Leading video games developer and publisher Namco Hometek Inc. announced today the upcoming release of ACE COMBAT 5, shipping exclusively for the Sony PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system in Fall 2004. The newest instalment is the most explosive title yet in the unparalleled ACE COMBAT series. Developed by Namco Limited in Japan, ACE COMBAT 5 is set to soar as Namco's fifth instalment of the Air Combat/Ace Combat series. Introducing Wingman Command, ACE COMBAT 5 is the premier air combat game combining ultra-realistic graphics and dog fighting with the sheer excitement of commanding a squadron, knowing that their fate is in your hands.

"There is an incredible expectation of quality associated with the ACE COMBAT series," said Garry Cole, executive vice president of sales for Namco Hometek Inc. "More than one million people have enjoyed ACE COMBAT 4 and our development team has been hard at work to make sure those fans have a great sequel to look forward to. With a compelling storyline, unbelievably realistic graphics and great new exclusive features, ACE COMBAT 5 is the whole package."

With more than 50 different licensed planes and an intense storyline extending over 30 missions, players will be put to the ultimate test, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground fighting, air-to-sea assaults, rescue, recon and much more. Incorporating ultra-realistic beautifully rendered in-game graphics and cinematics along with unparalleled game play; ACE COMBAT 5 goes a step beyond the traditional air combat gaming experience.

One of the exciting new features to the sequel includes Wingman Command, where players can issue directives to their wingmen mid-mission to carry out coordinated group attacks. Additionally, the in-game radio communications with the squadron and enemies adds to the realism and intensity of the dynamic battle sequences.

In the game's premise, it is September 23, 2010 on distant Sand Island, a small island in the Ceres Ocean that divides the two superpowers, Osea and Yuktobania. An entire military base is on red alert–the 108th Tactical Fighter Squadron intercepted an unidentified aircraft and the entire squadron was decimated.

You are a fighter pilot, part of the new squadron that's been called into action to protect your nation of Osea. Now, the story begins to unfold.