In an interview with Geoff Keighley that took place following the Microsoft E3 2018 press conference, the general manager of games marketing at Microsoft, Aaron Greenberg, gave fans more of an idea of what they can expect. Greenberg explained that Gears of War 5’s “different color palette” isn’t the only significant change compared to its predecessors as the new game is also set in a “much bigger, bolder world.”
Greenberg went on to explain that Gears of War 5 will feature “a lot more open-world aspects” as well. Although the Microsoft executive didn’t go into much detail regarding what these open-world aspects may look like and exactly how they may impact the traditional Gears of War experience, the executive did tease that “the team has taken time to expand and think bigger.” Fans will be hoping that in this case, bigger also means better.
It’s worth noting that prior to the official announcement, rumors were circulating that a Gears of War battle royale mode would be announced. That may not have happened during the E3 2018 press conference, but it would be in line with the development team’s new, expansive way of thinking. Technically, a battle royale map that allows players to go anywhere within it would also qualify as having more open-world elements, as Greenberg revealed.
Fans of the Gears of War franchise are already getting to fill their boots with Gears-related content over the next year or so. Alongside Gears of War 5, Microsoft also announced a mobile spin-off called Gears Pop as well as XCOM-like strategy title called Gears Tactics. While it has been less than two years since the last main series entry, Gears of War 4, was released, the swell of new titles coming out means that fans will be able to stay entertained until Gears of War 6 is announced as well. Even if Gears of War 5 doesn’t have a battle royale mode, the already announced titles will keep people busy enough.
Gears of War 5 will be released in 2019 on PC and Xbox One.
