Gears 2 'All Fronts Collection' announced, tons of content

9:17 AM on 05.06.2009   |   Brad Nicholson

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Whoa. On July 28, Epic Games is dropping ten s--tloads worth of Gears of War 2 downloadable content into one cute retail package. "The Gears of War 2: All Fronts Collection" will have all the previous DLC for the game -- "Snowblind," "Combustible," and "Flashback" -- as well as seven new multiplayer maps, a “deleted” campaign chapter called Road to Ruin, a premium theme, an introductory video, a poster, AND a strategy guide. Like we said, ten s--tloads.

Road to Ruin -- perhaps the most intriguing since Epic has yet to touch the campaign with DLC -- will have the COG funky bunch (Dom and Marcus) returning to the Locust Hollow. Apparently, this once cut campaign mission will feature some sort of stealth mode, but the option to chainsaw, curse, and shoot your way through the new level is still viable. As you can see from the image above, it appears as though Marcus is dressed as a Theron. Costume swapping is always a plus.

Of course, if you still get your kicks from multiplayer, the seven new maps should make you a happy man. You can view a breakdown of the "Dark Corners" map pack from the press release after the break. (It will be available for download on July 28, when this retail package hits.)

The best part about the “All Fronts Collection” is its price: $19.99. Sorta makes you want to get back into the game, right? Aw, c’mon!

Allfathers Garden: Honor the sacred grounds of the Coalition founders in this explosive map, where powerful weapons catalyze fast and furious action at this COG landmark.

Memorial: Set near the Eternal Flame, which pays tribute to the fallen soldiers on the battlefield, a hard-fought battle ensues at the Tomb of Unknowns. Putting their flank formation and evasive skills to the test, players will fight to control the Boomshot.

Sanctuary: Once a peaceful ground for reflection and remembrance, all that remains of the Sanctuary is the chill of death. Feast your eyes on the arsenal of weapons available as you make your way through the tight paths and blind corners of the Locust-damaged temple corridors.

War Machine: In the abandoned train station that once served as a hub for travel, players will need to master the Longshot, Mulcher and Boomshot weapons to advance the fight while evading fire from the platforms above.

Highway: Take the fight deep into the Locust Hollow in the complex passages of this underground highway system brimming with enemy vermin. Stick together, separate the enemy and have an exit strategy ready or it’ll be a one-way trip.

Way Station:  Sitting in limbo between death and “processing” are Locust way stations filled with fallen COG soldiers. Tread lightly and practice patience as it’s better to sacrifice firepower for stealth while navigating this minefield of hidden grenades.

Nowhere: Set in the middle of what was once a destination for weary desert travellers, the land is now barren and devoid of life. Pick off your enemies with the Longshot sniper rifle and make your way to the stairwell with a well-fortified team during this intense firefight.