October 25^th, 2004 (11:56am) - Namco Hometek Inc. announced today the next installment in its premier aerial combat franchise, Ace Combat 5: The Unsung War, has shipped to North American retail outlets. Developed by Namco Ltd. in Japan, Ace Combat 5 is available exclusively for the PlayStation 2.

"Prepare to take flight ­ Ace Combat 5 is finally here," said Garry Cole, executive vice president at Namco Hometek Inc. "With a diverse offering of missions and fast-paced action spread across spectacular landscapes, Ace Combat 5 is destined to fly into the hearts of newcomers and long-time franchise fans this fall."

Ace Combat 5 engages players in detailed dog fighting missions and intense squadron command to deliver the most invigorating experience to date in the renowned Ace Combat franchise of games. Players will find themselves entrenched in an unforgettable aerial experience as they aim to complete more than 30 missions ranging from air-to-air combat, air-to-ground fighting, air-to-sea assaults, rescue, recon and more. Impressive graphics created with satellite imagery and 3D models heighten the action in Ace Combat 5, as players travel over breathtaking environments inspired by recognizable real-world landscapes in more than 50 authentic licensed planes.

With its inclusion of Wingman Command, players of Ace Combat 5 can issue mid-mission directives to three wingmen and carry out coordinated group attacks. Players can also experience the game¹s addictive Arcade Mode, which puts reflexes to the test through fast-paced missions measuring speed and accuracy. In addition, in-game radio communications lend depth, strategy and realism to the game¹s dynamic battle sequences.