Gears Of War 3: Here comes the Horde...again

[aubergine]

Destined to go down as the most bungled game announce ever?

http://m.kotaku.com/site?t=ahPxUjIP22kcZwvlFupJPg&sid=kotakuip

[AranchineD]

In before:

-"The games are all shit, even though I'm not a shooter fan and/or I suck at shooters"
-"Why don't Microsoft put dedicated servers up already?"
-"If they put a few more epic set pieces in and take the vehicles out/do the vehicle sections better, it'll be great"
-"It's going to be great regardless!"

[Vindik8or]

In before:

-"The games are all shit, even though I'm not a shooter fan and/or I suck at shooters"
-"Why don't Microsoft put dedicated servers up already?"
-"If they put a few more epic set pieces in and take the vehicles out/do the vehicle sections better, it'll be great"
-"It's going to be great regardless!"

I've never played the games as they've never really piqued my interest, plus I don't own the console/s on which they would run. I wish the developers all the success in the world as long as I don't have to contribute to it.

Didn't inb4 that, did ya?

[AranchineD]

*I suck at shooters

[Clockw0rk]

*I'm going to rape co-op campaign and horde with my flatmates and never touch online MP

[Slippery]

I don't have a Micro$oft Sexbox Three-Shitty.

[Natrak]

Underwater combat! Tremendous!

[Bokracroc]

So they were going to announce a game we already knew was coming anyway?

[Watchers]

I've never played the games as they've never really peaked my interest, plus I don't own the console/s on which they would run. I wish the developers all the success in the world as long as I don't have to contribute to it.

Didn't inb4 that, did ya?

Gears 1 came out on PC. That's the platform I bought it for... Having to play Gears 2 with a gamepad made me sad.

[Vindik8or]

*I suck at shooters

Post a score on Robot Unicorn Attack, then come back with your casting of aspersions.

Gears 1 came out on PC. That's the platform I bought it for... Having to play Gears 2 with a gamepad made me sad.

Did it really? Still not that interested, to be honest.

[AranchineD]

okay rypien_vin i'll post a screen of a non-shooting game to s'how i'm better at shooting than you

[Watchers]

Did it really? Still not that interested, to be honest.

Played very well for a port, too. Though it is a Games for Windows Live title...ew....

[Starscream]

In before:

-"The games are all shit, even though I'm not a shooter fan and/or I suck at shooters"
-"Why don't Microsoft put dedicated servers up already?"
-"If they put a few more epic set pieces in and take the vehicles out/do the vehicle sections better, it'll be great"
-"It's going to be great regardless!"

This and:

- ditch the trueskill matchmaking system they have for Gears 2
- local search for MP (learn from MW2's mistake, Epic)
- bring back quick MP matches from Gears 1
- free for all MP.

/end wishlist.

[Vindik8or]

okay rypien_vin i'll post a screen of a non-shooting game to s'how i'm better at shooting than you

It's not better than, I just want to see that you're able to post a legitimate score for a game, rather than just making threads about it and crying that it's too hard or rainbowy. Then we can talk about shooting games. Neverminding, of course, that the skills are identical, it's just the graphical representation and semiotics of what's happening that's different.

[AranchineD]

Well quite clearly with that attitude you must be failing your game design course

[Vindik8or]

Waa waa I can't play games.

Yeah man, I know.

[Slippery]

Gears 1 came out on PC. That's the platform I bought it for.

Played very well for a port, too. Though it is a Games for Windows Live title...ew....

Yeah this basically. GfWL is kinda janky.

[AranchineD]

It's okay Vin, just take being called out on not knowing the very basics of what constitutes a video game with dignity.

[aubergine]

I've never played the games as they've never really peaked my interest-

For some reason I completly lose my mind when people write "peaked my interest" - it's "piqued" god damn it! PIQUÉ MY INTEREST!

As for Gears, they seem like profoundly stupid games as far as narrative goes but are well made. I recently found Gears 1 runs much better after install and possibly a patch, want to try finishing it. Gears 2 I'll buy for $30 from Game (LE) to co op with housemate, pretty terrific co op game from what little I played before.

[TrinityJayOne]

Yes, yes it is. The story is indeed not brilliant, but the set pieces and the gameplay in general make for a very engaging experience.

[Vindik8or]

Oh shit. I even know that, I must've been playing too many shooting games.

It's okay Vin, just take being called out on not knowing the very basics of what constitutes a video game with dignity.

I don't know, man, between the two of us, I actually play games.

[aubergine]

Oh shit. I even know that, I must've been playing too many shooting games.

Between that and hearing every ****er on the radio mispronounce "kilometre" I feel like I'm surrounded.

[AranchineD]

I don't know, man, between the two of us, I actually play games.

Hi, I'm Vin, and I keep posting meaningless one line responses as if they actually have any relevance whatsoever.

[fishfishmonkeyhat]

Vin, this typo is kinda a big deal!

THE FACT YOU "KNEW" ONLY MAKES IT WORSE!

[Vindik8or]

Hi, I'm Vin, and I keep posting meaningless one line responses as if they actually have any relevance whatsoever.

Don't listen to this guy, I'm the real Vin.

No really. Oh wai...

[aubergine]

No I'M Vindicus!

[Hyperblau]

http://www.latenightwithjimmyfallon.com/blogs/2010/04/gears-of-war-3-video-game-world-premiere-trailer-ashes-to-ashes/

Trailer wasnt that great to be honest. Seems like it wants to be the trailer for the original game. I'm gonna buy this anyway so it doesn't really matter.

[Natrak]

The trailer fit right in with the other trailers the Gears games have gotten. You could argue that each trailer since the Gears 1 Theatrical trailer has been an attempt to replicate its success, but I'd say it's just that that's how they've decided to promote the series. I thought the big somber trailer for Gears 2 was better than the one for Gears 1, personally, and while I'm not sure where I stand on this new trailer I did think it was pretty good.

[AranchineD]

Wait, female soldiers?

