Search for games

Type three or more characters to search...

Links

Steam

Twitch

MONSTER

Gears of War: Reloaded

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Gears of War: Reloaded
Item: Gears of War: Reloaded
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAction, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Military and Warfare, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableAug 26, 2025

PlatformXbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperThe Coalition

Overview

The original Gears of War returns, faithfully remastered and natively optimized for more platforms than ever before as Gears of War: Reloaded. Experience the origins of one of gaming’s most acclaimed franchises like never before. Featuring 4K resolution, up to 120 FPS support, and the ultimate multiplayer experience with cross-progression and cross-play, across all platforms, this is the definitive way to experience the game that started it all.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Gears of War: Reloaded stirs mixed feelings; praised for its engaging narrative and emotional depth centered on themes of family and sacrifice, yet criticized for its simplistic storyline and dated dialogue. While nostalgic fans may enjoy the classic elements, newcomers might find the linear campaign and lack of modern depth disappointing. It's a solid trip down memory lane but struggles to resonate with a contemporary audience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Gears of War: Reloaded is mixed, with several critics highlighting its engaging narrative and emotional depth. Critics such as Cultura Geek and TechRadar Gaming praise the game for maintaining a compelling storyline that follows Sergeant Marcus Fénix and his comrades in their fight against the Locust Horde, emphasizing themes of family, sacrifice, and the toll of war. Additionally, But Why Tho? and Loot Level Chill commend the story for its character development and exploration of friendship and tragedy, particularly the bond between Marcus and Dom. The nostalgic elements resonate well with long-time fans, as noted by Gamereactor UK and TheSixthAxis, who appreciate the iconic moments and character arcs that have become hallmarks of the franchise. Conversely, several reviewers express concerns about the narrative's simplicity and lack of depth. GameStar and Dexerto criticize the story for being thin and simplistic, with some dialogues feeling silly and dated. Critics like COGconnected and Worth Playing note that while the narrative retains its classic Gears of War experience, it shows signs of age and lacks modern updates that could enhance character development and backstories. Furthermore, the linear structure of the campaign, as pointed out by MeuPlayStation and PlayStation Universe, can lead to a repetitive experience that detracts from the overall storytelling. In summary, the consensus among critics indicates that while Gears of War: Reloaded successfully captures the essence of the original game and offers an engaging narrative filled with emotional beats, it also suffers from a lack of depth and modern storytelling techniques. Critics like PCGamesN and WellPlayed highlight the themes of militarism and flawed heroism, but the overall sentiment suggests that the story may not resonate as strongly with new players due to its simplistic nature. Ultimately, the game serves as a nostalgic revisit for veterans while presenting challenges for those seeking a more nuanced narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Gears of War: Reloaded retains the franchise's core mechanics while refining gameplay, earning praise for its effective cover system and engaging combat. However, critics note aging mechanics, stiff controls, and predictable AI detract from the experience. While the cooperative campaign and weapon mechanics shine, the game lacks significant innovation and modern touches, leaving it feeling nostalgic but not fully captivating for players seeking a fresh experience. Overall, it's a solid continuation for fans, but it could benefit from modernization and improvements.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Gears of War: Reloaded has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its retention of the series' core mechanics while introducing some refinements. Critics like Cultura Geek and IGN Spain emphasize the effectiveness of the cover system, which remains a hallmark of the franchise, and the new reloading mechanic that adds depth to the gameplay. Many reviewers, including Dexerto and Gamer.no, praise the engaging and entertaining nature of the combat, noting the satisfying weapon mechanics and the thrill of tactical encounters. The game’s cooperative campaign mode has also been highlighted as a significant draw, with critics like Areajugones and Player 2 appreciating the variety it brings to the experience. However, several critiques point out that the gameplay shows signs of aging, with some mechanics feeling outdated and lacking the fluidity found in more modern shooters. Critics such as CGMagazine and Final Weapon express concerns over the stiffness of controls and the predictability of AI behavior, which can detract from the overall experience. Additionally, the lack of new features or significant improvements has been noted by critics like WellPlayed and Meristation, suggesting that while the game is enjoyable, it doesn’t innovate enough to fully captivate players looking for a fresh experience. AI pathfinding issues and glitches have also been mentioned, indicating areas where the game could improve. