Ace Combat 8, the next instalment in Bandai Namco's aerial combat series, will reportedly include online airbase lobbies where players can hang around as a customised pilot avatar between missions or matches. The feature suggests a more social, persistent-world element to the game, letting players show off a bespoke "pilotsona" to others rather than only interacting through menus or in-flight.

Beyond the headline detail, no further specifics on release date, platforms or how the lobbies integrate with multiplayer modes were available in the source material, as the article's full text was not accessible. The report originates from PC Gamer, which frames the addition as a fun, unexpected social touch for a series traditionally focused on solo and competitive flight combat.