Gears 5: What It Gets Right & What to Consider

Gears 5 is a solid third-person shooter that improves on its predecessor in almost every way, but it also makes a few changes that long-time fans should weigh before jumping in. This article breaks down the game’s strengths, its potential drawbacks, and what you should know before you start playing.

Formula

The average pace is the total time divided by the distance traveled:

Pace (min/km) = Total Time (min) ÷ Distance (km)

Average speed is distance divided by time in hours:

Speed (km/h) = Distance (km) ÷ (Total Time (min) ÷ 60)

Variables: t = total time in minutes, d = distance in kilometers. Pace is expressed in minutes per kilometer; speed in kilometers per hour.

Worked Example

Using the default values (50 minutes, 10 km):

• Pace = 50 ÷ 10 = 5.00 min/km
• Speed = 10 ÷ (50 ÷ 60) = 10 ÷ 0.8333 = 12.00 km/h

The calculator shows a pace of 5:00 per km and a speed of 12.0 km/h.

What Gears 5 Gets Right

Gears 5 delivers the signature cover-based combat, the satisfying “roadie run,� and the brutal gore that defines the series. The campaign is bigger and more varied than Gears of War 4, with semi-open areas that let you choose your path. The characters are more developed, and the story takes risks that pay off for longtime fans. The multiplayer is also refined, with tighter aiming and a better progression system.

What to Consider Before Playing

If you are new to the series, the story may feel confusing because it continues directly from Gears of War 4. The game also introduces a new character, Kait, and shifts focus away from the traditional protagonist, Marcus Fenix. Some fans miss the linear, corridor-style levels of the original trilogy. Additionally, the game requires a significant amount of storage space (around 80 GB) and an internet connection for the first-time setup, even for the single-player campaign.

Game Modes and Multiplayer

Gears 5 offers several modes:

• Campaign: A story mode that can be played solo or in co-op (split-screen or online).
• Versus: Competitive multiplayer with modes like Team Deathmatch and King of the Hill.
• Horde: A co-op survival mode where you defend against waves of enemies.
• Escape: A newer mode where you and your squad must escape from a hive.

Each mode has its own learning curve, but the core mechanics remain the same: use cover, aim for headshots, and execute downed enemies.

Technical Performance and Settings

On PC, Gears 5 is well-optimized, offering a wide range of graphics settings and support for ultrawide monitors. On Xbox, it runs at 60 frames per second on the newer consoles, but on older hardware you may experience lower frame rates. The game also supports cross-play between Xbox and PC, so you can play with friends regardless of platform.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Skipping the tutorial: The game teaches you advanced moves like the “roadie runâ€� and “wall bouncing.â€� Skipping it can leave you at a disadvantage in multiplayer.
• Not using cover effectively: Gears is a cover-based shooter; running into open areas will get you killed quickly.
• Ignoring the active reload: Timing the reload bar correctly gives you a damage boost. Practice it early.
• Forgetting to upgrade skills in Horde: Spend your energy on fortifications and character abilities, not just ammo.

System Requirements and Costs

For PC, the minimum requirements include a GTX 760 or equivalent, while the recommended specs suggest a GTX 970 or better. The game is available on Xbox Game Pass, which is often the most cost-effective way to play. If you buy it outright, the price varies by edition, but the standard version typically includes the full campaign and multiplayer.

Alternatives and Similar Games

If you enjoy Gears 5, you might also like:

• Halo Infinite: A sci-fi shooter with a strong multiplayer component.
• Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2: A third-person shooter with similar over-the-shoulder combat.
• Remnant 2: A co-op shooter with a focus on boss fights and loot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to play previous Gears games to understand Gears 5?

It helps, but the game provides a “Previously on Gears� recap at the start. If you are new, you can follow the main story, but you will miss some character motivations and references.

Is Gears 5 cross-platform?

Yes, Gears 5 supports cross-play between Xbox and PC for all multiplayer modes. You can also play co-op campaign across platforms.

How long is the campaign?

The main story takes about 10-12 hours to complete. If you explore all the optional areas and collectibles, expect closer to 15 hours.

Can I play Gears 5 offline?

The campaign can be played offline after the initial setup, but you will need an internet connection for the first-time installation and for any updates. Multiplayer and Horde modes require an online connection.

Is there a battle pass?

Gears 5 uses a seasonal model with a free and a paid track. The paid track offers cosmetic items, but all gameplay-affecting content is free.

What is the best character to use in Horde?

It depends on your playstyle. For beginners, characters with defensive abilities like Marcus or JD are easier to use. Kait is better for aggressive players who want to deal more damage.

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in t | Finish time | min | 50 | 0
in d | Distance | km | 10 | 0
out pace | Average pace | min/km | t / d | 2
out speed | Average speed | km/h | d / (t / 60) | 2