Obviously the release of one of the biggest and most influential franchises of this console generation carries with it the usual sensations of frenzied, rabid anticipation, but this time, it also brought about a touch of sadness. Frowny face. Here’s why: As the Gears of War 3 trailers continue to point out, this is the end. Sure we can keep playing multiplayer, and Epic has already hinted about other games within the Gears universe, but for our time with Delta Squad and their story, this is it. As games continue to evolve as a narrative-driven medium and developers aim to tell finite stories rather than just milk franchises, gamers are finally getting to have those same bittersweet moments that come from seeing something they love, and have spent years with, come to an end. Just like when Harry Potter fans turned the last page of Deathly Hallows, or when Lost fans saw the credits roll on the last episode.
When you consider the upcoming release schedule is when you notice that gamers are about to have this happen to them repeatedly in the coming months. Assassin’s Creed: Revelations is meant to close out our time with Ezio and answer some questions. Mass Effect 3 will be our last planet-hopping trip with Commander Shepard. We’ve all put in the time, and we will hopefully get the finales that are worthy of our years spent playing.
Gears of War 3 chainsaws its way onto shelves this Tuesday. Have tissues handy.
Comic by Zac Landry.
