Ace Combat 5: The Unsung War

 PlayStation 2
User Score
8.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 154 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 141 out of 154
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 154
  3. Negative: 9 out of 154
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  1. The1stGodfather
    Feb 13, 2012
    10
    This game is incredible. Although the actual game-play graphics are rather poor, the CGI animations during cut scenes is so high-quality that there are even a couple of small moments when I mistake them for real actors. The plot is incredible, and is not just another cheap war game where you work your way into the enemy and hit their capital and wipe them out. The whole complication withThis game is incredible. Although the actual game-play graphics are rather poor, the CGI animations during cut scenes is so high-quality that there are even a couple of small moments when I mistake them for real actors. The plot is incredible, and is not just another cheap war game where you work your way into the enemy and hit their capital and wipe them out. The whole complication with the Gray Men of Belka made it really interesting, especially with the 8492nd Squadron and Captain Hamilton. Like the previous game in the series, Shattered Skies (A.K.A. Distant Thunder in Europe), it does not take the war lightly. For example, in the mission where you escort the Kestrel and other ships out of Port Hewlett, there is a brief cut scene in the middle, which is appropriate seeing as this is the first mission that you fight planes that aren't unmanned aerial drones, in which the news reporter narrates seeing living people drowning in the ocean after shooting down the Yuktobanian planes, and becomes emotional and begins saying "Just stop this! I can't take it anymore!" This game amazes me even further with the new addition of commands to your wingmen. The action your wingmen take can really change the course of the battle, because they do not go off and clear out enemies if you have them following you in cover-mode the whole battle.… Expand
  2. Shika
    Jul 2, 2012
    9
    This game is the most consistent out of all the Ace Combats, the roster is simply perfect, unlocked by playing the missions and by scoring points with them you unlock their variants, and you get to personally choose the layout of your unit, while your wingmen don't help out drastically, it still helps to arrange them based on the mission as described in your brief. Missions also change,This game is the most consistent out of all the Ace Combats, the roster is simply perfect, unlocked by playing the missions and by scoring points with them you unlock their variants, and you get to personally choose the layout of your unit, while your wingmen don't help out drastically, it still helps to arrange them based on the mission as described in your brief. Missions also change, some start out as full-on ground attack missions and instantly switch to a named squadron battle where a fighter helps out immensely. Missions layout is great, with variety and a few missions purely based on story telling, they really improve the quality of the story telling but some replay value is lost in them. The characters are great save for Nagase, she annoys the hell out of me. AC5 sets up the story exceedingly well, adding in memorable characters and pasts. The story is dynamic and twists and turns, with you becoming friends with some unexpected characters and past friends becoming enemies. The soundtrack is excellent as always, with some real gems showing through the all-around good orchestral pieces. The game does a good job of rewarding people who play through it 5+ times by adding in hidden plane parts to build an expensive fictional aircraft. The cinematics are downright beautiful, even to this date they rival today's AAA titles, with even AC6 not being as good. The game has a breathtaking climax. However, the dialogue gets a tad cheesy at times(mainly with Nagase), and all around really gets better with later characters like Pops added in.… Expand
  3. Radioactivebuny
    Sep 2, 2014
    10
    Even today, a decade later, those characters I flew with for so many hours as a child are among the most memorable and beloved I know. Ace Combat 5 still soars as a dramatic, poetic anti-war story even today, so many years later. Blue skies, everyone.
  4. Grabacr
    Jan 7, 2014
    10
    As you might have guessed from my username this is one of my all-time favorite games. Everything about it is perfect, with the possible exception of Nagase's voice actor (in the English version), whom I was not a huge fan of. Two thumbs up without a doubt.
  5. RyuuGP
    Jun 14, 2014
    10
    this is by far the best ace combat game i have ever played. it has some unique missions, beautiful soundtrack, some good characters, great development, and great story. great story and development are 2 things that i really love. the development i mean is the fact that the more you play the campaign, you and your team will be more feared by your enemy, your team mates will call you ACE OFthis is by far the best ace combat game i have ever played. it has some unique missions, beautiful soundtrack, some good characters, great development, and great story. great story and development are 2 things that i really love. the development i mean is the fact that the more you play the campaign, you and your team will be more feared by your enemy, your team mates will call you ACE OF ACES and you will feel like ONE, and it feels really GREAT. it and the engaging story: there are sorrow, betrayed, proud and more; mixed with beautiful soundtrack and epic mission, they make the game indescribable moments. you have to play it yourself.… Expand