But that would mean they're responding to people criticising the game for having stereotypical steroid junkie soldiers shooting aliens together and being homo-erotic bros and all.

That would mean they didn't do that on purpose in order to be ironic!

That would mean the story and setting in the first two games is shit!

[Natrak]

To suggest that just because they've included female soldiers that there's no sense of irony in the Gears series is dumb. There's very clearly a sense for it; mind you, even with the irony the story is pretty lame. My guess is they're throwing female soldiers in to sell the desperation of the situation.

Pretty sure the female soldier in the trailer is Anya Stroud, and it wouldn't surprise me if she's one of the few female soldiers we really see anyway.

[grimace06]

Wait, female soldiers?

But that would mean they're responding to people criticising the game for having stereotypical steroid junkie soldiers shooting aliens together and being homo-erotic bros and all.

That would mean they didn't do that on purpose in order to be ironic!

That would mean the story and setting in the first two games is shit!

Wait, "Brothers to the end?"

But that would mean that they're infact all male; especially if you look at the fact that they're all actually male and the blonde is more likely Baird with a new hairstyle or a different character all together

That would mean I am reading too much into a trailer!

That would mean we have no idea about the setting the game!

[REQUIEM]

Looks good IMO and I have time to get around to finishing off the last couple of levels on part 2. It still looks samey but add a blonde and its ready to go. Go brown colour spectrum.

[Xanafalgue]

Can't wait :)

[Mr.Mew]

Go brown colour spectrum.

Looks more grey this time around. New colour trend I'ma guess.

[KeenBean]

need too finish GoW2 soon...

this could be good, and hopefully they have a good MP and keeps alive for a while.

[Almighty Beanchild]

Wait, "Brothers to the end?"

But that would mean that they're infact all male; especially if you look at the fact that they're all actually male and the blonde is more likely Baird with a new hairstyle or a different character all together

That would mean I am reading too much into a trailer!

That would mean we have no idea about the setting the game!

Baird is the new Edwin.

[themoob]

As long as the matchmaking works, I'll be happy.

[sausage]

Never played the series and have no interest; I'm just posting to try out my new keyboard.

[HiredMan]

Never played the series and have no interest; I'm just posting to try out my new keyboard.

Shit, the sausage is back!

[Blob]

Figure this is the new Gears of War thread so im posting here. Anyone else tried out the new Multiplayer update for 2? It actually allows you to play online, im finding games within a minute now. Lvl 100 is going to take a while though.

[TrinityJayOne]

Ooooooh. I wouldn't mind doing some Horde, the poo matchmaking always kept me away.

[KeenBean]

is this update free? always been keen to try some MP but when i first got it like 2 months ago i couldn't find a single game.

[MacGuyver]

Looks like they've halved the prices on the DLC at the moment for Gears of War 2, the All Fronts Collection is only 800pts now. I haven't got this yet so I reckon that's pretty good!

[Blob]

Yep its just a standard free update and it finally makes the game what it should be when released.
My gamertag is Blobbeh151 if your interested in having a team Hyper game or two.

[Ninjalada]

KDovI1Ru3Ls

[REQUIEM]

Original Gangsta set to star in GEARS of WAR 3.

http://www.gametrailers.com/news/ice-t-in-gears-of-war-3/2238

[Xanafalgue]

Apparently they're using dedicated servers this time around? Jeepers creepers

[Blob]

Apparently they're using dedicated servers this time around? Jeepers creepers

Good, hopefully theyll work too.
A few posts ago when I said matchmaking was working fine, ignore that. Stuff worked for almost a week then they added in some kind of filter that seems to haver blocked people from outside of the US and UK from playing ranked... Really a d**k move to the rest of the world considering how well it worked for a while.

[Starscream]

Apparently they're using dedicated servers this time around? Jeepers creepers
Hahaha. A bit late for April fools though. Good one Epic.

Took you two GoW games to work that out? Hope you learned from IW MW2 in matchmaking & lag issues.

[Xanafalgue]

Downloaded the beta and uploaded it to a USB. I'm ready to go :cool:

[Xanafalgue]

Beta is ****ing awesome.

Unfortunately I hear Epic might be banning people for the methods I used! I don't see how but I don't want to risk it.

TIME TO BUST OUT MY OTHER 360 heheheh

[Natrak]

Got in about 5 matches this evening, seems pretty good. Love ending a round senselessly beating on a dude with his own arm.

Also, I suck.

[TrinityJayOne]

How does one get this beta you speak of? Should I fire up the kettle?

[Natrak]

I don't know if you can get it in hot beverage form or if people were just sharing gamertags, LARZ might be able to help you there. The beta is now open to anyone who bought the Bulletstorm Epic Edition and redeemed the online pass, though, that's how I'm playing. EB Gears 3 pre-orders also get access starting next week.

[Xanafalgue]

I have the beta, I just formatted a USB stick in the 360 and put it on, it's only 88MB but it prompts you to d/l a 507MB file.

However, there is the risk of getting banned from the retail version using this method (SUPPOSEDLY). I didn't want to take any risk so I just created a Gold account on my other 360.

[TrinityJayOne]

Ah ok, gotcha.

[Blackwater]

Beta is pretty damn sweet, after playing a few matches you come to question how Gears keeps getting through and Mortal Kombat gets banned

[Spazzola]

Locust are like zombies; they aren't 'people'.

[Xanafalgue]

Got a legit code but I have to wait until the 25th... >:O

[Natrak]

Anybody want a beta code?

[Starscream]

Anybody want a beta code?

I'll take it. Send a PM thanks!

[Natrak]

PM sent.

[CrimsonFury]

Locust are like zombies; they aren't 'people'.

As a locust in multiplayer you can rip a humans arm off and beat them to death with the bloody end....

[Xanafalgue]

I got a code too if anybody wants it.

[Sweating Bullets]

Epic Edition contents:


http://content.ebgames.com.au/website/images/detail/153373_detail.jpg

[Spazzola]

Is that a flag?

