Gears of War 4: The Ultimate Buyer's Guide

The worldwide release of Gears of War 4 is just around the corner, bringing the Gears of War franchise into the current generation. With Gears of War 4 headlining Microsoft's fall lineup, a clear effort has been made to embellish the franchise's return with additional merchandise. Between a wide range of editions, hardware bundles and supplementary accessories available at launch, it's getting harder than ever to choose what's best for you.

Before you start up your chainsaw bayonets, we've broken down what each of the game's special editions entail and the best places to obtain them. For good measure, we've also made sure to include the best official merchandise coinciding with the game's launch.

Release date

Gears of War 4 releases worldwide on Tuesday, October 11, for Xbox One and Windows 10. For those that wish to get their hands on the game ahead of launch, Gears of War 4's Ultimate Edition entitles players to four days of early access, starting on Friday, October 7.

Preorder bonuses

While retailer-exclusive preorder bonuses are now commonplace, most retailers are offering the same two in-game bonus packs alongside a Gears of War 4 preorder. On top of these two packs, some retailers are also offering a range of digital and physical preorder bonuses.

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Header Cell - Column 0 "Brothers to the End" Elite Gear PackVintage Del PackVintage Reyna characterPhysical Gear PackBranded Mug & Coaster Set$10 Xbox Live Credit
AmazonRow 0 - Cell 3 Row 0 - Cell 4 Row 0 - Cell 5 Row 0 - Cell 6
Microsoft StoreRow 1 - Cell 3 Row 1 - Cell 4 Row 1 - Cell 5
Xbox StoreRow 2 - Cell 3 Row 2 - Cell 4 Row 2 - Cell 5 Row 2 - Cell 6
GameStopRow 3 - Cell 5 Row 3 - Cell 6
Best BuyRow 4 - Cell 3 Row 4 - Cell 4 Row 4 - Cell 6

If you redeem a digital code for Gears of War 4 from any retailer, your copy will be playable on both Xbox One and Windows 10 through Xbox Play Anywhere!

Gears of War 4 Standard Edition (Physical)

Across most retailers, the standard version of Gears of War 4 is being offered for $59.99, with additional bonus content dependent on the retailer (detailed breakdown supplied above). This version of the game is most common and stocked by a majority of video game retailers.

Here's where to pick up the standard game across common retailers in the United States.

Gears of War 4 Standard Edition (Digital)

A digital version of Gears of War 4 is also available, sold as a pre-paid code to be redeemed via Xbox Live. Most retailers who stock pre-paid codes will distribute the codes ahead of launch, to give players the chance to pre-load the title. Like digital copies purchased directly from the Xbox Store, these copies of the game will unlock at 12:01 in your time zone. Codes are valid for both Xbox One and Windows 10.

The following retailers stock digital copies of Gears of War 4 for Xbox One.

Gears of War 4 Ultimate Edition (Physical)

Stepping up from the standard edition, Gears of War 4's Ultimate Edition brings together the core game and season pass into a single, discounted package.

For $99.99, players will gain access to an exclusive Vintage VIP Pack, one year of map access and early access to the exclusive VIP playlist. Ultimate Edition owners also get four days of early access to Gears of War 4 ahead of launch, from October 7. If purchasing the physical version of the game, the Ultimate Edition also ships in a collectible SteelBook.

Here's where you can find the physical version of the Ultimate Edition.

Gears of War 4 Ultimate Edition (Digital)

Not too dissimilar from its physical equivalent, the digital version of Gears of War 4 Ultimate Edition gives players access to the same range of content. While the collectible SteelBook is absent from digital versions, owners will be able to take full advantage of Xbox Play Anywhere on Xbox One and Windows 10 devices.

The following retailers provide digital licenses for the digital Ultimate Edition.

Gears of War 4: Collector's Edition

For true fans of the Gears of War franchise, Gears of War 4's Collector's Edition offers the most complete package available at launch. Alongside all the content seen in the Ultimate Edition, the Collector's Edition comes packed with all extra physical goodies – most notably a 19-inch long statue of the game's protagonist, JD Fenix.

Here's what you'll find inside the Gears of War 4 Collector's Edition:

  • Gears of War 4 Ultimate Edition SteelBook (Physical Disc) + Season Pass
  • JD Fenix on COG Bike Premium Statue by TriForce (19 inches long, 11 inches tall)
  • Frag Grenade Keychain
  • Exclusive Lithograph by TriForce

Hands-on with the Gears of War 4 Collector's Edition

Sadly, with the inclusion of a physical disc, Collector's Edition owners can't take advantage of the Play Anywhere initiative.

Gears of War 4 Limited Edition Xbox One S 2TB Bundle

As one of the first truly custom variants of the Xbox One S, the Limited Edition Gears of War 4 console offers an enticing upgrade for many. Boasting a 2TB internal hard drive and the other standard improvements the Xbox One S provides, the console is a part of one of most complete bundles to date. Unlike other Xbox One S bundles, this limited edition unit also ships alongside a console stand.

This bundle includes a digital version of the Gears of War 4 Ultimate Edition and a range of exclusive content. Stock of this console isn't expect to last forever, so make sure to reserve your console as soon as possible!

Hands-on with the Limited Edition Gears of War 4 Xbox One S console

Here's where you can find the limited edition Xbox One S bundle.

