Gears 5

Gears 5 offers a familiar third-person shooter experience that carries forward the core gameplay mechanics from previous entries, especially the cover-based combat. The campaign receives mixed reactions, with some praising its moments of intensity and character-driven narrative, particularly Act 3, while others criticize its pacing, open-world sections, and story focus on new characters like Kait, which some find less engaging than the original trilogy's cast.

Multiplayer modes, including Horde and Escape, retain the franchise's signature gameplay but face criticism for a dwindling player base and matchmaking issues. Monetization practices and bugs also detract from the experience for some players. Graphically, the game is well-received, especially on PC, with smooth performance noted on various platforms. Overall, Gears 5 is seen as a solid but somewhat uninspired continuation of the series, appealing mainly to dedicated fans while leaving others hoping for a return to the franchise's darker, grittier roots.

Highlights

Players praise Gears 5 for its solid third-person shooter gameplay and well-executed cover mechanics, which remain true to the series' roots. The graphics are highly regarded, with smooth performance and detailed environments enhancing immersion. The campaign's intense moments, especially Act 3, are noted as standout segments, providing classic Gears action. Horde mode is appreciated for its cooperative play and strategic depth, offering a fun PvE experience. Additionally, the benchmark tool on PC is valued for performance insights. Local co-op gameplay is also highlighted as an enjoyable feature, fostering memorable multiplayer sessions.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the campaign's pacing and narrative, with many players finding the story uninspired and the new protagonist, Kait, less compelling than previous leads. The open-world elements are often described as slow and unnecessary, disrupting the game's flow. Multiplayer suffers from a declining player base, unbalanced matchmaking, and the presence of bots, leading to frustrating experiences. Monetization and microtransactions are seen as excessive by some, impacting enjoyment. Technical issues such as audio bugs and occasional gameplay glitches also detract from the overall experience. Fans of the original trilogy express disappointment over changes to iconic gameplay elements and a perceived loss of the franchise's darker tone.