While most things revealed today are set to release in 2020, Microsoft revealed Gears 5 will release on Sept. 5. Those who preorder it will get a character pack with characters from the upcoming Terminator: Dark Fate movie.
Many were probably surprised with the Terminator and Gears 5 collaboration but according to Microsoft, the partnership began in their early stages. “Skydance involved us early on, which was really helpful,” said Gears co-creator Rod Fergusson. “We got 3D body-scans, 3D models and the production notes from the set which we used as the basis for bringing these characters in the Gears world.”
“Working with the team at Xbox on this unique partnership has been a true collaboration from the beginning,” said David Ellison, CEO, Skydance Media. “We’re confident that immersing iconic characters Sarah Connor and the Terminator T-800 Endoskeleton into the Gears universe will enhance the experience for fans of both franchises around the globe.”
Along with the release date, two new trailers were shown. One focuses on Gears 5, with the other one covering preorder bonuses.
“Linda’s portrayal of Sarah Connor, particularly her transformation, is something that has inspired us in Gears 5,” said Fergusson. “Sarah’s journey takes a similar path to the evolution of Kait Diaz in Gears 5, they both get pulled into conflict against their will and it becomes a personal journey for each of them.”
“With Sarah, we got to follow along with the Terminator Dark Fate production design which formed the basis for what you see in the game. Beyond the required lights and proportion changes, the standard Gears weapon load-out requires even more tactical equipment, things like thigh holsters, and on the like. We worked together to make sure those details looked just right for both universes.”
“With the T-800 Endoskeleton, our goal was to embody the iconic qualities that everybody knows,” commented Fergusson. “But at the same time we were given the freedom to make it our own, including subtle changes like emissive lights that make it a great character for multiplayer, and the larger proportions — a signature characteristic of the Gears of War universe.”
According to Microsoft, The Terminator Dark Fate Character Pack also includes a special customizations specific to both Sarah Connor and T-800 Endoskeleton, letting them make a recognizable mark on the multiplayer battlefield.
Gears 5 will be available worldwide on September 10, with early access beginning on September 6 for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members and Ultimate Edition purchasers.