Gears of War: E-Day review
Xbox, PC (version tested); The Coalition/Xbox Game StudiosE-Day boasts the best combat in 20 years of Gears games – but everything surrounding it is disappointing
TL;DR
- E-Day offers the best combat mechanics in 20 years of Gears of War games, with fluid movement and responsive controls.
- The game's narrative focuses on the origins of E-Day, explaining Marcus Fenix's scar and the soldiers' use of chainsaw bayonets.
- Despite strong combat, the game is criticized for repetitive level design, forcing players to traverse the same areas multiple times.
- An abundance of collectibles and side objectives in large, open areas disrupt the pacing and emotional impact of key story moments.
- The game's environments and combat arenas are destructible, enhancing the visceral feel of the firefights.
- Active reloading remains a core, engaging mechanic that rewards player timing.
- The prequel's setting, while foundational, becomes a narrative constraint, leading to a safe and uninspired progression.
- While combat is praised, the surrounding elements of E-Day are deemed disappointing and repetitive.