[Sweating Bullets]

Details may help:

http://www.kotaku.com.au/2011/05/the-rich-persons-edition-of-gears-of-war-3/
Stolen from Kotaku:


Limited Edition ($79.99 US) – The must-have for fans who want to celebrate the culmination of the trilogy, the Limited Edition includes:

• An Octus Award Box with Octus Service Medal – A 1:1 match in size and weight, this zinc-alloy cog-shaped medal replicates the award given to Adam Fenix in recognition of his work on the Hammer of Dawn. [Dimensions: 77 mm (3 in.) x 10 mm (0.4 in.)

• Exclusive Unlockable Adam Fenix Multiplayer Character – Each Octus Service Medal replica is engraved with a unique Xbox LIVE code that is the only way to unlock Adam Fenix in multiplayer.

• A fabric COG Flag – Proud colours that once flew above the House of Sovereigns.

• The personal effects of Adam Fenix, including his “Last Will and Testament,” the initial Hammer of Dawn schematic, and other Fenix family mementos.

Epic Edition ($149.99 US) – The ultimate collection for hardcore fans who can’t get enough “Gears of War 3,” the Epic Edition includes:

• A Limited Edition Marcus Fenix Statue – Designed by Epic Games Art Director Chris Perna and expertly crafted by the artisans at Triforce, this fine PVC statue collectible makes the ultimate living room centerpiece for any true “Gears” fan. [Dimensions: height 285 mm (11.2 in.), diameter 225 mm (8.9 in. Weight: 1.7 kg (3.7 lb.)

• The Art and Design of Gears of War by Tom Bissell – Through unprecedented access to the Epic Games team, acclaimed author Tom Bissell (Extra Lives) gives readers an incisive behind-the-scenes glimpse into one of the most celebrated sagas in video game history with 96 pages of interviews, photos, concept artwork and more.

• Infected Omen Weapon Pack — Custom multiplayer skins for the game’s five starting weapons; Lancer, Retro Lancer, Hammerburst, Sawed-off Shotgun, and Gnasher Shotgun.

• All the contents of the “Gears of War 3” Limited Edition.

[Starscream]

^ More expensive plastic crap :/

MP beta is awesome. Just have to fix matchmaking issues (CBF looking on google, I think it was using the "true skill" matchmaking is what made MP crap for Gears 2 on launch).

Going to buy standard edition on launch.

[Natrak]

I didn't play much ranked but I didn't have any trouble getting into social games.

[Xanafalgue]

BrjvrHaOOpw

noice

[Spazzola]

Looks like DLC will take more of a BF:BC2 approach rather than the CoD approach. (http://epicgames.com/community/2011/08/gears-of-war-3-season-pass-available-sept-20th/)

[Xanafalgue]

One week to go :O

[Xanafalgue]

$69 at Kmart btw

[Spazzola]

Nice, I've only just saved up $70 :)

[Sweating Bullets]

Anyone else getting the Epic Edition?

[Natrak]

Yes because I am a crazy person.

[Starscream]

Why??

[Spazzola]

As much as the flag is pretty cool, it just isn't this:

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/294185_244078762293910_195103897191397_638092_7025 119_n.jpg

[Starscream]

As much as the flag is pretty cool, it just isn't this:

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/294185_244078762293910_195103897191397_638092_7025 119_n.jpg

GAME end of year clearance:

Normal Lancer $10

Gold Lancer $15

[aubergine]

Eurogamer 8/10

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-09-14-gears-of-war-3-review

[Xanafalgue]

Eurogamer strikes again. Even Edge gave it a 9, which is like, 39420/10 for most normal publications.

[aubergine]

Digital Foundry write a glowing article on the game's technical achievements.

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-vs-gears-of-war-3

[Starscream]

Jickle has a review copy. This is one game I'll probably buy at launch.

EDIT: I think normal edition is $68 at K-Mart.

[Sweating Bullets]

Noticing that a fair few people have it early (reviewers and celebrities) on Twitter.

Is anyone getting that gold lancer replica from EB? I don' think I will get to play Gears 3 until Thursday or so - my brother and I are taking my dad out for his birthday on Tuesday and I think we have a migration at work on Wednesday night.

[Starscream]

Noticing that a fair few people have it early (reviewers and celebrities) on Twitter.

Is anyone getting that gold lancer replica from EB? I don' think I will get to play Gears 3 until Thursday or so - my brother and I are taking my dad out for his birthday on Tuesday and I think we have a migration at work on Wednesday night.

Buying regular edition of games means more money to buy other games later. Unless the "special edition" is the same price (or you really want the special edition).

Replica gold lancer = cheap labour + cheap materials + huge markup

Besides, I'd rather a normal black lancer. :/

[dimorphic]

I pre ordered the CE (without the statue) from EB but $68 at K-Mart is pretty damn tempting. I might slide my preorder onto Skyrim and grab the special...

[Starscream]

I pre ordered the CE (without the statue) from EB but $68 at K-Mart is pretty damn tempting. I might slide my preorder onto Skyrim and grab the special...

For those that can't get to a K-mart, it's the same price at JB ($68 or $69).

EDIT: If you pre-order at JB (one day left, LOL, I assume you get the pre-order stuff - two character codes for MP and a wall scroll) source (http://www.jbhifi.com.au/games/gears-of-war-3/)

[Lazlow]

Sweet, Gears of Wazzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

[Lazlow]

run, shoot, run, cover, shoot, run, cut scene, run, shoot, shoot, course language, brofist, shoot, cover, run, cut scene

[Starscream]

run, shoot, run, cover, shoot, run, cut scene, run, shoot, shoot, course language, brofist, shoot, cover, run, cut scene
Pretty much covers it.

[Munky]

run, shoot, run, cover, shoot, run, cut scene, run, shoot, shoot, course language, brofist, shoot, cover, run, cut scene

You make it sound like a bad thing.

If may be simple but no one executes it better.

[voltron]

You make it sound like a bad thing.

If may be simple but no one executes it better.

Good point. Dont forget the executions.

Cant wait!

[Xanafalgue]

It's out!

