What Order to Play Gears of War?
The Gears of War series has captivated gamers worldwide with its intense action, gritty storytelling, and lovable characters. With five mainline games and several spin-offs, it can be daunting to decide where to start. In this article, we’ll guide you through the correct order to play the Gears of War series, ensuring you experience the story and gameplay in the most enjoyable and logical way.
Understanding the Gears of War Timeline
Before diving into the correct order, it’s essential to understand the series’ timeline. The Gears of War games take place in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity is fighting against the Locust Horde, a subterranean species that has ravaged the planet.
Mainline Games in Order
Here’s the recommended order to play the Gears of War mainline games:
- Gears of War (2006) – This is where the story begins. The game follows Marcus Fenix and Delta Squad as they attempt to rescue Adam Fenix, Marcus’s father, and uncover the secrets behind the Locust Horde.
- Gears of War 2 (2008) – This game takes place 18 months after the events of the first game. Delta Squad is tasked with uncovering the secrets behind the Locust’s origins and preventing their return.
- Gears of War 3 (2011) – Set 18 months after the events of Gears of War 2, this game sees Delta Squad facing off against the Lambent, a new threat to humanity.
- Gears of War 4 (2016) – This game takes place 25 years after the events of Gears of War 3. The story follows a new cast of characters, including JD Fenix, the son of Marcus Fenix, as they battle against the Swarm, a new enemy that has emerged from the ruins of the Locust Horde.
- Gears 5 (2019) – The latest mainline game in the series, Gears 5 takes place after the events of Gears of War 4. The story follows Kait Diaz, a former member of Delta Squad, as she uncovers the truth about her past and the secrets behind the Swarm.
Spin-Off Games and Prequels
Here are the spin-off games and prequels that fit into the mainline game’s timeline:
- Gears of War: Judgment (2013) – Set 15 years before the events of the first Gears of War game, this game follows Damon Baird and Augustus Cole as they face off against a group of war crimes.
- Gears of War: Aspho Fields (2009) – This comic book series serves as a prequel to the original Gears of War game, exploring the events leading up to the game’s storyline.
- Gears of War: Kilo Squad (2011) – This comic book series takes place between the events of Gears of War 2 and 3, following a group of soldiers known as Kilo Squad as they attempt to uncover the secrets behind the Locust Horde.
Why This Order Makes Sense
Playing the games in this order ensures you experience the story and gameplay in a logical and enjoyable way. Here’s why:
- Character development: By playing the games in order, you’ll develop a strong connection with the characters, particularly Marcus Fenix, as you follow his journey from a rookie soldier to a seasoned veteran.
- Story progression: The games build upon each other, with each installment introducing new threats and plot twists that make the story more engaging and unpredictable.
- Gameplay evolution: The gameplay mechanics and features evolve over the course of the series, making each game a more refined and enjoyable experience than the last.
Table: Gears of War Timeline
Here’s a table summarizing the Gears of War timeline:
Game | Release Year | Timeframe | Description |
---|---|---|---|
Gears of War | 2006 | 14 years after the Emergence Day | Follows Marcus Fenix and Delta Squad as they attempt to rescue Adam Fenix |
Gears of War 2 | 2008 | 18 months after Gears of War | Delta Squad uncovers the secrets behind the Locust Horde |
Gears of War 3 | 2011 | 18 months after Gears of War 2 | Delta Squad faces off against the Lambent |
Gears of War 4 | 2016 | 25 years after Gears of War 3 | JD Fenix and his team battle against the Swarm |
Gears 5 | 2019 | After Gears of War 4 | Kait Diaz uncovers the truth about her past and the Swarm |
Conclusion
Playing the Gears of War series in the correct order ensures a rich and engaging gaming experience. By following the timeline outlined above, you’ll develop a deep understanding of the characters, story, and gameplay mechanics that have made the series so beloved. So, what are you waiting for? Gear up and start playing!