  6. homer4president
    Mar 25, 2015
    10
    This game is nearly perfect- but with 1 major flaw. It lacks multiplayer capability. In an age where games are not only multiplayer, but online capable, a great game such as this made only for 1 person is a HUGE letdown. I would've liked to see 2-4 player campaigns, maybe an arcade where you can fight allied or against each other, let alone some online action. I was really looking forwardThis game is nearly perfect- but with 1 major flaw. It lacks multiplayer capability. In an age where games are not only multiplayer, but online capable, a great game such as this made only for 1 person is a HUGE letdown. I would've liked to see 2-4 player campaigns, maybe an arcade where you can fight allied or against each other, let alone some online action. I was really looking forward to this since Ace Combat 4's less-than-satisfying multiplayer mode. However, if you are able to look passed this major flaw, this game is in all aspects PERFECT… Expand
  7. Ishi123
    Jan 25, 2019
    10
    The best Ace Combat title there is and my personal favorite game ever. Amazing story, tons of planes to choose from, great mission variety, spectacular music. The graphics are a little dated, and even the update on the PS4 can only make the models sharper and clear out some busted particle effects from the PS2 version, but it's still an incredible game that stands the test of time even toThe best Ace Combat title there is and my personal favorite game ever. Amazing story, tons of planes to choose from, great mission variety, spectacular music. The graphics are a little dated, and even the update on the PS4 can only make the models sharper and clear out some busted particle effects from the PS2 version, but it's still an incredible game that stands the test of time even to this day.… Expand
  8. dam1730
    Jun 23, 2013
    10
    Ace Combat 5 is the best game of the Ace Combat series in my opinion. First of all, this game is much longer than the other two games on the PS2 having nearly thirty missions while the other games have around 18. Secondly, I like how this game incorporates the squadron as a whole, while AC04 is solo and ACZero is a duo. You actually grow to know your squadmates as the story goes on andAce Combat 5 is the best game of the Ace Combat series in my opinion. First of all, this game is much longer than the other two games on the PS2 having nearly thirty missions while the other games have around 18. Secondly, I like how this game incorporates the squadron as a whole, while AC04 is solo and ACZero is a duo. You actually grow to know your squadmates as the story goes on and more is revealed about them. Thirdly, this is the most challenging of the PS2 games in my opinion. I'm pretty good at flight sims and there were a few missions that I had a difficult time with. The challenge enhances the experience in my opinion. The storyline for this game is one of the most unpredictable I've come across in gaming, especially for the game being almost completely linear in nature, which is the only drawback in comparison to Ace Combat Zero. As far as overall gameplay goes, it obviously isn't the most realistic game out there, but the lack of realism makes the game more fun because nobody wants to only have 4 missiles and have to worry about blacking out. I don't give out tens often, but I feel this game really earns it based on the storyline and the gameplay which are both great in their own ways.… Expand
  9. caligula_king
    Oct 3, 2015
    4
    No me llego ha gustarme cuando lo tuve hace tiempo . Hay gente que seguro que le gusto o le gustara , pero para mi no dio la talla . Me decepciono , por suerte lo tenia pirata y no me gaste nada por el
  10. Cjstaal
    Jan 4, 2005
    10
    This game is amazing.
  11. MatthewC.
    Jan 5, 2006
    10
    This is definately the BEST air combat game for the PS2!
  12. RichardC.
    Nov 10, 2004
    10
    Rumors on the web tells me that this game is better that AC4.Well, they have also said that this is a outstanding game with awsome graphics, thrilling storyline, and full of drama. The also added a new wingman command to thi game as well. I hope that these rumors are true because i will be getting this soon and will play to determine if this game hold up to the status of this quiet hoopla.
  13. AlphaB.
    Oct 31, 2004
    10
    Just Awesome!!!
  14. JacksonR.
    Apr 1, 2005
    9
    Really good game, no seriously, REALLY good game.
  15. GhostO.
    May 21, 2005
    10
    All other flight-combat game manufacturers...bow down before the new gods of flight gaming! AC5:UW is a dream come true, from the plot depth, character depth, sound, visuals, music, controls, options, unlockables... it leaves the competition reaching for the eject handle and incinerating in it's afterburners. Fly or die, AC5:UW !
  16. BrettF.
    Aug 21, 2005
    10
    Wonderful game. Best ever.
  17. JesseL.
    Dec 9, 2006
    10
    Great Storyline, a ton a missions, planes, targets. The best game in the series, and great graphics, but could be a bit more realistic.
  18. AnsonG.