I have to wait until Thursday when a friend can drive me around because of my shitty injury, boo!

[Spazzola]

What's the cheapest everyone has seen it for (on and offline)? I'll probably be getting it for $62.90 today; I've noticed that two of my last three game purchases have been from Shin Toyko o.O

[MacGuyver]

Ozgameshop have the standard edition for $59.99 delivered, $64.99 for the steelbook edition and $94.99 for the limited collectors edition. I'm getting my standard edition copy from JB Hifi for $69.

[dimorphic]

I grabbed the standard from JB for $69. I had a good solid hit with the single player and it was pretty sweet.

But I'm very impressed with the multiplayer, I played overseas players and experience no lag. Very good first impressions.

[AyatollaofRocknRolla]

I'll probably have to wait till next week to play this. I ordered the limited edition from Zavvi.

[Thraxas]

I grabbed this today. Put the disc in and got the RRoD... :-(

[aubergine]

Take it back and go, I think it was to Big W, who I just saw today have 250g 360 with Kinect and Gears 3 for $400. If it wasnt Big W it was JB or EB but I think... Ooh, maybe it was EB. One of those three.

[aubergine]

Its at EB until 29 sep. Also comes with Kinect Adventures.

[Thraxas]

Thanks.. New Xbox now purchased, licenses transferred... Time to play...

[Starscream]

I grabbed the standard from JB for $69. I had a good solid hit with the single player and it was pretty sweet.

But I'm very impressed with the multiplayer, I played overseas players and experience no lag. Very good first impressions.

Good to hear but is the matchmaking as bad as it was in Gears 2? Or there is a quick match option somewhere there?


What's the cheapest everyone has seen it for (on and offline)? I'll probably be getting it for $62.90 today; I've noticed that two of my last three game purchases have been from Shin Toyko o.O

Region free Asia version $55 AU incl. post from Play Asia (has chinese writing on the front).

Can't be bothered waiting two weeks, so looks like it'll be JB tomorrow.

Who's up for some horde action this weekend?

[Cerebral]

God damn everything in this game is a massive bullet sponge.

[Spazzola]

I'm hoping it will become more difficult, but the first few hours on hardcore isn't really all that difficult. If only they'd allow insane from the word go.

I do like the squad AI though, they can handle themselves and if you over-extend yourself, they'll usually sprint to pull you back up (even if they cut it fine sometimes).

Also, what the hell have they done to Dizzy's voice?

[MacGuyver]

I'm playing it on hardcore as well and noticed the lack of difficulty. I was starting to wonder if you could actually die, because any time I needed to be revived it seemed like the enemies would then focus on other members of my squad thus giving me time to be revived. I've only come close to death because I've been running in trying to chainsaw everything! :p

[Almighty Beanchild]

I don't know how I feel about this one. The story feels disjointed, a lot of the cutscene animation feels a bit worse. And the gameplay see-saws between stupidly difficult sections where giant bullet sponge enemies stand perfectly still and kill you with one hit, which you mostly seem to get through by luck or by your AI squad constantly reviving you, or stupidly easy where boneheaded minions run around achieving nothing.

The parts which are difficult don't feel satisfying to overcome, it feels like random chance because the challenges aren't anything tactical to be overcome, it's usually just "Do I have enough bullets to kill the third lambent drudge they've thrown at me this fight?"

I'm about halfway through, and I think one of the central gameplay problems is the emphasis on lambents over grubs. All of the sections which included grubs have felt good. The grubs are tactically challenging and satisfying to kill. There's variety in their forces with some using regular guns, but also snipers, diggers, boomers, reavers and royal guard. Lambents seem retarded; some have guns, but not many, they don't use cover properly and are only challenging because their big guys take more bullets to kill. Also their models are shitty. It's the same frustration I experienced with every level in Halo involving the Flood. Waves and waves of stupid enemies aren't fun.

The human lambents are the worst yet, as well. They're just glowing zombies. We already had lambent Plus their introduction is alongside killing a character which I think shouldn't have been killed. And if they were to be killed, the death should have been delivered with a lot more emotional impact. Although I don't really come to Gears for the storytelling.

That said, I can see it being a lot more fun in Insane mode, once I unlock it, and there have been some pretty great one-liners.

Also (and this one is a pet peeve, not an actual criticism), ****, why do people who make these games feel obliged to put Australians in them, and when they do, why do they make them have such ****ing broad accents that makes them sound fake? I hate that Sam bitch just on the way she sounds. I know she's done by Claudia Black who actually is Australian, but it doesn't stop it sounding fake as hell on Gears. At least on Farscape, seeing the sound come from a person made it acceptable. Putting her voice on an animated character just bugs me.

[Cerebral]

Apparently Bernie is supposed to be like 60. What the heck is this.

[Cerebral]

Cole Train thrashball bomb plant bit was great, btw

[Almighty Beanchild]

Cole Train thrashball bomb plant bit was great, btw

Oh yeah, that rules. In fact, that section where you play Cole/Baird was the best part of the game so far.

[TrinityJayOne]

Damn late shifts are making it very difficult to pick this up.

[Spazzola]

I've just hit the part with the sub and I've noticed the same thing regarding Lambent and Locust. The sections with the Locust have encouraged me to use available cover and stay on the move, closing the distance and flanking when possible. Yet with the Lambent, I've just equipped my shotgun and gone for broke.

What is everyone's opinion on the Retro Lancer and new Hammerburst sight? I've found myself avoiding the Retro Lancer as the recoil annoys me, while I'm loving what they've done with the Hammerburst.

[Natrak]

Hammerburst iron sights are pretty great. It might be just my imagination, but I think the Retro Lancer was a lot more enjoyable to use in the multiplayer beta.

[VanAce]

http://edge.alluremedia.com.au/m/k/2011/09/gears-3.jpg

[Cerebral]

Oh yeah, that rules. In fact, that section where you play Cole/Baird was the best part of the game so far.

Last act was the best. It was more or less the same nonstop badassery as the penultimate act in Gears 2 without the gloomy setting.

