Ace Combat 7 Just Hit 7 Million Sales — What's Their Secret?

We've tracked the trajectory of countless franchises over our two decades in this industry, and few stories land as powerfully as the one unfolding for Ace Combat. When a title not only hits a monumental sales milestone but also single-handedly redefines its series' standing, that's not just news—it's a paradigm shift. Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown has officially soared past the seven million units sold mark, a truly staggering achievement that firmly entrenches its legacy and lays a concrete runway for the next generation.

This isn't merely about hitting a big number; it’s about sustained, undeniable growth. Our analysis shows AC7 has shifted an astonishing one million copies in the last year alone. Remember, Bandai Namco announced six million units back in January 2025, which means the game is still pulling significant numbers years after its January 18, 2019, launch. This isn't a fluke; it's a testament to smart strategy and a quality product.

So, what fueled this late-game surge? We point to a few key power plays from the publisher:

• Strategic Post-Launch Content: The post-release support has been stellar, including that brilliant crossover with Top Gun: Maverick. That was a clutch move, tapping into mainstream hype while delivering content that felt authentic to the Ace Combat experience.
• Platform Expansion: Porting to PC and the Nintendo Switch was a masterstroke, opening up vast new player bases. This wasn't just about accessibility; it was about market dominance.
• Aggressive Pricing: Smart, aggressive price promotions across all platforms have ensured AC7 remains an irresistible proposition for fence-sitters and newcomers alike. It's a classic move to convert interest into sales, and it clearly paid off.

But here's the kicker, the stat that truly resonates with us veteran pilots: the entire Ace Combat series has sold 21 million units globally. Ace Combat 7, by itself, accounts for a full one-third of all franchise sales to date. Think about that for a moment. A single entry, almost six years in, is carrying the torch with an intensity we haven't seen in years. It’s not just popular; it’s a modern classic that’s revitalized a beloved IP.

This success isn't just retrospective; it's forward-looking. This explosive popularity for AC7 means the brand has never been stronger, never had more momentum. This isn't just a "strong foundation" for the upcoming sequel, Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve; it's a mandate. It's a clear signal from the player base that the hunger for high-octane, fantastical air combat is alive and well.

The timing of the Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve reveal, soaring onto PS5 in 2026, alongside this news isn't coincidental; it's a strategically executed one-two punch. The stage is set, the engines are warmed, and the sky belongs to Ace Combat. We're ready for takeoff.

Ace Combat 7: Key Milestones

Franchise Impact:

• Total Ace Combat Series Sales: 21 Million Units
• AC7's Share of Total Sales: Approximately 1/3

Upcoming: Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve (PS5, 2026)