I’ve been thinking about how Ace Combat missions could introduce a bit more realism without sacrificing the signature arcade feel that defines the series.
Instead of having a fixed mission timer, what if the game used a fuel system for your aircraft?
So basically:
▪︎ Your mission duration is limited by fuel rather than a countdown
▪︎ Afterburner usage, high-G maneuvers, and speed would increase fuel consumption
▪︎ You’d have to manage throttle and flight profile more strategically
▪︎ Maybe even include mid-air refueling or return-to-base options depending on the mission
I feel like this could add a layer of realism and decision-making without necessarily turning the game into a full sim.
But I’m also wondering about the downsides:
• Would it make missions too restrictive or stressful?
• Could it take away from the arcade-style fun that Ace Combat is known for?
• How would it affect mission design, especially large-scale operations?
Curious to hear all of your thoughts.
Threw in the Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War poster since it's kinda special-my first Ace Combat experience