    Apr 5, 2006
    10
    Very good, Namco. This game is best i ever played.
  19. StevenK.
    Nov 1, 2004
    10
    The graphics are awesome it has a great storyline and there are many planes to choose from. goerge W. all the wa.y
  20. JamesY.
    Dec 10, 2004
    10
    This is by far the best combat flight game i have ever played. Graphics holy sh*t they rule and gameplay is sweet i just wish you could eject from the plane like you could in Ace Combat 4 not Ace Combat 4 shattered skies. but sh.t i love it.
  21. Fighter17
    Dec 25, 2004
    9
    Very good game, wonderful FMVs, and a good storyline for this game.
  22. AbelM.
    Oct 25, 2004
    10
    This game makes an outstanding attempt to put together a story line with high-flying action and looks great doing it. If you are a fan of the previous Ace Combat games and even if you are new to the genre you should give this one a go.
  23. AceR.
    Oct 27, 2004
    8
    Fun game that looks beautiful. I have always had a soft spot for this franchise since the PS1 days. Really stretches the capabilities of the PS2. The game would realize it's full potential on the XBox.
  24. WhiteWarrior
    Jan 14, 2005
    10
    It's not very often that I give a game a perfect 10, but this game most definitely deserves it. The graphics are absolutely phenomenal, the game play and controller response is superb, the storyline is intriguing and keeps you immersed in the game, and it surprises me that no one else in this review has mentioned the intensely realistic sound effects. From the jet wash, (I play with It's not very often that I give a game a perfect 10, but this game most definitely deserves it. The graphics are absolutely phenomenal, the game play and controller response is superb, the storyline is intriguing and keeps you immersed in the game, and it surprises me that no one else in this review has mentioned the intensely realistic sound effects. From the jet wash, (I play with a 5.1 digital surround sound system and with the sub woofer turned up it sounds like the U.S.A.F. is doing flyby's over my house) to the explosions from long distances. I was lucky enough to be able to purchase the flight stick that was included with this game as a limited edition and this game is as close to flying the real thing as it gets. A no-brainer for anyone interested in flying the unfriendly skies.… Expand
  25. KurtisC.
    Mar 31, 2005
    10
    Best flight game i ever played.
  26. KevinR.
    Nov 24, 2004
    8
    Where is the online play? If they want to get rid of the two player dog fights, then why not add on online play. It would have been great. Namco had plenty of time to do it.
  27. DGDrocks7
    May 3, 2014
    9
    A completely underrated game. Flying games are usually frowned upon by everyone, but if only they played the Ace Combat series, then they'll regret any ill thought they have towards the flight genre. Of course there are flying games that are terrible, but the Ace Combat series is not only not terrible, but superb, especially Ace Combat 5. This has the most aircraft in the series to dateA completely underrated game. Flying games are usually frowned upon by everyone, but if only they played the Ace Combat series, then they'll regret any ill thought they have towards the flight genre. Of course there are flying games that are terrible, but the Ace Combat series is not only not terrible, but superb, especially Ace Combat 5. This has the most aircraft in the series to date (50+ licensed aircraft plus a few fictional ones). The story is also amazing. In an fictional version of Earth (we fans dub it "Strangereal"), a war has broken out between two countries, Osea and Yuktobania. The characters are quite memorable, and you'll experience a surprising plot twist. The gameplay is amazing and easy to play. The graphics, for a 10 year old game, is stunning. Get this game because it's cheap and amazing. It can hold its own to today's games. Make an HD remake of this game already, Namco!… Expand
  28. emlugo123
    Feb 23, 2015
    9
    Another great storyline added into the Ace Combat 5 franchise. This and Ace Combat 04 are the only games that I love playing the missions over and over again to unlock the new planes with new skins and abilities.
  29. Empyrea
    May 10, 2016
    8
    This simulator is awesome. I've only played half of the missions but it's a really good game, although for me, that I don't have English as my mother tongue, sometimes it was anoying with all the conversation while I was fighting. The graphics of the aircrafts were really good for that time but the field was awful, although I know the field, it wasn't the most important thing in this game.This simulator is awesome. I've only played half of the missions but it's a really good game, although for me, that I don't have English as my mother tongue, sometimes it was anoying with all the conversation while I was fighting. The graphics of the aircrafts were really good for that time but the field was awful, although I know the field, it wasn't the most important thing in this game. The soundrack was really good as well. I mean I still remember the music when the captain was explaining the missions. It made you feel like if you were a true pilot. Do you want to know how to fly and aircraft? Just buy it! If I get the ps4, probably I'll buy Ace Combat 7.… Expand
  30. Lewis-Angelo
    Feb 8, 2019
    10
    jugada la versión remasterizada en PS4