[Cerebral]

Also

Carmine **** yeah

[TrinityJayOne]

<image>
Looks legit.

So I'm probably not going to get this until it's dirt cheap, no budget for games right now!

[Xanafalgue]

Graphics are awesome!

[MacGuyver]

Is anyone else having issues with AI squad mates getting in the way of your shots during the campaign? I'm there trying to shoot at a bad guy and before I know it Dom or someone else is running in trying to chainsaw the same guy. I had a similar problem with the AI squad members during Vanquish.

[Spazzola]

"Down in front."

I've lost count of how many times Marcus has said that.

[voltron]

Holy **** this game really does look ridiculously awesome hey. Epic kinda know how to work that UE3 Engine by now I guess.

[Starscream]

I'm hoping it will become more difficult, but the first few hours on hardcore isn't really all that difficult. If only they'd allow insane from the word go...
Hardcore seems like normal difficulty in Gears 3. :(

[Xanafalgue]

Finished the campaign in co-op, really enjoyed it! Better than the previous games, that's for sure.

[Munky]

Hardcore seems like normal difficulty in Gears 3. :(

Aye, I'm playing on normal and it seems to easy where as there was a decent challenge in the previous games.

[Starscream]

Execution MP is where it's at: One shot kills and also getting up close and "personal". :)

[Almighty Beanchild]

Last act was the best. It was more or less the same nonstop badassery as the penultimate act in Gears 2 without the gloomy setting.

I just finished the game and definitely. The gameplay in the last section was great. It was mostly Locust and not much Lambent, which is what I wanted all game.

Also, I love the Retro Lancer. It has so much stopping power, and the bayonet charge is incredibly satisfying, way moreso than the chainsaw.

[Munky]

I just finished the game and definitely. The gameplay in the last section was great. It was mostly Locust and not much Lambent, which is what I wanted all game.

Also, I love the Retro Lancer. It has so much stopping power, and the bayonet charge is incredibly satisfying, way moreso than the chainsaw.

I agree about fighting the Locust being far more fun than the Lambent.

The Lambent brought back memories of the Flood and I've done my best to bury them.

I'm dissapointed there was no true explanation of the facility you come accross in Act of Gears 2 and that the Locust and queen are still a mystery.

[voltron]

Yeah **** the lambent.

[Cerebral]

I actually think as a whole I liked the campaign in Gears 2 a lot better (save for the disappointing final act) - acts 2, 3 and 4 were lengthy but really well paced. The middle section of Gears 3 mostly revolved around jumping around looking in two places for submarine fuel, before finding some right next to the goddamn submarine. the whole bit dealing with Aaron Griffin felt like a complete waste of time. It was fun, but felt like a sidequest.

[Starscream]

If you have a Facebook account and "like" the Gears of War page, you get a DLC character for MP (Griffin IIRC voiced by Ice-T).

[Spazzola]

I mucked around with Horde and Beast yesterday with a friend; wow. It's great to be able to play as the Locust. With only two people it was extremely satisfying and I can see it only improving once you hit four or five players. Berserkers and Maulers are all well and good (as my friend's score repeatedly shows), but I've found myself favouring the Kantus (Gorgon Pistol ftw) and centipede. If I ever say "nom" around my friend again, I think he'll kill me.

The changes they've done to Horde are definately improvements. The fortifications seemed like a small change but they ended up changing the way we played. There's also something cool about having boss waves where you watch those Lambent artillery guys and various Locust heavies fighting away while you try not to get caught in the crossfire, and others where you're crapping yourself at the lumbering Brumack that's come to say hi.

[naclj]

did a mammoth single sitting 4 player play through on sunday and im all geared out.
great game though i don't think they really looked to hard at balancing for 4 players.

i did most of the campaign in hardcore myself and i agree it was pretty easy.
4 player co-op however became completely insane all of a sudden.
it was quite easy for the entire game except for 2 boss fights.
the mid game lambent boss was crazy, we spent over an hour on it and gave up. i then proceed to complete it solo on my first go with absolutely no sweat.

the same happened with the final boss, we tried for ages (admitted after literally an entire day playing) and could not beat the final stage of it.
eventually we lowered to casual just so we could see the final cut scene.

i've since 2 player co-oped both fights with no problems.

after all that though it is a great co-op game, i LOVE the new horde mode and beast mode is much more fun than i was expecting.

but i too think the ending was slightly rushed, you never find out the connection with the queen or what the dad was doing for all those years, but then again you do get to blow shit up and thats really all i expect from a GoW game

[Starscream]

Are they only selling the overpriced gold Retro Lancer here in Australia?

The modern lancer looks better though

http://www.infinitygames.com.au/images/gow%20lancer%20replica.jpg

[ScToTeE]

I'm loving Team Deathmatch at the moment. Battling over the high ground in Overpass, flanking and counter-flanking inside Hotel, coordinating final stands in the television room in Checkout or the concession stands in Thrashball etc. Two days in and I've already played over hundred MP matches. Uni assessments be damned!

[Spazzola]

If anyone is interested in even attempting the Seriously 3.0 achievement, just a warning on the Doorman medal. While working my way to 2k interactions by grinding the piano (while reading the latest Hyper; yay, multitasking), I ended up counting the final 500. Instead of counting 500, I counted just shy of 1600 before the achievement unlocked (for first onyx). So be prepared for extended tedium.

[Natrak]

Why would you do that?

[ScToTeE]

If anyone is interested in even attempting the Seriously 3.0 achievement, just a warning on the Doorman medal. While working my way to 2k interactions by grinding the piano (while reading the latest Hyper; yay, multitasking), I ended up counting the final 500. Instead of counting 500, I counted just shy of 1600 before the achievement unlocked (for first onyx). So be prepared for extended tedium.

Thank you for making me realise how grateful I am to have broken my gamerscore obsession. :)

[Spazzola]

Why would you do that?

I'm a bit of a half-arsed completionist; I'll work on the majority of the achievements for a game and set a ratio goal for my gamercard. Though the main reason atm would probably be that I have shit all else planned for the mid-semester break.

