Gears of War 2 'All Fronts' retail compilation on July 28
Gears of War 2 has done tremendously well, with Epic announcing that the game has sold over 5 million copies. So, how does a company celebrate such a milestone? Enter the "All Fronts" compilation, a $19.99 (£14.99/€19.99 for our European brethren) retail expansion that includes all of the game's previously released DLC map packs (Flashback, Combustible, and Snowblind) plus something new. Epic will also mix in "Dark Corners," a pack that includes seven new multiplayer maps and a deleted campaign chapter called "Road to Ruin."
"Road to Ruin" sees Marcus and Dom teaming up again to go into the Hollow and take down some more Locust. What's interesting is that the press release mentions two ways to play this scenario: "guns blazing or in all-new stealth mode." Curious, indeed!
The retail-only package will also provide more purchasing incentive in a custom Live theme, poster, strategy guide, and an introductory video by Cliff Bleszinski. The Dark Corners content will also be available separately, directly through Xbox Live for 1600
($20) for those of us who already own the previously released DLC (where's our discount for being loyal?). Head past the break for a summary of the new maps from the press release.
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Official map descriptions:
Allfathers Garden: Honor the sacred grounds of the Coalition founders in this explosive map, where powerful weapons catalyze fast and furious action at this COG landmark.
Memorial: Set near the Eternal Flame, which pays tribute to the fallen soldiers on the battlefield, a hard-fought battle ensues at the Tomb of Unknowns. Putting their flank formation and evasive skills to the test, players will fight to control the Boomshot.
Sanctuary: Once a peaceful ground for reflection and remembrance, all that remains of the Sanctuary is the chill of death. Feast your eyes on the arsenal of weapons available as you make your way through the tight paths and blind corners of the Locust-damaged temple corridors.
War Machine: In the abandoned train station that once served as a hub for travel, players will need to master the Longshot, Mulcher and Boomshot weapons to advance the fight while evading fire from the platforms above.
Highway: Take the fight deep into the Locust Hollow in the complex passages of this underground highway system brimming with enemy vermin. Stick together, separate the enemy and have an exit strategy ready or it'll be a one-way trip.
Way Station: Sitting in limbo between death and "processing" are Locust way stations filled with fallen COG soldiers. Tread lightly and practice patience as it's better to sacrifice firepower for stealth while navigating this minefield of hidden grenades.
Nowhere: Set in the middle of what was once a destination for weary desert travellers, the land is now barren and devoid of life. Pick off your enemies with the Longshot sniper rifle and make your way to the stairwell with a well-fortified team during this intense firefight.