Xbox One S 1TB Gears of War 4 Console Bundle (White)

For those preferring a more neutral design, the standard white Xbox One S is also being sold as a part of a Gears of War 4 bundle. This bundle includes a 1TB Xbox One S console and a digital copy of the game for no additional cost.

The following retailers stock the 1TB Xbox One S bundle.

Xbox One S 500GB Gears of War 4 Special Edition Console Bundle

Alongside the launch of Gears of War 4, Microsoft has also debuted a new variant of the Xbox One S in a Deep Blue color scheme. For $299, the bundle comes with a 500GB hard drive and a digital copy of the game. Similarly to the 1TB bundle, this package costs the same as other 500GB Xbox One S models.

The Deep Blue variant of the Xbox One S is available exclusively from GameStop and the Microsoft Store.

Xbox Wireless Controller - Gears of War 4 Crimson Omen Limited Edition

The Crimson Omen limited edition controller has been laser-etched to look like it's been through a fair share of battles, and has a textured grip to better stay in your sweaty palms when the action ramps up. The Gears multiplayer emblem is prominent on the left side of the controller, and a red, metallic D-pad tops things off.

Xbox Wireless Controller - Gears of War 4 JD Fenix Limited Edition

Want to emulate the hero of Gear of War 4? The JD Fenix limited edition controller is styled to resemble Fenix's armor, and has the Gears logo printed right in the middle. The controller is currently limited to GameStop and the Microsoft Store.

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Gears of War 4 Limited Edition

Alongside the release of Gears of War 4, Microsoft has also debuted the first spin off of its premium Xbox Elite controller. With a 'battle-weathered' design, the controller is designed to follow the similar gritty art direction of the game itself. As with the standard Elite controller, a range of different thumbsticks, D-pads and paddles are included inside the controller's high-quality carrying case. These can be swapped out on the fly, to suit all your gaming needs.

The Gears of War 4 Elite controller is still available in limited quantities, but stock levels may vary over time.

Gears of War 4 Collector's Edition Official Strategy Guide

The Gears of War 4 Collector's Edition Guide brings together strategies, behind-the-scenes coverage and concept art into a premium hardcover book. With guidance across the game's campaign and multiplayer modes, the Collector's Editon guide is the ultimate companion for any avid Gears of War fan.

Alongside a hardback cover, the Collector's Edition comes with the following extras:

  • Replica Metal Cog Tag Necklace.
  • Two downloadable Gear Packs included!
  • Downloadable tracks from the Gears of War 4 soundtrack.
  • Download code for Gears of War, Gears of War 2, Gears of War 3, and Gears of War 4 eGuides.

Pick up your copy from any leading book store!

Gears of War 4 Official Strategy Guide

If you're looking for the extra edge in combat, consider picking up the Gears of War 4 Game Guide from Prima Games. With 320 pages of tips, tricks, and walkthroughs, the official guide is sure to lead you down the right path during your fight with the Swarm. Alongside the purchase of this guide, you'll also be receiving a free eGuide for your digital devices.

The Art of Gears of War 4

One of the most compelling components of the Gears of War franchise has always been the surrounding world it builds. Gears of War 4 is no different, with unique characters, weapons and levels across the game's modes. Dark Horse's 'The Art of Gears of War 4' is a culmination of these efforts into 184 pages of pure artistic genius.

To commemorate the next chapter of the Gears of War epic, Dark Horse Books is joining forces with The Coalition to bring fans The Art of Gears of War 4. Featuring hundreds of individual pieces of concept and production art, finished renders, and intimate commentary from the game's creators, this gorgeous volume is a must-have item for veteran Gears and rookies alike!

Seagate 2TB External Hard Drive - Gears of War 4 Edition

Designed alongside the limited edition Xbox One S and controllers, Seagate's Gears of War 4-themed external hard drive is a perfect accompaniment to the bundle. Like the firm's other Game Drives, the drive connects directly up to your Xbox One via a USB 3.0 connector. This is automatically configured by the Xbox One, adding a beefy 2TB of additional storage to your console.

HyperX CloudX Revolver Gaming Headset - Gears of War 4 Edition

In celebration of the Gears of War 4 launch, Kingston has redesigned its HyperX Cloud Revolver headset with inspiration from the other Gears of War limited edition hardware. With the same gritty aesthetic seen across other accessories, the redesign will fit in nicely with the Gears of War 4 hardware collection.

Gears of War 4 Prop Replica Customized Lancer

Designed only for the most dedicated enthusiasts, the Gears of War 4 replica Lancer puts the game's most iconic weapon in the hands of players. Created at a 1:1 scale, the Lancer comes in a 41.7 inches long and weighs over 10 pounds. The Lancer also comes equipped with an adjustable sight, safety switches and functioning LEDs, as the most authentic official replica to date.

The Gears of War replica Lancer is available from most video game retailers.

Still undecided?

If you're still undecided on whether to pick up Gears of War 4, why not take a look at our full review? If you're planning to pick up the title, make sure to stay tuned for upcoming tips, tricks and guides on Windows Central!

Matt Brown

Matt Brown was formerly a Windows Central's Senior Editor, Xbox & PC, at Future. Following over seven years of professional consumer technology and gaming coverage, he’s focused on the world of Microsoft's gaming efforts. You can follow him on Twitter @mattjbrown.