Microsoft Confirms Premium Gears Content News

Although multiplayer was never a focus for the team, Epic's Gears of War still sits atop the Xbox Live Most Played lists (with the exception of a certain Bungie shooter), so confirmation of the latest multiplayer map pack will keep Gears' fans happy during the barren summer months.

As of 9:00 (GMT) on May 3rd, Microsoft will release the "Hidden Fronts" multiplayer map-pack. Consisting of four maps, this time around it seems as Microsoft have emerged victorious over Epic's prior stance on downloads being made available for free, so you'll have to open your Microsoft Wallet and fork out 800 Microsoft Points (£6.80) for the privilege. In the past, Epic have dismissed the notion of charging for the extra content, but stated that premium packs would appear for free from September 3rd 2007 - precisely four months later.

Bullet Marsh: In this Kryll-infested swamp, an old generator still powers the area lights. A few stray bullets could easily knock out the generator, leaving combatants to fend for themselves against the Kryll.

Garden: This overgrown and crumbling conservatory still has a working fertilization and pesticide system. This system can pose a serious hazard to anyone who ventures into the greenhouse without first venting the air.

Process: Teams must fight for control of this subterranean Imulsion processing plant, still active despite the cessation of the Pendulum wars.

Subway: Timgads Central Subway station used to serve as a central hub for commuters. Now the tunnels are crawling with Locust.