Air Combat 22 Joins Arcade Archives 2 Series for Nintendo Switch 2 and Switch: Release Date, Features, and Pricing Revealed

Bandai Namco’s classic arcade hit Air Combat 22 is officially coming to both Nintendo Switch 2 and the original Nintendo Switch as part of the esteemed Arcade Archives series, published by Hamster Corporation.

The re-release is scheduled to arrive on July 3, 2025, bringing the iconic 3D flight shooter to a new generation of hardware and players. Originally developed by Namco (now Bandai Namco Entertainment) and launched in 1995, Air Combat 22 set a new benchmark for arcade flight games with its advanced 3D graphics and dynamic animation, powered by the "System Super 22" arcade board.

This powerhouse hardware, an upgrade from the System 22 platform, enabled Air Combat 22 to deliver visually stunning aerial combat that helped define mid-'90s gaming. With this re-release, Air Combat 22 will be a marquee title in the upcoming Arcade Archives 2 series for Nintendo Switch 2, while the Nintendo Switch version will remain under the original Arcade Archives label.

Hamster continues its commitment to authenticity, offering not just the core gameplay, but also customizable game settings, including difficulty options and legacy display modes that authentically capture the look and feel of a real arcade cabinet.

Players across both platforms can compete for high scores globally, tapping into the worldwide leaderboards and ensuring the competitive legacy of this genre-defining classic endures. As outlined by Hamster, Air Combat 22 challenges players to dominate a variety of airborne missions, from intense dogfights to technical maneuvers that put piloting skills to the test.

The game’s blend of engaging scenarios, robust 3D environments, and arcade action has earned it a reputation as a foundational title in both arcade history and the broader genre of flight shooters. The pricing for Air Combat 22 is set at $16.99 USD for the Nintendo Switch 2 version and $14.99 USD for the Nintendo Switch.

These editions underline Hamster’s ongoing dedication to preserving and celebrating arcade heritage on new hardware while providing excellent value to fans and newcomers alike. Hamster’s Arcade Archives series has faithfully recreated numerous classic games across Nintendo platforms, providing both historical context and modern features that appeal to serious enthusiasts and casual players.

With the addition of Air Combat 22, the series reinforces its status as a go-to collection for anyone interested in the rich legacy of arcade gaming. Air Combat 22 launches on July 3, 2025, on both Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch.

More updates and details about the Arcade Archives series can be found on Hamster’s official channels and across major gaming news outlets.

Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Switch Nintendo Bandai Namco Switch 2 Switch Arcade Archives 2 Arcade Archives Hamster Namco Bandai Air Combat 22 Bandai Namco Entertainment System Super 22