Gears 5

80%
Game Brain Score Based on 6,967 reviews
  • story
  • gameplay
  • graphics
Gears 5 Game Cover
If you didn’t think you needed another Gears of War, you were wrong. Gears 5 is a barnstorming success, and a triumphant return for the series. This is the essential first party game the Xbox One desperately needed.
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From one of gaming’s most acclaimed sagas, Gears 5’s celebrated campaign, refreshed multiplayer and Hivebusters expansion are optimized for the Xbox Series X|S. Gears 5 Game of the Year Edition includes: • Gears 5 base game • Halo: Reach Character Pack • 30 days of Boost • Gears 5: Hivebusters expansion Campaign: With all-out war descending, Kait Diaz breaks away to uncover her connection to the…

  • PC
  • Windows
  • Cloud
  • NVIDIA GeForce NOW
  • Xbox
  • Xbox Game Pass
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Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

80%
Audience ScoreBased on 6,967 reviews
story785 positive mentions
monetization56 negative mentions
  • story2,182 mentions

    The story of Gears 5 has received mixed reviews, with some praising its emotional depth and character development, while others criticize it for being predictable and lacking the intensity of earlier installments. Many players appreciate the continuation of Kait's journey and the exploration of the game's lore, but feel that the open-world elements detract from the overall narrative experience. Overall, while the game offers engaging gameplay and stunning visuals, opinions on the story's quality and coherence vary significantly among players.

    • “The story is just amazing - personal, emotional, and touching like a movie almost.”
    • “The campaign is a really good story, graphics are amazing and after all these years it's still fun to gnasher someone in the face.”
    • “The story is interesting and while there was a bit of repetition, I found that the weapons and many options to kill the enemy offset that to a great degree.”
    • “Absolute trite story with shallow attempts at creating depth for characters.”
    • “The campaign felt very short and gimmicky compared to what you can get in the first 3 games, there are some instances in the game where you feel like you're playing a GTA game where you're traveling around to start a mission.”
    • “The story is very hard to chew ... barely could understand the plot .... who plays Gears 5 and does not provide the other games Gears 1/2/3/..... to be played .... is like getting to eat the 5th main course to a wedding but you don't know that you are at a wedding.”
  • gameplay1,014 mentions

    The gameplay in Gears 5 has received mixed reviews, with many praising its classic cover-based shooting mechanics and smooth controls, while others criticize it for being repetitive and lacking innovation compared to earlier titles in the series. Players appreciate the addition of new mechanics, such as the robot companion Jack and RPG elements, which enhance the experience, but some find the open-world segments and certain gameplay choices to be unnecessary or poorly executed. Overall, while the core gameplay remains enjoyable for fans, technical issues and design choices have led to a less favorable reception among some players.

    • “Horde is fully fixed, multiplayer is fantastically balanced, the gameplay is smooth.”
    • “The gameplay is fun enough but it does have some areas that turn the game slightly open world.”
    • “The gameplay in gears 5 for the campaign and PvP are fantastic in my opinion.”
    • “The controls are clunky and just feel terrible, and the gameplay was painfully repetitive without much variety; go to area > fight some waves > cutscene > repeat.”
    • “The gameplay itself is also frustrating, with a high level of randomness that can make matches feel unfair and unbalanced.”
    • “The campaign bugs and breaks; you'll fall through the floor a lot, have to back up several checkpoints, and the AI allies will kick you out of cover repeatedly. There are invisible walls everywhere, and the cover system isn't polished.”
  • graphics774 mentions

    The graphics in Gears 5 have received widespread acclaim for their stunning visuals and high level of detail, showcasing impressive optimization that allows for smooth performance even on lower-end hardware. Many players noted the game's ability to deliver breathtaking environments and character models, often likening the visuals to those of a cinematic experience. However, some users reported issues with graphical bugs and performance inconsistencies, particularly on certain hardware configurations, which detracted from the overall experience.

    • “The graphics are stunning, I was playing on a several years old ROG laptop and I was stunned by how well it looked.”
    • “The graphics are absolutely out of this world.”
    • “Gears 5 is a beautiful game with graphics that will push your system to its limit.”
    • “This game is boring and if you like sexy graphics, meh story (for a newcomer) and kinda mindless shooter, here's the game for you.”
    • “Its visuals are subpar and often plain ugly (especially the red desert where it feels like assets did not load properly).”
    • “Over a month after release the game still has consistent graphical bugs.”
  • optimization278 mentions

    The optimization of the game has received mixed reviews, with many praising its performance and graphical fidelity, particularly on high-end PCs, where it runs smoothly at high settings. However, several users reported significant stuttering, frame drops, and performance issues, especially after updates, which detracted from the overall experience. While some players found it to be one of the best-optimized titles for PC, others experienced frustrating bugs and inconsistent performance, indicating that optimization may vary significantly depending on individual hardware setups.