    sin duda AC5 es el mejor Ace Combat de la saga, la banda sonora, la historia, la progresión, los aviones, la rejugabilidad, poder montar tu propio escuadron amarillo... dar órdenes a los compañeros, el marcador de vida de los objetivos en el radar, los giros argumentales, misiones bien medidas en las que vamos justos de armamento, buenos    jugada la versión remasterizada en PS4

    sin duda AC5 es el mejor Ace Combat de la saga, la banda sonora, la historia, la progresión, los aviones, la rejugabilidad, poder montar tu propio escuadron amarillo...

    dar órdenes a los compañeros, el marcador de vida de los objetivos en el radar, los giros argumentales, misiones bien medidas en las que vamos justos de armamento, buenos personajes...
    todo es digno de mención y está perfectamente resuelto

    incluso la Operación Katina en el modo arcade está muy bien para ensalzar a Mobius 1

    AC5>AC7>AC4>ACZero>ACInfinity>AC2>AC3>AC1    … Expand
  31. frederik1478
    Jan 12, 2022
    6
    I liked areCombat 5 my biggest problem the story feels too cheasy with the big conspiracy theory Think and I think the game was too long but all other parts are just as good as a normal areCombat game. i just think i would have liked the story more remind more of 4 or zero It feels very strange they sit and call you Captain and everything even if you never say anything back to the isI liked areCombat 5 my biggest problem the story feels too cheasy with the big conspiracy theory Think and I think the game was too long but all other parts are just as good as a normal areCombat game. i just think i would have liked the story more remind more of 4 or zero It feels very strange they sit and call you Captain and everything even if you never say anything back to the is meaningful… Expand
  32. JamesDrawsThngs
    Aug 24, 2020
    9
    The PS2 series of Ace Combat games are often seen as the crown jewel of the entire franchise. Whether you prefer Shattered Skies, The Unsung War or the Belkan War, there was no real wrong answer. If people really had to choose, I often hear AC5 as their preferred choice, and it's absolutely understandable why. Ace Combat 5 was able to move the series forward in a lot of different ways,The PS2 series of Ace Combat games are often seen as the crown jewel of the entire franchise. Whether you prefer Shattered Skies, The Unsung War or the Belkan War, there was no real wrong answer. If people really had to choose, I often hear AC5 as their preferred choice, and it's absolutely understandable why. Ace Combat 5 was able to move the series forward in a lot of different ways, from storytelling to mission variety. While I still hold nostalgic value for AC04, AC5 is still a more than worthy addition.

    The game takes place in the fictional setting of Strangereal in the year 2010. The country of Yuktobonia has just declared war on the Osea Federation, and it's up to you and your ragtag team of wingmen to put a stop to it all. While having knowledge of a few AC games is helpful, The Unsung War works just fine as a stand-alone narrative with likable characters and an interesting narrative with some genuine surprises thrown in, as well as the usual AC staples. It is certainly much more story heavy compared to AC04, with moments of character development and much more personal stakes compared to previous games. The game also looks just as great as AC04 and the soundtrack is once again brilliant.

    Like previous games, the game is an arcade-style flight sim where you tackle a variety of missions ranging from destroying all indicated targets, to reconnaissance, to defeating large-scale machines. AC5 offers a lot more mission variety compared to its predecessor, which is perfect for those who would feel the previous games got too repetitive. Controls are once again silky smooth and, in fact, feel much more refined. You can also give basic command to your teammates, like having them cover you, spreading out and doing whatever they wish or being directed toward a specific target. The AI is surprisingly effective, able to help you take down enemy aircraft without weakened firepower. There's a solid variety of aircraft to choose from, and you'll need to pick and choose the best ones for you and your team to get the job done. Sadly, like in previous games, there are no mid-level check points, so if you die just before the end of a long mission, you're gonna have to start all over.

