Microsoft is set to expand its gaming universe by bringing another beloved franchise to PlayStation this year, with the release of a refreshed edition of the iconic Gears of War.
Titled Gears of War: Reloaded, this announcement coincides with nearly two decades since the franchise first launched on Xbox.
The reimagined version of the original Gears of War is set to hit PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S on August 26. Priced at $40, it will also be accessible through Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.
Developed by The Coalition in collaboration with Sumo Interactive and Disbelief, Gears of War: Reloaded promises an enhanced gaming experience with increased frame rates and “greater visual fidelity,” as per Microsoft’s statements. Gamers can anticipate a level of “clarity, smoothness, and immersion” that takes full advantage of modern hardware capabilities.
As detailed in a recent Xbox post, players can look forward to several impressive upgrades upon the game’s summer release:
- 4K resolution
- 60 FPS in Campaign mode
- 120 FPS in Multiplayer
- High Dynamic Range (HDR)
- Dolby Vision and 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos support
- 7.1.4 3D Spatial Audio
- Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)
- 4K assets and remastered textures
- Enhanced post-processing visual effects
- Improved shadow and reflection quality
- Advanced anti-aliasing with super resolution
- No loading screens during Campaign mode
Gears of War: Reloaded will also feature platform-specific enhancements and will support cross-play and cross-progression, ensuring a broader multiplayer experience.
For players who already own the digital copy of Gears of War: Ultimate Edition, there’s good news: a free upgrade to Gears of War: Reloaded is available, but only for those who purchased the game before today’s announcement. If you buy Gears of War: Ultimate Edition now, unfortunately, you won’t be eligible for the free upgrade when Reloaded comes out.
“As we near the 20th anniversary of Gears of War in 2026, we are reflecting on the impact of this franchise,” said Mike Crump, head of The Coalition. “It’s about the tales we’ve woven, the friendships forged, and the unforgettable experiences shared.”
He further emphasized, “With Gears of War: Reloaded, we are inviting a wider audience to join us on this journey.”
Looking ahead, fans can anticipate Gears of War: E-Day, a prequel that is set 14 years before the original game. This exciting installment is being co-developed with People Can Fly.
Late last year, it was confirmed that voice actors John DiMaggio and Carlos Ferro will return to reprise their characters Marcus Fenix and Dominic Santiago in Gears of War: E-Day.
