The first thing about the series that must be understood is that the first game can be difficult to follow, since the plot is not directly stated. This can be jarring, since players are immediately thrown into the action and then bounced from location to location. Towards the end of the first game, however, the story becomes more apparent. The effect this has on the story is that there are several instances where it seems like the characters are in random locations, without any real reason for being there.

The second game has a similar problem, but not nearly to the extent of the first. The locations in the beginning of the game do seem out of place however, since much of the traveling is done off screen. Though later on, most of Gears of War 2 and most of Gears of War 3 do not have this issue, as the characters travel on a fairly consistent path throughout the game.

A major difference from the first game to the second is that where the first game only has the Gears' cogs as collectibles, the second game includes additional items that offer insight to the story (Both of these games offer achievements for collecting all of them). The third game mixes both of the items, but has separate achievements for each.

One of the best features of this series is that the game-play is almost identical in each game. The only noticeable changes are as follows: in the first game, running is limited, (where as the second and third games, this is unlimited), the ability to attach grenades to enemies in the second game (which is also included in the third) and in the third game, players must hold the “X” button to pick up items. This helps players jump into each game, without having to relearn controls. (Having played all three games back-to-back this was especially nice and felt very fluid.)

Another bonus to this series is that each game builds upon the previous installation. Many of the enemies are the same, but both sequels add new variations and weaponry and environments in which to fight them. As players process through the story, they are introduced to new areas, but previous places are discussed. There are several conversations that are referenced by actions in the later games. This helps bring a sense of connectedness to the series that greatly accents that flow of the games.

Overall, this series is amazing. The story, although a bit lacking at first, is quite compelling and Epic Games did an amazing job creating an active, lively universe. The ability to play each of the games back-to-back, without have to learn new controls. The consistent game-play and mechanics help players feel like they are playing one large story, instead of three chapters in that story. If players have not already played these games, now would be a perfect time to pick up the series.

 - DJ Creepiz

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