Gears of War: Reloaded

Gears of War: Reloaded is an enhanced port of Gears of War: Ultimate Edition, the 2015 remaster of the original 2006 game. Co-developed by The Coalition, Sumo Digital, and Disbelief, it launches on August 26, 2025 for Xbox Series X/S, Windows (Microsoft Store and Steam), and for the first time PlayStation 5.

Technical and Gameplay Enhancements

Ultimate Edition kept the feel of the Xbox 360 game but improved its look and sound. Reloaded takes it further: the campaign runs at 4K and 60fps with HDR and VRR, multiplayer targets 120fps for a smoother feel, and spatial audio adds more depth to the sound.

The game retains the series’ signature third-person, cover-based shooting, with both single-player and multiplayer modes.

Cross-Platform Features

With a Microsoft Account, your campaign and multiplayer progress carries over no matter where you play. You can team up with friends on Xbox, PC, or PS5 for both versus matches and co-op story runs. It’s the first time gears has offered full cross-play across every major platform.

Weapon Improvements and Combat Feel

One notable fix carried over from Ultimate Edition is the Gnasher Shotgun’s consistent pellet spread. This replaced the earlier randomized spread that caused reliability issues at close range. Expect the same refined aiming behavior, along with the original game’s well-regarded cover mechanics and close-quarters combat.

Additional Campaign Content

Reloaded includes all enhancements from Ultimate Edition, such as the five extra single-player chapters originally exclusive to the 2007 PC version. These take place between Acts IV and V, showing Delta Squad’s escape from a Brumak and ending with a boss fight against it.

The ending cutscene also features the Locust Queen, Myrrah, replacing the voice-only reveal from the original. All post-launch DLC from Ultimate Edition, including extra maps, skins, and cosmetics, is bundled in.

Story Overview

The campaign follows Delta Squad in their fight against the Locust Horde, an underground enemy intent on destroying humanity. It combines military action with horror, balancing squad dialogue, large-scale battles, and smaller, more personal moments.

Past Reception

When Ultimate Edition released in 2015, the Xbox One version received generally favorable reviews (Metacritic: 82/100). Critics praised the upgraded visuals, sound, and faithful gameplay.

At release, the PC version struggled with performance on AMD hardware due to its DirectX 12 setup, but later patches improved stability. Reviewers noted the maps and enemy AI felt dated, though the combat still delivered a strong gameplay experience.

Key features:

• The definitive modern version of the first Gears
• 4K/60fps campaign, 120fps multiplayer, HDR, and VRR support
• PC-exclusive chapters, additional maps, and DLC included
• Play with friends across Xbox, PC, and PS5