Is Gears of War Judgment a Prequel?
The Gears of War series has been a staple of the third-person shooter genre since its inception in 2006. With each new installment, the story has evolved, and the characters have become more complex. Among the most debated topics surrounding the series is the role of Gears of War: Judgment in the overall narrative. Is Gears of War: Judgment a prequel, or is it a standalone game? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Sera and explore the answers to this question.
The Confusion
When Gears of War: Judgment was first announced, many fans were confused about its place in the series. The game’s story takes place 15 years before the events of the original Gears of War, which led some to believe it was a prequel. However, the game’s developers, People Can Fly, emphasized that Judgment was not a traditional prequel. So, what exactly is Gears of War: Judgment?
The Story
Gears of War: Judgment takes place in 15 AD, 14 years before the events of the first Gears of War game. The story follows Damon Baird, a former member of Delta Squad, and his new team, the "Fenix-Holes," as they are tasked with investigating a series of atrocities committed by the Locust Horde. As the game progresses, players uncover a deeper conspiracy involving the COG’s (Coalition of Ordered Governments) inner workings and the true nature of the Locust threat.
The Connection to the Main Series
While Gears of War: Judgment is not a traditional prequel, it does have connections to the main series. The game’s story explores the events leading up to the Locust War, which sets the stage for the original Gears of War game. The game also introduces key characters, such as Paduk, who becomes a significant figure in the series. Additionally, the game’s ending sets the stage for the events of Gears of War 3.
The Timeline
To clarify the timeline, here is a brief summary of the Gears of War series:
- Gears of War: Judgment: 15 AD (14 years before the events of the first Gears of War game)
- Gears of War: 15 AD (the original game)
- Gears of War 2: 15 AD (six months after the events of the first game)
- Gears of War 3: 17 AD (four years after the events of Gears of War 2)
Key Differences
While Gears of War: Judgment is set in the same universe as the main series, it has several key differences that set it apart. The game’s story is more focused on the characters and their personal struggles, whereas the main series is more focused on the epic battles against the Locust Horde. The game’s tone is also darker and more mature, with a greater emphasis on the moral gray areas of war.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Gears of War: Judgment is not a traditional prequel, but rather a standalone game that explores the events leading up to the Locust War. While it has connections to the main series, it is a unique story that adds depth to the Gears of War universe. The game’s story, characters, and tone all contribute to a distinct experience that sets it apart from the main series.
Table: Gears of War Timeline
| Game | Year | Events |
|---|---|---|
| Gears of War: Judgment | 15 AD | 14 years before the events of the first Gears of War game |
| Gears of War | 15 AD | The original game |
| Gears of War 2 | 15 AD | Six months after the events of the first game |
| Gears of War 3 | 17 AD | Four years after the events of Gears of War 2 |
Key Takeaways
- Gears of War: Judgment is not a traditional prequel, but rather a standalone game that explores the events leading up to the Locust War.
- The game’s story takes place 15 years before the events of the first Gears of War game.
- The game has connections to the main series, including key characters and events that set the stage for the original Gears of War game.
- The game’s tone is darker and more mature, with a greater emphasis on the moral gray areas of war.