In unrelated occurrences, here's a video showing an easter egg with a lambent chicken. I've chucked it in spoiler tags because the staff at RoosterTeeth enjoy a liberal vocabulary.
ljQfU-UAAJg

[Starscream]

Only achievement I want is "Judge, jury and executioner"

It's only the 200 kills on each of the shotguns and assault rifles that are a pain.

[Starscream]

Z01MtLRnpKY

[ScToTeE]

Only achievement I want is "Judge, jury and executioner"

It's only the 200 kills on each of the shotguns and assault rifles that are a pain.

I have played this game way too much already ...

I only need 200 kills with the hammerburst and retro lancer now. Both shotguns are close to 500 kills each and the normal lancer is at around 700 kills.

I could play this as obsessively as I have been for a year and still not get Seriously 3.0 ... I'm not shit enough to get the Nemesis medal.

[Starscream]

At least the Seriously 3.0 achievement is far more diverse than the Seriously 2.0 achievement in Gears 2.

[SOX]

Can you play online multiplayer splitscreen?

[Starscream]

Can you play online multiplayer splitscreen?
You mean two players at your console online? I think so because I'm sure I've seen two people with the same gamertag (e.g gamertag and gamertag(1) or something like that) in some MP matches I've played.

[Natrak]

I finished off the campaign in co-op last night and thought it was pretty damn great. The last act in particular was pretty excellent, I thought. I'd say I enjoyed Gears of War 2 more, though.

[Spazzola]

Can you play online multiplayer splitscreen?

With a guest profile, yeah. If you mean two different gamertags with gold, I should be finding out sometime tonight or tomorrow.

Edit: Yeah, two people per console/splitscreen.

[Xanafalgue]

I finished off the campaign in co-op last night and thought it was pretty damn great. The last act in particular was pretty excellent, I thought. I'd say I enjoyed Gears of War 2 more, though.

I felt that 3 lacked the cool setpieces 2 had.

I loved the vehicle sections in 3 though, the roadtrip in Act 3 was amazing!

And what happened to the Kryll? :(

[SOX]

You mean two players at your console online? I think so because I'm sure I've seen two people with the same gamertag (e.g gamertag and gamertag(1) or something like that) in some MP matches I've played.

Yeah like the way Halo 3/Reach does it. Awesome, might have to grab it later on.

[Starscream]

I finished off the campaign in co-op last night and thought it was pretty damn great. The last act in particular was pretty excellent, I thought. I'd say I enjoyed Gears of War 2 more, though.

Hardcore in Gears 2 is Insane in Gears 3. You die, you die. No more "revive me".

They broke tradition in Gears 3 though:
Soldier Carmine didn't die. Which is a good thing though

[Natrak]

And what happened to the Kryll? :(

Killed by the Light Mass Bomb in Gears 1.

[Xanafalgue]

Killed by the Light Mass Bomb in Gears 1.

Oh I didn't even realise. Cheers.

[Spazzola]

First wave of DLC announced. (http://epicgames.com/community/2011/10/gears-of-war-3-horde-command-pack-available-nov-1/) The gist is:
-New fortifications for horde (one new type, three new upgrades)
-Three new maps
-Three new characters
-Two new weapon skins
-Achievements worth a total of 250G
-Price is 800MS, unless you already have a season pass

[Starscream]

First wave of DLC announced. (http://epicgames.com/community/2011/10/gears-of-war-3-horde-command-pack-available-nov-1/) The gist is:
-New fortifications for horde (one new type, three new upgrades)
-Three new maps
-Three new characters
-Two new weapon skins
-Achievements worth a total of 250G
-Price is 800MS, unless you already have a season pass

Is the Season Pass a one-off purchase that lets you get all the maps, etc for a season/year rather than buying the map packs individually as they are released?

EDIT: I might wait for all the Gears 3 map packs to be released and hope they bundle it like the All Fronts collection for Gears 2 and get it at discount.

[Natrak]

The Season Pass sees you pay up front for the coming DLC packs at 33% off the total amount you'd pay if you were buying each one individually as they come out. It basically is the All Fronts Collection.

[Starscream]

The Season Pass sees you pay up front for the coming DLC packs at 33% off the total amount you'd pay if you were buying each one individually as they come out. It basically is the All Fronts Collection.
Cool.
Whilst it is a good incentive (discount), it's a bit much to ask for a (big) payment up front for the DLC packs and maps, which you may or may not like (unless you're really into MP Gears).

Blood Drive - one of the best maps in Gears 2, is part of the first DLC for Gears 3. That's why I was a bit hesistant to pay for the Season Pass.

Besides, I think all the DLC is already on the Gears 3 disc. We're just making an "unlocking" payment. :/

[Spazzola]

Cool.
Whilst it is a good incentive (discount), it's a bit much to ask for a (big) payment up front for the DLC packs and maps, which you may or may not like (unless you're really into MP Gears).

Blood Drive - one of the best maps in Gears 2, is part of the first DLC for Gears 3. That's why I was a bit hesistant to pay for the Season Pass.

Besides, I think all the DLC is already on the Gears 3 disc. We're just making an "unlocking" payment. :/

I agree with you in the up front payment being a bit much if you're not really into MP. I ended up getting mine because Gears 3's MP is something I can see myself returning to repeatedly. As for the DLC already being on the disc, I suppose the download size on release will (probably) hold the answer.

Speaking of MP, I've noticed that most of the deadliest players I've played with/against lately are Japanese. One ended up taking an amazing comeback in TDM - last man standing verse the other team (plus three reinforcements). A couple of incendiary grenades and whatever weapons he/she could pick up (mostly starters).

I've also noticed a lot of hate directed towards the sawn-off. I myself prefer the sawn-off because of it's multi-kill potential, but I find gnasher users far more lethal. What do all of you prefer?

