Ace Combat
Development of "Mach Storm" was directed by Namco Bandai Games designer Kazushi Imoto, who is known for his work on the company's virtual reality-focused entertainment complexes. The game is based on the company's "Ace Combat" series, particularly "" (2011), and borrows many of its mechanics and assets, though it is not directly connected to the series. Inamoto worked closely with Project Aces, the internal development team behind "Ace Combat", during production. "Mach Storm" was designed to be simplistic and appeal towards a casual audience, as Inamoto wanted as many people as possible to experience the exhilarating feeling of flight. Inspiration was derived from the "Ace Combat" games, the action film "Top Gun", and other Hollywood movies.