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Gears of War: Reloaded successfully captures the essence of the original while providing a nostalgic experience for fans of the series. While the gameplay remains engaging and enjoyable, as noted by critics like Loot Level Chill and Saudi Gamer, there are clear areas for improvement, particularly in modernizing certain mechanics and enhancing AI performance. As a result, while the game is a satisfying continuation of the franchise, it may not fully meet the expectations of players seeking a more contemporary gaming experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Gears of War: Reloaded impresses with its 4K textures and improved lighting, earning praise for showcasing modern console capabilities at 60 FPS. Critics highlight commendable visual upgrades while noting some elements still feel dated, with minimal enhancements over the Ultimate Edition. Disappointment arises around muted graphics and lingering age-related flaws that detract from immersion. Overall, the remaster steps up the visuals but falls short of fully modern standards, leaving a mixed impression of progress and limitations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The opinions of various critics on the graphics and visual design of Gears of War: Reloaded reveal a generally positive sentiment regarding the remaster's technical enhancements. Many reviewers, such as Cultura Geek and But Why Tho?, commend the game for its significant upgrades, including 4K textures and improved lighting, which contribute to a visually impressive experience, especially given the game's origins from 2006. Critics like COGconnected and MeuPlayStation highlight the detailed environments and character models, noting that the remaster effectively showcases the capabilities of modern consoles, particularly with smooth performance at 60 FPS. Overall, there is a consensus that the remaster does a commendable job of updating the visual fidelity while maintaining the essence of the original game. However, alongside these positives, several critics express disappointment regarding the extent of the improvements. GameStar and Areajugones point out that the graphical enhancements over the previous Ultimate Edition are minimal, with only slight upgrades in shadow resolution and lighting effects. Additionally, PCGamesN and Final Weapon note that while the graphics are improved, some aspects feel flat or lack vibrancy, detracting from the overall visual appeal. Critics like Saudi Gamer and TheSixthAxis emphasize that certain elements still exhibit signs of age, such as character animations and environmental textures, which can diminish the immersive experience. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Gears of War: Reloaded offers notable visual upgrades, it does not fully escape the limitations of its legacy. Critics like IGN Spain and TechRadar Gaming acknowledge the remaster's improvements but also caution that it falls short of modern standards seen in other remakes. Many reviewers appreciate the effort to enhance the original's aesthetics, but there is a recurring sentiment that the game could have leveraged more advanced technology to deliver a truly stunning visual experience. Ultimately, the remaster is seen as a step forward, yet it remains a mixed bag, balancing significant enhancements with lingering issues from its past.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Gears of War: Reloaded impresses with its revamped sound design and music, greatly enhancing gameplay immersion, especially with PS5's DualSense features. Critics praise the orchestral score and atmospheric effects but note flaws like inconsistent voice acting and occasional audio dropouts. While the improvements are significant, areas for refinement remain, indicating a strong but imperfect audio experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Gears of War: Reloaded have garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting significant improvements that enhance the overall gameplay experience. Critics like Cultura Geek and WellPlayed commend the updated music and sound effects, noting their contribution to an immersive atmosphere that complements the action. The integration of the PS5's DualSense features, as mentioned by Gamereactor UK and Loot Level Chill, further elevates the experience by providing haptic feedback and spatial audio effects, which enhance the feeling of immersion during gameplay. MeuPlayStation particularly praises the orchestral score and impactful audio effects, while IGN Spain emphasizes the powerful soundtrack that supports the campaign's cinematic moments. However, there are notable criticisms regarding certain aspects of the sound design. Areajugones and COGconnected point out inconsistencies in voice acting quality, with some performances feeling stiff or outdated compared to the overall high standard of the game. Dexerto raises concerns about instances of music dropping out during intense moments, which can detract from the player's experience. Additionally, Gamer.no highlights the absence of key character voice lines, which impacts the narrative flow despite the generally good audio backdrop. These criticisms indicate that while the sound design has improved, there are still areas that need refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Gears of War: Reloaded features a commendable sound design and music that significantly enhance the gameplay experience, though it is not without its flaws. Many reviewers, such as IGN Benelux and Vandal, acknowledge the immersive qualities of the sound design, while also recognizing that inconsistencies in voice acting and occasional audio issues prevent it from achieving perfection. The game successfully builds upon its predecessors with updated audio elements, but the mixed feedback suggests that further attention to detail could elevate the experience even more.