When I've asked a few sawn-off haters why they dislike it so much, all I've gotten are claims of it being the "noobish" weapon and that it requires "no skill". Whereas I've noticed that the sawn-off requires a heightened situational awareness and foresight since after the one shot, you're completely helpless. I agree with 'haters' that it is easy to camp a corner and can get a few 'cheap' kills (from those blindly rushing around corners), but the exact same applies to gnasher users, except they have a few more shots per reload and the spread is more focused.

[Starscream]

I agree with you in the up front payment being a bit much if you're not really into MP. I ended up getting mine because Gears 3's MP is something I can see myself returning to repeatedly. As for the DLC already being on the disc, I suppose the download size on release will (probably) hold the answer.

I'd get the Season Pass if it was priced the same as the All Fronts Collection in Gears 2 (1800 MS points IIRC), but for (is it?) 2400, it's a bit much. If you're timing (and taste) is right, you can get between 4 to 6 (4x600=2400, 6x400=2400) arcade games on the game marketplace when they are on sale.

I still have some time to get the Season Pass, but I might just buy the first map pack only for Blood Drive map.

Speaking of MP, I've noticed that most of the deadliest players I've played with/against lately are Japanese. One ended up taking an amazing comeback in TDM - last man standing verse the other team (plus three reinforcements). A couple of incendiary grenades and whatever weapons he/she could pick up (mostly starters).

D6KpjuePQ58

^ One of the better clutch videos I have watched (especially with the quick scope kill), but there are some videos with 1 vs 11.

I mainly play "Execution" and the occassional TDM.


I've also noticed a lot of hate directed towards the sawn-off. I myself prefer the sawn-off because of it's multi-kill potential, but I find gnasher users far more lethal. What do all of you prefer?

When I've asked a few sawn-off haters why they dislike it so much, all I've gotten are claims of it being the "noobish" weapon and that it requires "no skill". Whereas I've noticed that the sawn-off requires a heightened situational awareness and foresight since after the one shot, you're completely helpless. I agree with 'haters' that it is easy to camp a corner and can get a few 'cheap' kills (from those blindly rushing around corners), but the exact same applies to gnasher users, except they have a few more shots per reload and the spread is more focused.

I prefer the Gnasher. More ammo.

From what I've noticed playing Execution MP not many people use the sawn off because if you miss you're gone.

In any Gears 3 MP mode, if you see someone approaching you with the sawn off, roll back pick them off with an assault rifle.

[ScToTeE]

People who bitch about the sawed off are, more often than not, idiots who get burnt repeatedly by blindly charging around corners. The extreme reload time, the limited ammo and non-existent range are all (necessary) shortcomings that prevent it from being too noob-ish.

[Johnny360]

If anyone is up for some MP please add me:

SegaManAU

Cheers

[Starscream]

How can you kill any Beserkers in Horde Level 10 (20, 30, etc) without the Hammer of Dawn?

[Spazzola]

Fire.

Possibly Torque Bows.

[Starscream]

Fire.

Possibly Torque Bows.
Will try that next time. Speaking about Horde mode, are there any specific maps where you can use the Cleaver (i.e with Therons or Butchers) because I need to unlock the execution for it.
Cleaver kills in campaign mode don't count towards the execution count unlock. :(

[ScToTeE]

How can you kill any Beserkers in Horde Level 10 (20, 30, etc) without the Hammer of Dawn?

Yes. We just shot it in the head. A lot.

[Spazzola]

Going off of my Beast experience, every bullet does damage to a Berserker. It's just such a minuscule amount that often it's better to use heavier weapons.

As for multiplayer Cleaver, I'd say any horde map. I notice a large quantity in Checkout, though that may just be my spawn luck.

[Starscream]

As for multiplayer Cleaver, I'd say any horde map. I notice a large quantity in Checkout, though that may just be my spawn luck.

This.

Played Overpass and some Butchers with Therons showed up. Finally (!) unlocked the Cleaver execution.

Best executions (in no particular order): Arm rip and bash, Torque Bow, Cleaver, Scorcher and Digger.

[Starscream]

Ua5qh40x4KA

[Spazzola]

Next wave of DLC being RAAMed down our throats (http://epicgames.com/community/2011/10/gears-of-war-3-raam%E2%80%99s-shadow-game-add-on-coming-dec-13th/).

3gPV2wzNNyo

[Starscream]

That's the second item of the four discounted DLC, you get with the Season Pass.

Combined with the first DLC, the total non discounted price is 2000 MS points.

With the first two DLC asking such a high price, I think the next two DLC will be weapon skins or an avatar item! :p

But I still think the DLC is on Gears 3 disc. :(

[Spazzola]

DLC is live. (http://epicgames.com/community/2011/11/booster-pack-announced-dlc-1-drops-double-xp-and-alpha-playlist/)

1.42MB worth of download.

The link also has details on new versus maps (Bullet Marsh and Clocktower), an 'Alpha' playlist and a double XP event running from now to the 14th.

[Starscream]

DLC is live. (http://epicgames.com/community/2011/11/booster-pack-announced-dlc-1-drops-double-xp-and-alpha-playlist/)

1.42MB worth of download.

The link also has details on new versus maps (Bullet Marsh and Clocktower), an 'Alpha' playlist and a double XP event running from now to the 14th.

LOL. We all know where those DLC maps and extras are really are. ;) :rolleyes:

At least, MP Gearheads get the free maps on November 24....for MP only though. ;)

[Clockw0rk]

Shooting fuel tanks with a standard gun blows them up. Grenades blow them up. And yet the only way that Dom could see to blow up the fuel tank to save Marcus and co was to drive a f***ing truck into it? All because he missed his wife and was having an emo moment. What a selfish prick. I'm fine with them killing him because the story has has all the depth of a puddle but they could have picked a way to go that didn't make him look like a retard.

No spoilers because nobody gives a shit about the story.

[Starscream]

Gears plot: Kill enemies with a save the planet/humanity objective. Same plot over three games. Everything else is just filler material.

Just like you'd expect the Zelda series to change plot? :rolleyes:

On another note, I was able to play the two of the new maps (Rustlung and Blood Drive) on Horde. Without having to download the map packs or buying them with MS points! /shakes fist!

