Which Gears Game Should I Start With?
The Gears of War series has been a staple of the gaming world for over a decade, with a rich history of intense action, gripping storylines, and memorable characters. With six main games and several spin-offs, it can be overwhelming for new players to know where to start. In this article, we’ll help you navigate the series and provide guidance on which Gears game to start with.
Release Order: The Best Way to Play
The most straightforward way to play the Gears of War series is in release order. This will allow you to follow the story arc of the game, which is designed to build upon previous events. Here’s the release order:
- Gears of War (2006)
- Gears of War 2 (2008)
- Gears of War 3 (2011)
- Gears of War: Judgment (2013)
- Gears of War 4 (2016)
- Gears 5 (2019)
Skipping Games: A Guide
While playing the series in release order is the most immersive way to experience Gears of War, you may not have the time or inclination to play all six games. If you’re looking to skip some games, here’s a guide to help you do so:
- Gears of War 1: You can skip the first game without missing out on much. The story is self-contained, and the gameplay is relatively simple compared to later games.
- Gears of War: Judgment: This game is a prequel to the original trilogy and can be skipped without affecting your understanding of the overall story.
- Gears of War 4: You can start with Gears of War 4 and still enjoy the game, but you’ll miss out on the backstory and character development of the original trilogy.
Time Commitment: How Long to Play Each Game
If you’re short on time, you may want to consider the length of each game. Here’s a rough estimate of how long it’ll take to complete each game:
| Game | Main Story | 100% Completion |
|---|---|---|
| Gears of War | 9 hours | 29½ hours |
| Gears of War 2 | 10 hours | 35 hours |
| Gears of War 3 | 12 hours | 40 hours |
| Gears of War: Judgment | 8 hours | 20 hours |
| Gears of War 4 | 12 hours | 40 hours |
| Gears 5 | 15 hours | 50 hours |
Key Features to Consider
When deciding which Gears game to start with, consider the following key features:
- Story: If you’re interested in the story, start with Gears of War 1 or Gears of War 4. These games have a more focused narrative and are designed to be more accessible to new players.
- Gameplay: If you’re looking for a more action-packed experience, start with Gears of War 2 or Gears of War 3. These games have more intense combat and a greater emphasis on multiplayer.
- Multiplayer: If you’re interested in multiplayer, start with Gears of War 4 or Gears 5. These games have a more developed multiplayer mode and a larger player base.
Conclusion
Choosing which Gears game to start with can be daunting, but by considering the release order, skipping games, time commitment, and key features, you can find the perfect entry point for your gaming journey. Whether you’re a newcomer to the series or a seasoned veteran, there’s a Gears game out there for you.