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Gears of War: Reloaded boasts a praised Latin voice cast and nostalgic performances, enhancing the game's atmosphere. However, mixed reviews highlight inconsistency, robotic delivery in supporting roles, and key character silence, creating a divided sentiment. While some consider the voice acting top-notch, others point out significant flaws that could hinder immersion.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Gears of War: Reloaded has received a mix of praise from various critics, highlighting several positive aspects that enhance the overall gaming experience. Cultura Geek emphasizes the notable Latin voice cast, which includes well-known actors reprising their roles, thereby enriching the game’s atmosphere. IGN Spain agrees, stating that the voice acting maintains the high quality that fans have come to expect from the franchise. Additionally, Hobby Consolas notes that the original voice performances contribute to a nostalgic feel, with memorable lines that resonate with long-time players. Multiplayer.it also points out the iconic nature of certain performances, particularly that of Elisabetta Cesone as Queen Mirrah, which adds emotional depth to the narrative. However, not all reviews are as favorable, with several critics pointing out significant flaws in the voice acting. Areajugones mentions that while the Spanish voice acting is generally good, some voices detract from the overall quality. COGconnected echoes this sentiment by describing the voice acting as inconsistent, with the main character performing well but many supporting roles sounding robotic. Gamer.no raises a critical issue regarding the silence of key characters during gameplay, which they consider a major flaw. Additionally, TheSixthAxis notes that while the voice acting is consistent, the AI companions can be more of a nuisance, detracting from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a divided sentiment regarding the voice acting in Gears of War: Reloaded. While some reviewers, like Worth Playing, describe the voice acting as top-notch and contributing positively to the game, others highlight inconsistencies and issues that affect immersion. The positive feedback regarding nostalgic performances and the quality of the main cast is somewhat overshadowed by concerns about robotic delivery and character silence, indicating that while the voice acting has its strengths, it also presents notable weaknesses that could impact player experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Gears of War: Reloaded has received a largely positive response for its solid performance and visual upgrades on both PC and PS5, with critics praising double frame rates, smooth gameplay, and quick loading times. However, issues like clunky AI, animation hiccups, and occasional frame drops have been noted, indicating that while the remaster is a significant step forward, it still has flaws that need addressing to achieve its full potential. Overall, a commendable remaster, but not without its imperfections.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Gears of War: Reloaded has garnered a largely positive reception across both the PC and PS5 platforms. On PC, critics like Cultura Geek praised the game for running at double the original's frame rate with stable performance, showcasing a successful adaptation to modern technology. PCGamesN also noted the remaster's visual improvements, indicating a modern aesthetic that enhances the overall experience. On PS5, many reviewers echoed similar sentiments, with But Why Tho? and IGN Benelux highlighting the game's smooth performance, stable frame rates, and quick load times, which contribute to an enjoyable gaming experience. Additionally, Gamer.no and PlayStation LifeStyle confirmed that the game runs well at high resolutions, further emphasizing the technical advancements made in this remaster. Despite the overall positive reception, several critics pointed out notable technical shortcomings. On PC, WellPlayed mentioned issues with animations and enemy behavior that could disrupt gameplay, indicating that not all aspects of the remaster were flawless. On the PS5, while many reviews praised the performance, some critics, including Dexerto and Player 2, raised concerns about clunky AI and pathfinding issues that detracted from the gameplay experience. Additionally, Gamereactor UK noted occasional frame drops during intense moments, and Hobby Consolas pointed out that while the game runs smoothly, it still has some bugs that can affect immersion. These criticisms suggest that while the remaster is technically sound, it is not without its flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics for both platforms is that Gears of War: Reloaded represents a solid remaster with significant improvements in technical performance, though it is not without its issues. The PC version is praised for its stable performance and modern visuals, while the PS5 version is lauded for its high frame rates and quick load times. However, both platforms face criticism regarding AI behavior and minor technical glitches, indicating that while the remaster is a step forward, it still has room for improvement. Critics like Meristation and Multiplayer.it have noted that while the technical performance is commendable, it does not entirely surpass the original versions, suggesting a need for further refinement in future updates.