Gear of Wars has always been known as an Xbox franchise, but not for long. An upcoming remaster of the original 2006 Gears of War game is coming to the Xbox, PC, and PlayStation 5. 

Microsoft today announced that it’s developing Gears of War: Reloaded, which will arrive on Aug. 26 for $39.99. But surprisingly, both Xbox and PlayStation owners will be able to enjoy the game on day one of its release. 

In another shocking sight, Sony’s PlayStation team has been promoting the announcement on X, which prompted one user to respond: “Gears on PlayStation.”  

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“This is insane to see considering Gears of War was one of those games I loved on Xbox 360 while having a PS3,” wrote another user. 

The PS5 expansion may feel blasphemous for Xbox owners. But things have changed at Microsoft, which is relying less on Xbox exclusives to reach gamers on rival platforms, including the PlayStation and Nintendo’s Switch. Even Microsoft’s Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is on the PS5; the first-party title only enjoyed Xbox and PC exclusivity for about five months. 

In addition, the newly released The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered also landed on PS5 on day one. So we wouldn’t be surprised if Halo: The Master Chief Collection eventually arrives on the PS5, amid rumors that Microsoft is already preparing to do so. 

As for Gears of War: Reloaded, the game will feature 4K resolution, HDR colors, and 120 FPS support, an improvement from the 1080p resolution in the Gears of War: Ultimate Edition, an older remaster from 2015.  The reloaded version will offer cross-play and cross-progression for all platforms, meaning PS5 gamers will be able to play together with other users on PC and Xbox. 

(Credit: Microsoft)

“With cross-play across all platforms, you and your friends can squad up no matter where you play — no Microsoft account required,” the company said, later adding: “However, signing in with a Microsoft account unlocks full cross-platform functionality. It enables cross-progression, so your Campaign and multiplayer progress carries across devices. It also allows you to send invites and play with friends across platforms — like Xbox to PlayStation or Steam to Xbox.”

If you’ve already purchased the digital version of Gears of War: Ultimate Edition, you’ll receive the Reloaded remaster free of charge. “And for Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass members, Gears of War: Reloaded will be available as part of the Game Pass library at launch,” Microsoft said.

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About Michael Kan

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I’ve been working as a journalist for over 15 years—I got my start as a schools and cities reporter in Kansas City and joined PCMag in 2017.

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