Gears of War 3 – Community Review
Posted
September 21 2011 by Keadin
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There are few game series that can claim to have the prolific lifespan that Gears of War has shared. Being among the blockbuster titles for the Xbox 360, it cemented itself as a keystone of this generation of games. In its tenure the series has both created and defined a genre, spawning a whole new breed of game in the process. Now, with the final chapter in Epic and Microsoft's trilogy, Gears of War 3 brings everything full circle and delivers one of the most commanding and powerful experiences possible.
When we last left our heroes, humanity was still on the ropes after years of fighting the Locust invasion. Delta Squad had flooded the underground network of tunnels the Locust lived in, but casualties were still high and every inch of battlefield was won with a pint of blood. At the start of Gears of War 3 we see just how devastated the human front has become. Without government, or military, most of the survivors are strewn about Sera in camps and brand themselves as The Stranded; abandoned by their leaders and left to fend for themselves, just like our beloved COGs.
Without a government to direct them, Marcus Fenix and his company are doing all they can to survive and you get the sense that sometimes that's not enough. A new threat in the Lambent, a mutated breed of Locust drunk on Imulsion, stalk them at every turn cutting off supply lines to vitals like food, water and ammunition. It's in these hopeless moments though that we're reminded of the strength the characters have shown in the past and the bond they share as comrades in arms.
Above all things, Gears of War 3 is a story about brotherhood and the sacrifices people are willing to make for each other to ensure a better future. They aren't often easy choices, but these are heroes who care for each other and as a player it's not hard to understand why. Like members of Delta Squad, we've spent years with these characters, learning their idiosyncrasies, motivations and the cores of their personalities. It's been a long and tiresome road, but it's one we've all walked with these guys and we know them all the better for it.
Whether it's Baird's callous wit, Dom's pensive contemplation, Marcus' bold leadership, or Cole's unyielding enthusiasm, there's something definite and special about each of them. Even newcomers like Sam and Jace have moments where you really feel who they are, which makes wading into battle with them all the more comforting. Fighting with these soldiers by your side isn't like fighting with any random video game character; it's like fighting together with your friends.
Gears of War 3 is one of the most densely packed titles releasing this year. With a completely renovated multiplayer experience including new modes, maps and weapons, as well as a truly epic campaign worthy of the series' pedigree, it's hard not to recommend it to anyone with a taste for action. Without a doubt this is an incredible experience, a hallmark release for the year, and most importantly a tremendous cap on one of gaming's greatest series.