Gears of War: E-Day – Marcus Fenix returns to the origins of the apocalypse
The prequel recaptures the strength of the bond between Marcus and Dom and the brutality of the clashes with the Locusts. The campaign is compelling, despite a few compromises to the established formula
Marcus Fenix is the most beloved stocky yet agile marine in the history of video games. As delicate as a fridge hurled down a flight of stairs, he strikes terror into the hearts of his enemies; he dodges bullets like a dragonfly, darting from wall to wall, and slaughters alien monsters as if there were no tomorrow. But beneath the armour lies a man, and that is where Gears of War: E-Day – released on 6 October for PC, Xbox and Xbox Game Pass – finds its raison d’être. Going back fourteen years before the first instalment, alongside Dom on Emergence Day, allows us to witness the first time he felt fear. The first and only time. For those who love these characters, it’s a draw stronger than any graphical promise. Not to mention the long-time fans of the Gears series who’ve been waiting years to go back to slaughtering Locusts.
The campaign is extensive and well-crafted: it alternates between urban exploration and scripted battles, whilst giving scope to the relationship between the protagonists. The combat retains cover mechanics and distinctive weapons: the brutality works because it dictates the pace and forces choices, as well as filling the screen with blood.
The main reservations concern the gameplay. Sliding and climbing over obstacles expand the possibilities, but some of the physicality of *Gears* is lost. The lack of variety in side activities and the predictable enemies also dampen the tension. Other criticisms include some visual compromises on the Xbox and synchronisation issues with the Italian dubbing. But the return is particularly compelling because of the perspective: watching Marcus as his world crumbles. As a fan, that’s the reason to stand by his side once more.
