Brutal action, addictive multiplayer, shredded bodies and stunning visuals. Developers from The Coalition showed that they belong among the leaders in this field. The fourth part of Gears of War can only be recommended. [Issue #268]

Even with a new studio leading the development charge, Gears of War 4 is a return to form for the series, and is continual delight, even if it does unnecessarily cling for dear life to the past.

Gears of War 4 is a triumphant return to form for the series. What’s more, it proves that the franchise is more than safe in the hands of The Coalition. A visual spectacle that dials back some of the macho ridiculousness of the original trilogy whilst refining and expanding the gameplay, it’s genuinely a game to own an Xbox One for.

Gears of War 4 is not a breakthrough for the franchise, but it underlines a successful transition from Epic Games to The Coalition. We would have loved more risk-taking, but overall it's still a great game.

Gears Of War 4 is a success, then, even if it does take The Coalition a little too long to find its feet in its single-player campaign.

Gears of War 4 as a whole looks interesting and it's definitely a pleasure to once again become an armed warrior and jump from cover to cover. The game may not impress in terms of graphics, and the universe is not as captivating as it used to be, but it's still good, demanding "Gears" - and that's crucial.

The game's successes as a continuation of Gears of War's narrative falter in the face of stubbornly archaic gameplay.