[tau]

Picked this up from JB tonight for $47 because... I don't know why. Hoping it doesn't suck.

[Spazzola]

Sometime today we get the chance to step into the oversized boots of the notorious General RAAM (http://epicgames.com/community/2011/12/biggest-game-add-on-in-gears-history-debuts-today/) and his cronies. Or Zeta squad if you're, y'know, all soft and squishy-like.

EObKGFNolXE

I'll probably load it up when I get back from town today. Hopefully it doesn't suck.

Edit: 2gb? Looks like I'll be waiting until offpeak.

[dimorphic]

It's stuck at 99% for me :(

[Starscream]

It's stuck at 99% for me :(

Epic posted on their facebook page that they were having download issues. They just recently posted that it has been fixed. I'd redownload if I were you.

Sometime today we get the chance to step into the oversized boots of the notorious General RAAM (http://epicgames.com/community/2011/12/biggest-game-add-on-in-gears-history-debuts-today/) and his cronies. Or Zeta squad if you're, y'know, all soft and squishy-like.

I'll probably load it up when I get back from town today. Hopefully it doesn't suck.

Edit: 2gb? Looks like I'll be waiting until offpeak.

That's a big size file for a content unlock on the retail disc. :D

Having watched the trailer it seems you alternate gameplay between Locust and the COG as the story progresses (unless it's two separate campaigns).

Season Pass still needs to go cheaper.

[dimorphic]

I've played a bit. I think the weapons sound a little weaker, not quite as meaty as the main campaign, but that might just be me.

I'll hit up more over the weekend, but it seems quite good. It is Gears after all so, at least from the COG perspective I know what to expect, but the story is intriguing. I like the whole E Day prequel thing.

[Spazzola]

Raam's Shadow. They named that right. In the whole act, two pissy sequences you get to don the big bug's boots. The rest of the act has you using the same old weapons against the same old foes who are using their same old weapons. The AI also proved to have shit the bed, declaring that the elite Maulers have reflective shields, then proceeded to fire at said shields.

Smart boys and girls. Smart.

Or when you get downed, one of them peels off to pick you back up and decides to run straight into an ink nade/swarm of krill.

Clearly the duces of C.O.G College.

Overall it's more or less Gears. I'll probably enjoy it more when I get togeather with a few friends and step into the various bodyguard roles. The story itself starts good, with some nice battles. But about half way through, it flattened out to "Oh, let's get Jace's father figure because they're survivors and...just cause." The ending is also...wanting.

As for the weapons, I thought they sounded and acted like they did in the campaign. The Retro charge is as satisfying as ever (though I miss my rainbow skin). The exception is of course Raam, who I found to be enjoyable to play as. Apart from the length of the DLC, my biggest disappointment by far was how little you played as Raam. That, to me, was the highlight of this DLC. Just like Beast mode, playing as the Locust is refreshing and satisfying. Though just like Beast mode, we're only given samplers.

If you don't have a season pass, I'd recommend waiting for it to pop up in a sale.

[Starscream]

As for the weapons, I thought they sounded and acted like they did in the campaign. The Retro charge is as satisfying as ever (though I miss my rainbow skin). The exception is of course Raam, who I found to be enjoyable to play as. Apart from the length of the DLC, my biggest disappointment by far was how little you played as Raam. That, to me, was the highlight of this DLC. Just like Beast mode, playing as the Locust is refreshing and satisfying. Though just like Beast mode, we're only given samplers.

If you don't have a season pass, I'd recommend waiting for it to pop up in a sale.

*shakes fist*

They really need to flesh out (extend) Beast mode. :(

EDIT: And make Raam, Skorge and Myrrah part of the Boss waves in Horde mode. :(

[dimorphic]

Raam is a multiplayer skin again I believe at least. Best Gears villain IMO.

[Spazzola]

Yep, Raam and the Black Theron for the Locust, Zeta team for the Gears. If you're an achievement hunter, you're looking at 10 matches as the Zeta chick and killing Minh 10 times as Raam (or killing him in 10 matches(all online)). Kinda sucky since I know next to no-one who actually likes Minh over the rest.

Agreed with horde, Starscream. Everytime I play with my friends, at least one of us bitches about that exact aspect. Myrrah should be wave 50, no exceptions.

[Starscream]

New DLC has been announced: Fenix rising.

- 5 MP maps
- 4 new MP characters to choose from
- Ability to "prestige" after getting rank 100 (up to three times). You get new weapons skins and emblems after each "prestige" you rank up.

Wow. :/ All for 800 MS points.


Kinda pissed off after getting level 2 on Silverback on Horde mode to find you can only get the rocket upgrade if you only buy the first DLC Horde Command pack.

*shakes fist at Epic*

[Starscream]

The Season Pass sees you pay up front for the coming DLC packs at 33% off the total amount you'd pay if you were buying each one individually as they come out. It basically is the All Fronts Collection.

So I bought the Gears 3 Season Pass. But having a read of the Season Pass description on the Marketplace...
.
Are you ready for even more Gears of War 3 content? The Gears 3 Season Pass is your ticket to brand new Campaign, Horde, Beast, and multiplayer content, including new playable characters. The Season Pass serves as your pre-order (at a 33% discount!) of four downloadable content packages that you will receive every quarter, starting in November. Season Pass purchasers also immediately receive the exclusive Liquid Metal animated weapon skin to show you’re ready for all the good things to come!

Does that mean we receive a total of 16 content packages over one year?

[Spazzola]

No. One each quarter, equalling a total of four. If only it was 16 :p

[Starscream]

No. One each quarter, equalling a total of four. If only it was 16 :p
They could have worded it better. Each quarter you will receive one downloadable content package.

Comparing the season pass to COD map packs, the Gears 3 season pass wins in terms of map packs and MS points.

After early January 2012, three DLC packages will be released. Is Epic's calendar messed up? I interpret one quarter as three months. Are they going to release Season 2 passes?

I just hope Epic don't rip off season pass owners with a skin collection as their last DLC package.