounts:
These sales events offer the most predictable opportunities to snag Ace Combat 7 at a reduced price.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday typically offer the deepest discounts, but the summer and winter sales are also excellent options.
Major gaming events like E3 (though it’s uncertain if it will return in its traditional form) or Gamescom can also influence sales.
Publishers often announce new games or content during these events, which can lead to discounts on older titles to generate interest.
Considering these patterns, here are my predictions for Ace Combat 7 sales in 2025:
- Summer Sales (June-August): Expect discounts ranging from 30-75% on all platforms.
- Black Friday/Cyber Monday (November): This is likely the best opportunity to find the deepest discounts, potentially reaching up to 80% off.
- Holiday Sales (December-January): Similar to the summer sales, expect discounts ranging from 30-75%.
- Random Publisher Sales: Keep an eye out for surprise sales events from Bandai Namco throughout the year.
Best Platforms to Purchase Ace Combat 7 and Where to Look for Deals
Choosing the right platform to buy Ace Combat 7 depends on your preferences and gaming setup.
If you’re a PC gamer, Steam is an excellent choice.
It offers a vast library of games, a robust community, and frequent sales.
The PlayStation Store and Xbox Marketplace are the go-to options for console gamers, providing seamless integration with your respective consoles and access to exclusive content.
Here’s a breakdown of the best platforms and resources for finding deals:
- Digital Storefronts:
- Steam: Regularly check the Steam store page for Ace Combat 7 and add it to your wishlist to receive notifications when it goes on sale.
- PlayStation Store: Monitor the PlayStation Store for sales events and subscribe to the PlayStation Plus service for additional discounts.
- Xbox Marketplace: Keep an eye on the Xbox Marketplace for sales and consider subscribing to Xbox Game Pass, which sometimes includes Ace Combat 7.
- Retail Websites:
- Amazon: Track the price of physical copies on Amazon and set up price alerts to be notified when the price drops.
- Best Buy: Check Best Buy’s website for sales and promotions, and consider joining their My Best Buy loyalty program for additional benefits.
- GameStop: Monitor GameStop’s website and stores for deals on used copies of the game.
- Deal Aggregators and Communities:
- r/GameDeals on Reddit: This subreddit is a fantastic resource for finding deals on games across all platforms.
- Slickdeals: Slickdeals is a popular deal aggregation website that allows you to set up alerts for specific games.
- IsThereAnyDeal: This website tracks prices across multiple digital storefronts, making it easy to compare prices and find the best deals.
Tips for Gamers: How to Snag the Best Deals
Landing the best deal on Ace Combat 7 requires a proactive approach.
Here are some practical tips to help you maximize your chances:
- Set Price Alerts: Use websites like IsThereAnyDeal or browser extensions to set price alerts for Ace Combat 7 on your preferred platforms.
You’ll receive notifications when the price drops below your desired threshold. - Follow Sale Announcements: Stay informed about upcoming sales events by following gaming news websites, social media accounts, and the official Ace Combat channels.
- Utilize Wish Lists: Add Ace Combat 7 to your wishlist on Steam, PlayStation Store, or Xbox Marketplace.
You’ll receive notifications when the game goes on sale. - Join Gaming Communities: Engage with other gamers on forums like Reddit and share information about sales and deals.
- Consider Bundle Deals: Sometimes, Ace Combat 7 is included in bundle deals with other games.
These bundles can offer significant savings compared to purchasing the games separately. - Be Patient: Don’t rush into buying the game at full price.
With a little patience and persistence, you’re sure to find a great deal.
Conclusion: Prepare for Takeoff!
The skies of Strangereal are calling, and the thrill of aerial combat awaits.
By understanding the historical sales patterns, monitoring the best platforms, and utilizing the tips I’ve shared, you’ll be well-equipped to snag Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown at a price that will make you feel like you’ve just won a dogfight.
Stay vigilant, stay connected with the gaming community, and be ready to pounce when the next sale event arrives.
2025 promises to be another year filled with opportunities to score fantastic deals on this beloved flight simulation game.
So, gear up, pilots, and prepare for takeoff!
The best deals are out there, waiting to be discovered.
And when you finally get your hands on that discounted copy, remember that feeling of triumph – the sweet victory of a gamer who knows how to play the game.