    • “The graphics are amazing and the game is greatly optimized, so you'll get to experience this game quite well even on weaker PCs.”
    • “It's well optimized and beautiful; nothing is really over-complicated and nothing feels like it's lacking needed depth.”
    • “This game is highly optimized for PC and has the best multiplayer I have played in a Gears game.”
    • “Heavy stuttering makes it unplayable to sit through the corny story.”
    • “This game has major stuttering issues and for a triple-A developer, that is simply unacceptable, especially for a fast-paced multiplayer title.”
    • “The game ran better during its early few days of release, then after the optimization went to shit.”
  • monetization242 mentions

    The monetization in the game has drawn significant criticism, with many reviewers highlighting an overwhelming number of microtransactions, often described as excessive and predatory, especially for a full-priced title. While some microtransactions are cosmetic and can be earned through gameplay, the high costs and aggressive marketing tactics have left players feeling frustrated and exploited. Overall, the monetization strategy is seen as a major detractor from the game's experience, with calls for developers to address these issues more thoughtfully.

    • “There are heavy microtransactions in the game, but they're mostly cosmetic and can be unlocked very easily.”
    • “The microtransactions aren't intrusive like other reviewers would lead you to believe.”
    • “While yes, the microtransactions suck, Gears 5 has the best story in a Gears game period with an amazing visual style and satisfying shooting mechanics.”
    • “The game has a ridiculous amount of microtransactions for a $60 game, and in its current state where iron is unearnable aside from a minuscule amount of the 'premium' currency (500, or $5 worth), with over $800 of microtransactions nothing is fun to earn, grind is ridiculous, and the character roster is currently the lowest at-launch for a Gears title ever.”
    • “This game is absolutely amazing in almost every aspect (except the cosmetic microtransactions).”
    • “The monetization of this game makes me want to vomit.”
  • stability219 mentions

    The game's stability has been widely criticized, with numerous players reporting a plethora of bugs, glitches, and crashes across both campaign and multiplayer modes. While some users noted that the game runs well on certain platforms, such as the Steam Deck, many others experienced significant issues that rendered the game frustratingly unplayable at times. Overall, the consensus is that despite its potential, the game suffers from severe stability problems that detract from the overall experience.

    • “The game runs great on the Steam Deck, which is especially important to me, as I tend to travel a lot as part of my job.”
    • “Graphics are stunningly good, gameplay is smooth and no glitches, the storyline is unique and fast-paced without any difficult puzzles to break the flow of fun in the game.”
    • “Game runs great and I am impressed with how smooth cross-play is; I think for the first Gears game to come out on Steam and be cross-play, it's worth my money.”
    • “Despite playing it in 2024 (5 years after release), I've seen myriad bugs, from cosmetic issues to crashes, sound bugs, and freezes.”
    • “I am playing with a $3400 PC, 32 GB of RAM, i12 CPU, RTX 3080 with 10 GB of RAM, and all updated drivers, and this buggy game has hard crashed my PC at least 15 times.”
    • “The game is buggy and crashes every two games online.”
  • grinding141 mentions

    The grinding aspect of Gears 5 has received overwhelmingly negative feedback, with players describing it as tedious, forced, and often frustrating. Many reviews highlight the extensive time required to unlock characters, skins, and achievements, often leading to a sense of monotony and dissatisfaction, especially in comparison to previous titles in the series. While some players find enjoyment in the grind, the overall sentiment suggests that the game's progression system feels overly demanding and heavily monetized, detracting from the overall experience.

    • “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
    • “The open-ended world aspects are not bad either; they don't drag down the story and aren't tedious like some other recent games. Gear of War 5 is at its best with linear storytelling.”
    • “Large free-roaming maps with secondary objectives that are not too tedious to do and give great rewards in the form of Jack upgrades.”
    • “The grinding for classes, cards, skins, and everything just feels cheap, forced, and tacked on.”
    • “The tour of duty is far too grindy and gives out lackluster rewards.”
    • “The grinding is way over the top, and I mean way over the top.”
  • music74 mentions

    The music in the game receives mixed reviews, with some praising the orchestral score and emotional tracks composed by Ramin Djawadi, while others find it forgettable and uninspired. Many players appreciate the soundtrack's ability to enhance the game's atmosphere, though some feel it lacks memorable themes and blends too much into the background. Overall, while the sound design and music are generally well-executed, opinions vary on their impact and memorability.

    • “Visually delicious, excellent gameplay, some of the best music ever and on-point writing.”
    • “The game has beautiful graphics and scenery, great characters, fantastic story, an absolutely great and incredible musical score, and of course, an absolutely magnificently gruesome multiplayer that makes you nonstop come back for more and more of that sweet juicing pop sound you love.”
    • “The score, provided by Game of Thrones composer Ramin Djawadi, stands out in its own right from the soundtrack of the original trilogy, with less bombast suiting the more down-to-earth tone of the Coalition's titles.”
    • “The game's sound design is also uninspired, with forgettable music and unremarkable sound effects.”
    • “I didn't care for the music either; I really couldn't tell you a single track that got my heart pumping.”
    • “Can’t say much about the soundtrack as it blends in the background so well I’ve never paid attention to it.”
  • emotional64 mentions

    The emotional aspect of the game has received mixed reviews, with many players praising its heartfelt storytelling and character development that elicits strong feelings, including moments of joy, sadness, and nostalgia. However, some critics argue that the narrative lacks depth and coherence, leading to forced emotional moments that feel disconnected from the franchise's roots. Overall, while the game offers a visually stunning and emotionally charged experience for some, others find it lacking in genuine emotional engagement and impactful storytelling.

