Gears of War 4 Xbox One X Enhanced Preview

Gears of War 4 is probably the benchmark for the Xbox One X, it provides the perfect example of what Xbox is moving towards and it executes everything perfectly. I say this is the best example as the game is Xbox Play Anywhere; it's got gorgeous graphics with multiple options, tons of updates making it more long term service like and of course shines with HDR. Aside from getting incredible support, the game received a free set of twenty four multiplayer maps since launch and it feels like a complete experience. This is all pushed to the max with improved assets, draw distance and so many smaller tweaks.

The game is stunning whether you're gnashing in multiplayer or shooting through the next story of the series. In the game you also get visual options, you can run campaign and Horde at 1080p 60fps improved or 4k 30fps improved. It's a choice of resolution against frame rate and I like the pop in colors for 4k. The multiplayer already runs at 60fps so there's no need to hold back for that mode, it just shines on Xbox One X. The HDR is incredible for the game featuring what was noted as God Rays and that light is amazing. It really adds just this special little layer of lighting and having not experienced it prior, this was magical.

Since this was the first available and one of my current favorites, it was easy to work on playing Gears of War 4 Xbox One X Enhanced. It was almost too much of a pleasure to dive back into the game for more gameplay as though I had even left it in the first place. The game looks amazing whether you're working through the charming campaign or playing online. During my time with the game they had a special Pumpkin mode for Halloween. This mode brought pumpkin heads really driving home the fear with glowing faces and it was great. Regular play in Escalation provided a great look at certain levels and you can really see the smaller details coming through.

The textures are solid throughout the levels, the lighting really improves the experience and it feels like a fresh game when you go to play it in 4k. It all runs solid whether you choose any of the options and the Xbox One X really nails the presentation here. Players wanting to get into the game with an almost brand new look will be blown away whether they're new or returning. If you want the best example of just what the Xbox One X is capable of, it's Gears of War 4 running at a true native 4k resolution. The Coalition really set the bar here and I can't wait to see Gears of War 5 as I only imagine they'll continue to push boundaries and the technology.

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