Gamers who want it will have to get the Ultimate Edition

Apr 26, 2016 20:21 GMT  ·  By

Video game developer The Coalition and publisher Microsoft are announcing that gamers who want to pick up the new Gears of War 4 can now pre-order both the standard version of the game and a special Ultimate Edition of the upcoming third-person shooter.

Those who are willing to pay for the title before it is out will be able to get access to the Vintage Del Gear Pack, which will include a unique character mode, an emblem, two vintage weapon skins inspired by the past of the series, and the special Vintage Del bounty as a bonus.

The two versions of Gears of War 4 are offered, according to the Xbox Wire, both at participating retailers and on the official Xbox Store.

The Ultimate Edition also comes complete with the Season Pass for the video game, which is priced at 49.99 dollars or Euro and grants access to the vintage DJ skin and two exclusive weapons looks, as well as permanent access to 24 new maps that will be introduced after launch via downloadable content packs for the shooter.

Gamers also get access to a developer playlist that ensures access to new maps, modes, and features for Gears of War 4 that can be experienced before the full release of the six Gear Packs for the title, and that include boosts, equipment, weapons skins and emblems.

A steel book is also featured in the Ultimate Edition that is now up for pre-order.

Microsoft is also confirming early access for Gears of War 4 starts on October 7

Those who are willing to pay the premium associated with the more expensive edition of the video game will be able to get into the action on Friday, October 7, of this year, four days earlier than those who pick up the Standard version.

The early access period was rumored a few days ago, and the fact that it is linked with a higher price point will certainly cause controversy among fans of the series and might start a trend among publishers.

The upcoming cover shooter will introduce a new story centered around JD Fenix, son of Marcus, who is investigating a new threat to Sera along with his companions, operating outside of the bounds set by the government.

The Coalition is currently also running a beta test for the title, which allows those taking part to experience the core mechanics and to test the infrastructure that will power it.

Gears of War 4 will be offered only on the Xbox One from Microsoft.