Gears 5 gets Halo: Reach character pack, character-based 'Horde' mode

What you need to know

  • Gears 5 is an upcoming third-person shooter from The Coalition.
  • The title features 60 Hz servers for the first time.
  • The game is getting a Halo: Reach character pack.
  • You can preorder Gears 5 for $50 on Amazon.

Gears 5 is an upcoming third-person shooter from Microsoft's The Coalition. The studio has worked on Gears of War 4 in the past, and it wants to make the sequel an even bigger adventure. The title is also more advanced on a technical front. According to Gears 5's Multiplayer Design Director, the franchise will feature 60 Hz servers for the first time.

At Gamescom 2019, The Coalition revealed the game's new Horde mode which adds unique gameplay features and the Ultimate Abilities. According to the team, very Horde character will have a unique Ultimate. Luckily, this extends to crossover characters like Sarah Connor from Terminator: Dark Fate. However, the stars of the show have to be Spartans Kat and Emile from the Halo: Reach Character Pack. The Halo: Reach Character Pack also includes a variety of Noble Team cosmetics to choose from like a Noble Team Jack Skin, Noble Team Banner, Noble Team Blood Spray, Noble Team Mark, and the Noble Team Weapon Set. The coveted is included as part of Gears 5: Ultimate Edition on Xbox One, Windows 10, and Steam, and with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

The Coalition said that "Horde continues the evolution of the fan-favorite multiplayer mode that has become a cornerstone of the franchise." The team added that the new "character-based gameplay mechanics" enhance the experience because "each character has their own personality, progression, playstyle, and legacy that they bring to the table."

If you're a fan of Jack the robot, you can now play as him in Horde mode. However, it seems like he'll also be a playable character during the campaign based on the game's Xbox Achievements. Jack doesn't need cover and can buff nearby players or hack enemies.

Lastly, if you're a fan of the AAPE Capsule Collection, then you'll be excited to know that it's partnered with Microsoft for Gears 5 merchandise. You get some in-game bonuses too, so be sure to check it out!

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Asher Madan

Asher Madan handles gaming news for Windows Central. Before joining Windows Central in 2017, Asher worked for a number of different gaming outlets. He has a background in medical science and is passionate about all forms of entertainment, cooking, and antiquing.