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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesYou don’t need to finish an older Ace Combat campaign before starting Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve. If you want one game for optional series context, play Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown. For a shorter story lead-in, watch Bandai Namco’s four-part live-action prequel HOUR ZERO. The official material reviewed identifies no required predecessor.
Which game should you play first?
If you want to play one game: Ace Combat 7
Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown is the clearest one-game recommendation for context, not a confirmed prerequisite. Bandai Namco links to it from the official Ace Combat 8 site, and PlayStation includes it among the games set in Strangereal, the series’ shared fictional world. Those links make AC7 a practical starting point if you want to sample the setting before AC8; they do not establish that AC8 depends on its plot. PlayStation’s announcement names AC3, AC4, AC5, ZERO, X, AC6, AC7 and AC8 as Strangereal entries.
If you want a short lead-in: HOUR ZERO
Bandai Namco describes HOUR ZERO as a four-part live-action prequel made to introduce fans and newcomers to AC8’s story. It is the most direct option if you want an official lead-in without taking on another game campaign. Bandai Namco’s launch announcement identifies it as a prequel.
If you want more series history
PlayStation’s shared-world list also includes Ace Combat 3, Ace Combat 4, Ace Combat 5, Ace Combat Zero, Ace Combat X and Ace Combat 6. They are options for exploring Strangereal across more of the franchise, rather than games shown by the official material to be necessary for AC8.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
What context does Ace Combat 8 provide?
AC8 tells a new conflict centered on the Federation of Central Usea (FCU), occupied by the Republic of Sotoa. The player takes the title “Wings of Theve,” associated with the FCU capital, and fights alongside Joker Flight to reclaim the homeland. Bandai Namco announced the game as a mainline entry set in Strangereal, with a campaign concerned with identity and duty. The announcement gives the premise; it does not say that understanding an earlier campaign is required.
The story is set in July 2029, according to ACES WEB. That date is part of AC8’s fictional chronology, not a real-world release or historical date.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Choose by the kind of catch-up you want
| Option | What it offers | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown | A game in the shared Strangereal setting; the clearest optional one-game pick in the official material reviewed. | Players who want to play a campaign before AC8. |
| HOUR ZERO | A four-part live-action prequel that Bandai Namco says introduces viewers to AC8’s story. | Players who want a shorter, story-focused lead-in. |
| AC3, AC4, AC5, ZERO, X or AC6 | Other games PlayStation identifies as part of Strangereal. | Players interested in broader series history. |
| Start AC8 directly | No predecessor is identified as required in the official material reviewed. | Players who want to begin with the new game. |
The official sources reviewed do not provide comparable completion-time estimates, so this guide does not rank the options by hours. Choose based on whether you’d rather play another campaign, watch the named prequel, or start AC8 now.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When did Ace Combat 8 come out?
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve released worldwide on October 2, 2026, after early access began September 29. Bandai Namco lists PS5, Xbox Series X|S and PC via Steam for the early-access launch. See the launch announcement for those platform and date details.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
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