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Gears of War: Reloaded shines in multiplayer and co-op modes, offering solid replay value with diverse game modes and cross-play functionality. Critics praise the engaging online experience, but the campaign mode falls flat, lacking new content to entice returning players. Overall, it's a hit for multiplayer fans but a letdown for veterans seeking fresh campaign experiences.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Gears of War: Reloaded reflect a generally positive sentiment, particularly concerning its multiplayer and cooperative elements. Critics like Cultura Geek and COGconnected highlight the game's engaging online modes and co-op gameplay, which offer significant replayability for both solo and multiplayer experiences. Additionally, Areajugones and MeuPlayStation emphasize the variety of game modes and maps available in the multiplayer component, enhancing the overall replay value. The inclusion of cross-play functionality, as noted by CGMagazine and Multiplayer.it, further enriches the multiplayer experience, making it accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience. Critics such as Vandal and Worth Playing also agree that the multiple difficulty levels and cooperative options contribute positively to the game's longevity and replay appeal. However, several reviewers express concerns regarding the limited replay value of the campaign mode, which may not provide enough new content to entice players to revisit it frequently. GameStar and Meristation specifically point out that the new edition lacks significant additional value, which could impact its replayability for veterans of the series. WellPlayed and Dexerto echo this sentiment, indicating that while the multiplayer experience is enjoyable, the campaign may feel short and somewhat dated, potentially limiting its appeal for those seeking a fresh experience. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and TheSixthAxis also caution that while the campaign remains timeless, those who have played it recently might not find enough incentive to return. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Gears of War: Reloaded offers a solid replay value primarily through its multiplayer and cooperative modes, with many reviewers praising the nostalgic factor and the engaging gameplay. However, there is a notable divide regarding the campaign's replayability, as several critics argue that it lacks the new content necessary to attract returning players. Critics like IGN Spain and Loot Level Chill highlight that while the game is enjoyable for newcomers and offers a robust multiplayer experience, veterans may find the replay value limited due to the absence of significant enhancements or new features. Thus, while the game successfully caters to multiplayer enthusiasts, its campaign mode may not provide the same level of replay incentive for all players.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Gears of War: Reloaded is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the remaster for its successful preservation of the original's charm while enhancing various aspects. Critics like Cultura Geek and But Why Tho? highlight the game's improved visuals, audio, and gameplay mechanics, which contribute to an enjoyable experience for both newcomers and veterans. The remaster is celebrated for evoking nostalgia, as noted by CGMagazine and Hobby Consolas, while also providing a solid foundation for modern players. Critics such as Dexerto and Gamereactor UK go so far as to label it the definitive version of the classic shooter, emphasizing its engaging gameplay and DualSense integration on PS5. However, there are notable criticisms that suggest Gears of War: Reloaded falls short of expectations in several areas. GameStar and Meristation argue that the remaster lacks substantial improvements and fails to offer enough new content for players familiar with previous editions. Additionally, some reviewers, including WellPlayed and Final Weapon, mention technical issues and over-polishing that detract from the overall experience. The sentiment that the remaster could have been more ambitious is echoed by critics like Player 2 and SpazioGames, who feel that while the game is enjoyable, it does not fully capitalize on the potential of modern technology. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Gears of War: Reloaded is a solid remaster that successfully brings a classic to a new audience while retaining its core elements. While many reviewers, including IGN Spain and PlayStation Universe, recommend it for both new and returning players, they also acknowledge its limitations, such as minor technical flaws and a lack of significant updates. Overall, the remaster is seen as a worthwhile experience, particularly for those who have not yet played the original, but it leaves some veterans wishing for a more comprehensive overhaul.

TL;DR

Gears of War: Reloaded earns mostly positive reviews, praised for enhancing the original's charm with improved visuals, audio, and gameplay, making it a hit for newcomers and veterans alike. Critics hail it as the definitive version, especially on PS5, but some argue it lacks substantial new content and suffers from minor technical issues. While it's a satisfying remaster that evokes nostalgia, many veterans feel it could have pushed the boundaries of modern technology further. Overall, it’s a solid experience for new players, though veterans may want more.

MONSTER

Reviews

68 reviews found

100

Loot Level Chill

PlayStation 5

Aug 26, 2025