    As I've said, I still have more of an affinity to AC04 just simply on the basis of nostalgia, but there is no denying that AC5 is a fantastic game, and an absolute must-play for those getting into the series or those just looking for a fun arcade flight game with an engrossing story to accompany it.    … Expand
  33. SWPixy02
    Oct 13, 2020
    10
    Contiene una de las mejores historias del mundo y increíble banda sonora!!
  34. Giraffeman
    Jul 29, 2021
    10
    This is a game I hold fondly in my heart. I absolutely love everything that Ace Combat 5 has to offer. On paper it doesn’t seem like much but when you play through the game for the first time you will feel as if you’ve experienced the greatest game ever. The story is so amazingly well written and paced perfectly. The combat is classic ace combat that you’d expect. Each level is unique andThis is a game I hold fondly in my heart. I absolutely love everything that Ace Combat 5 has to offer. On paper it doesn’t seem like much but when you play through the game for the first time you will feel as if you’ve experienced the greatest game ever. The story is so amazingly well written and paced perfectly. The combat is classic ace combat that you’d expect. Each level is unique and nothing ever feels repetitive due to the great choice of objectives. The characters are all so engaging and convincing. They all felt like genuinely real people, not just npc’s. For how little you actually see these characters in person I found it incredible how much you grow fond of them just by hearing their voices and not actually seeing them all that much. I give a huge congratulations to the voice actors who did such a great job. The plane selection is massive and that there are about 50 unique aircrafts to choose from ranging from small interceptors, to medium sized fighters, to heavy attack planes. You also have 3 wingman under your control and the game allows you to not only chose a plane for yourself but for your wingman too. Combine that with the fact than you can give your wingman in game orders and commands, it really makes for some engaging gameplay you don’t see in too many other games. I believe there are about 30 playable missions all of exceptionally well designed playing areas and great in game objectives. The replay ability is quite strong too. You’ve also got arcade mode and that’s always a blast as well, but you’ll spend most of your time in the story. The last thing I want to talk about is the soundtrack, because believe me it’s absolutely incredible. It’s probably the best soundtrack in any game I’ve ever played... and I’ve played many many games in my time. Every track suits the mission so well. It just really brings the game to life. Speaking of which at the time I’m writing this one of the soundtracks was actually featured in the opening ceremony of the Tokyo Summer Olympics. Don’t believe me look it up. Anyways, in a nutshell this game is a holy gem that no other ace combat game comes close to being, sorry Ace Combat 4. I highly recommend just about anyone to play this game, because even if you aren’t really into flying games all that much I can promise you you’ll love it. There are two types of people in the world... people who love Ace Combat 5 or people who have never played Ace Combat 5. You either love it or have never played it... and I love it.… Expand
  35. VanCan72
    Apr 4, 2021
    10
    Everything that worked for AC4 comes back and is better than ever. The speed is still there, the variation of missions and the tenseness that sets in during missions all comes back. Now you're in charge of a squad of 3 other pilots who are fleshed out characters that you get attached to really quickly as you all ride or die together in a campaign that honestly feels like a HollywoodEverything that worked for AC4 comes back and is better than ever. The speed is still there, the variation of missions and the tenseness that sets in during missions all comes back. Now you're in charge of a squad of 3 other pilots who are fleshed out characters that you get attached to really quickly as you all ride or die together in a campaign that honestly feels like a Hollywood blockbuster in its presentation but it honestly feels so right in the way it comes across with cutscenes and full dialogue between characters. Like I said, this is basically Ace Combat 4's foundation but with more added onto it and it culminates in a great story and an even better game that I found to be an absolute delight to play… Expand
  36. DivN
    Jun 11, 2022
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Uno de los mejores ace combat de PS hasta la fecha. La historia genera una atmósfera que provoca que quieras continuarla en especial cuando empiezas con los demons of razgriz… Expand
  37. dedmin2009
    Aug 31, 2022
    10
    Es un buen juego y considero que es el mejor de la saga, este juego al principio no se entiende pero si te quedas un poco más ya le vas a ver lo divertido y a mí me suele dejar enganchado no se a ustedes.

Awards & Rankings

25
#25 Best PS2 Game of 2004
27
#27 Most Discussed PS2 Game of 2004
18
#18 Most Shared PS2 Game of 2004

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
84

Generally favorable reviews - based on 57 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 50 out of 57
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 57
  3. Negative: 0 out of 57
  1. GamerFeed
    80
    The lack of multiplayer or online play does hurt the title a bit, especially when multiplayer has been included in previous Ace Combat titles.
    Read full review
  2. GamePro
    80
    For veterans, it'll feel like the same gameplay found in all previous Ace Combat games--and that's not necessarily a bad thing considering this is a shooter that's still worthy of sitting in first class.
    Read full review
  3. Official U.S. Playstation Magazine
    80
    The trouble is, all this story is presented with some of the most god-awful writing and voice work I've ever heard. [Dec 2004, p.112]
See all critic reviews »