Microsoft and The Coalition have officially announced Gears of War Reloaded, a full remaster of the original Gears of War game, set to release on August 26, 2025. This eagerly awaited title will be available on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox PC, Xbox Cloud Gaming, PlayStation 5, and Steam, marking the franchise’s debut on PlayStation hardware. Priced at $39.99, Reloaded will also launch day one on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass, making it accessible to subscribers across multiple platforms.
Gears of War: Reloaded is a celebration of a gaming icon
Gears of War Reloaded is described by Xbox as “a celebration of one of gaming’s most iconic franchises.” The remaster brings the original 2006 game forward with modern enhancements to introduce the franchise to a new generation of players, while also honoring longtime fans. It includes the full content from Gears of War: Ultimate Edition, regarded as the most complete version of the original game to date. This means players will have access to all post-launch downloadable content for free, including the bonus campaign act, all multiplayer maps and modes, and a full roster of classic characters and cosmetics unlockable through gameplay progression.
Technical Upgrades and Features
The remaster boasts significant technical improvements tailored for current-generation hardware:
- 4K resolution support (Click here to download Gears of War Reloaded screenshots)
- 60 frames per second (FPS) in Campaign mode
- 120 FPS in Multiplayer mode
- High Dynamic Range (HDR)
- Dolby Vision and 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos audio
- 7.1.4 3D Spatial Audio
- Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)
- Remastered 4K assets and textures
- Enhanced post-processing effects, including improved shadows and reflections
- Super resolution with improved anti-aliasing
- Zero loading screens during Campaign
These upgrades ensure a visually stunning and smooth gameplay experience, both in the single-player campaign and the competitive multiplayer modes.
Multiplayer and Cross-Platform Play
Gears of War: Reloaded is designed for shared play experiences. The Campaign supports two-player cooperative play, while the Versus Multiplayer mode accommodates up to eight players. Importantly, the game supports cross-play and cross-progression across all platforms-Xbox, PC, and PlayStation 5-allowing friends to squad up regardless of their device. Notably, a Microsoft account is not required to play on PlayStation or PC, but signing in unlocks full cross-platform functionality, including the ability to send invites and carry progress across devices.
Free Upgrade for Ultimate Edition Owners
As a gesture of appreciation to longtime fans, those who own the digital version of Gears of War: Ultimate Edition will receive a free upgrade to Gears of War: Reloaded. This offer extends to Xbox console and Microsoft Store customers who purchased the previous remaster, ensuring they can enjoy the latest enhancements without additional cost.
The Franchise’s 20th Anniversary
The release of Gears of War: Reloaded comes just shy of the franchise’s 20th anniversary in 2026. Mike Crump, Studio Head at The Coalition, reflected on the milestone, emphasizing the franchise’s legacy of storytelling, friendships, and unforgettable gaming moments. With this remaster, the team aims to open the door to more players than ever before, bridging generations of gamers with the definitive way to experience the game that started it all.
Availability and Pricing
- Release Date: August 26, 2025
- Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox PC, Xbox Cloud Gaming, PlayStation 5, Steam
- Price: $39.99 (free for digital owners of Gears of War: Ultimate Edition)
- Available: Day One on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass
Gears of War: Reloaded promises to be a landmark release that revitalizes a beloved classic with cutting-edge technology and multiplatform accessibility, ensuring the franchise’s legacy continues strong into the future.
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