    • “The story here is just amazing - personal, emotional, and touching like a movie almost.”
    • “The campaign is an emotional rollercoaster that will have you on the edge of your seat, with a gripping storyline that keeps you invested from start to finish.”
    • “The visuals are beautiful, gameplay is fun and gory, the campaign is heartfelt with incredible performances from the cast, and it is just a wonderful experience from start to finish and beyond.”
    • “Boring game, boring story, and all of the good characters from the previous games are an afterthought.”
    • “What went from a testosterone-fueled adventure turned into a boring story.”
    • “Boring story, especially in the second half of the game.”
  • humor52 mentions

    The humor in the game is a mixed bag, with many players appreciating the witty banter and comedic moments between characters, particularly in co-op modes. While some find the dialogue and character interactions genuinely funny, others feel that the humor can sometimes detract from the overall mood or pacing of the game. Overall, the game features a blend of dark humor and lighthearted moments, though technical issues and character choices have led to some criticism regarding its comedic effectiveness.

    • “I love how hilariously overtuned the gnasher is in this game.”
    • “Game introduces some really funny banter at times.”
    • “Buy it if you enjoyed Gears of War 4, I'm enjoying Gears 5 more personally; the comedic banter between Del & Kate is hilarious.”
    • “Gears 5 achievements: 1/10 (Gears 5 should be renamed to Grinds 5, unfunny and unrewarding)”
    • “Del, the unfunny robophil”
  • replayability52 mentions

    The game's replayability is generally praised, particularly for its multiplayer modes like Horde and Escape, which offer diverse gameplay mechanics and progression systems that keep players engaged. While the campaign has mixed reviews—some finding it short and lacking in replay value—others appreciate its replayable elements and the addition of fun modes. Overall, fans of the franchise will likely find enough content and variety to justify multiple playthroughs.

    • “Overall, Gears 5's horde mode is incredibly replayable, and it's the main reason why I keep coming back.”
    • “Together with the DLC expansions and events, the game offers many hours of replayability.”
    • “The specialized skills and equipment of different characters is a nice change of pace and adds a lot of replayability.”
    • “I disliked the campaign, and to me, it doesn't have any replayability.”
    • “The only mercy is that the campaign is short (10-12 hours if you 'explore' everything) and has no replay value, so at least you'll be out of your misery in a weekend.”
    • “No replayability once you've done the campaign.”
  • atmosphere33 mentions

    The game's atmosphere is praised for its stunning graphics, detailed environments, and cinematic moments, creating an engaging sci-fi world with a strong war ambiance. However, some players feel that the shift to a brighter, more colorful palette detracts from the darker, more ominous atmosphere of earlier titles, leading to mixed feelings about the overall tone and engagement of the campaign. While many appreciate the atmospheric tracks and unique settings, others lament the loss of the original series' gritty vibe.

    • “The game does really well in the graphic and atmosphere department.”
    • “Amazing graphics even for today, lots of cinematic moments and atmospheric environments.”
    • “The game is simply gorgeous with highly detailed models, dirty textures, imposing atmospheric lighting and a unique chromatic palette that makes it stand out.”
    • “We 've gone from Marcus and the dark atmosphere of the older games to Kait and the rainbows.”
    • “The atmosphere didn't feel anything like the first few games (dark, dreary, underground).”
    • “Moreover, the picture palette used in Gears 4-5 is quite bright which goes against the previously established gore, dark, old-school atmosphere of the first original three Gears of War games.”
  • character development27 mentions

    Character development in the game has received mixed reviews, with some praising it as one of the best in the series, highlighting strong emotional arcs and meaningful character growth, particularly for JD. However, others criticize it for feeling disjointed and forced, with significant gaps in character progression and moments that seem to occur off-screen, leading to a lack of attachment to certain characters. Overall, while there are standout moments of development, many players feel that it falls short compared to previous entries in the franchise.

    • “Good campaign, great character development allowing you to become attached to them more than any other characters before.”
    • “If you love the series then you'll really love this game, the story is strong and the character development is hands down some of the best in the series.”
    • “To top it all off the story is enthralling, from government conspiracies to actual character development and emotions, it keeps you wanting more and every little bit builds off of one another.”
    • “Unless you count the ham-fisted attempt at the beginning of the game to force the narratives that one 'hammer of dawn bad' and two 'JD is tragic like Marcus too!' See how we made him make a mistake and then disappear from the story entirely for a time-out so he doesn't accidentally show character development to the player in a meaningful way.”
    • “There could have been real character development and dialogue, but instead, it legit happens off-screen.”
    • “As the story progressed, we spent less and less time on character development and more on fruitless side quests and open world dead space that only seem to divert from the minimal main quests.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
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Critic Reviews

87% average critic score

Buy Gears 5

Play time

14hMedian play time
66hAverage play time
4-30hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 41 analyzed playthroughs

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