### It’s been more than six years since the previous mainline *Gears of War* title. That’s a significant hiatus for the franchise, but thankfully fans won’t need to wait too much longer. *Gears of War: E-Day*, the upcoming chapter in the sci-fi cover shooter saga, is scheduled to release this fall. You may have numerous inquiries about this new *Gears* installment, such as whether it features co-op play or will host a multiplayer beta. We tackle all those inquiries and more below. Don’t feel obligated to thank us, just guarantee that you’ll provide cover fire when it’s needed.
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## What is *Gears of War: E-Day*?
*Gears of War: E-Day* is the upcoming main installment in the enduring Xbox series centered around formidable soldiers combating eerie mutants. Like all main entries in the series, *E-Day* is a third-person cover shooter that showcases realistic—but still sci-fi-influenced—weapons, armor, creatures, and settings. This new game also serves as a prequel, taking place before the storyline of the first game.
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## When does *E-Day* launch?
*Gears of War: E-Day* debuts on October 6. If you opt for the $100 Premium Edition pre-order, you’ll gain access to the game five days “earlier” on October 1.
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## Which platforms will *Gears of War: E-Day* be available on?
*Gears of War: E-Day* will be available on Xbox Series X/S and PC. It will not be accessible on PS5.
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## So is this a reboot or a remake?
Neither! As stated, this is a canonical prequel taking place before the storyline of the first game, and it will illustrate how franchise heroes Marcus and Dom evolved into the iconic duo we all adore. We’ll also witness the early stages of the Locust invasion on the planet Sera and how both the military and civilians responded to this unexpected and devastating subterranean threat.
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## I heard there’s a sliding mechanic in *E-Day*…is that accurate?
Yes! This time, Marcus and his companions exhibit significantly greater agility compared to earlier *Gears of War* installments. In *E-Day*, players can slide, leap, sprint (not roadie run), and even take cover behind much lower objects by lying prone.
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## Does *Gears of War: E-Day* feature an extensive solo campaign?
Absolutely! In fact, the developers claim that the story campaign in *E-Day* is the largest ever presented in a *Gears* game, with a duration of approximately 14 hours. It’s also filled with collectibles and even minor side objectives, such as rescuing individuals from perilous situations.
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## Is *E-Day* an open-world game?
No! Although there are some sections where levels become more expansive and allow players to explore further, the developers emphasize that *E-Day* is not an open-world title. The campaign remains a linear experience that occasionally allows for exploration or provides optional side objectives.
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## Are Baird and Cole present in E-Day?
Regrettably, no. These two characters do not encounter Marcus and Dom until the events of the original *Gears of War*.
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## Can I enjoy it cooperatively with a friend?
Yes! *Gears of War: E-Day* allows for 2-player split-screen co-op on Xbox, and up to four players can team up online across both PC and console.
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## But I can still eliminate my friends in deathmatch, correct?
Certainly. *E-Day* boasts a wide array of multiplayer modes where you and your friends can chainsaw each other or join forces against other players.
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## Is wall bouncing returning?
No. The developers have clarified that traditional wall bouncing, where players used to wildly bounce around areas, won’t function as it has previously due to alterations in player movement and cover mechanics in *E-Day*. The implications of this change remain uncertain.
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## Does *Gears of War: E-Day* feature a Horde mode?
Yes! This time it’s called “Horde Siege” and is a PvE mode where 12 players, divided into three squads, collaborate to combat massive waves of enemies as well as larger monsters across “more extensive city maps.”
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## Is the Chainsaw Lancer included in *E-Day*?
Eventually. You won’t have immediate access to it as it’s not been developed yet. However, as established in prior *Gears* lore, the iconic weapon will be created during the early days of E-Day with Marcus Fenix’s assistance.
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## Will there be a *Gears of War: E-Day* beta?
Yes! An open beta will take place in August, but if you
