First-ever Xbox One S hardware bundle is made for Gears of War fanatics

By Danny Cowan July 14, 2016

microsoft reveals gears of war xbox one s hardware bundle xbogow4 header — Image used with permission by copyright holder

If you’re looking to drop some cash on Microsoft’s upgraded Xbox One S console when it launches in August, you may want to wait for an upcoming limited edition version that bundles in an early-access copy of Gears of War 4, among other exclusive bonuses.

Microsoft’s upcoming Gears of War 4-themed Xbox One S console bundle also includes a laser-etched limited edition console and a uniquely themed controller, giving Gears of War fanatics incentive to invest in the hardware upgrade.

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Launching in September at a retail price of $450, the Gears of War 4 Xbox One S hardware bundle includes an Xbox One S 2TB Console, a vertical stand, an Xbox One controller, and a digital code that grants early access to Gears of War 4 prior to its retail release on October 7.

The console itself sports a blood-red color scheme and claw-like etchings across its exterior. The included controller follows suit with similar coloring and branding, setting itself apart from previously issued Xbox One controllers with a distinct red D-pad and a Gears of War series logo.

Additional digital bonuses bundled with the package include codes for Gears of War 4 weapon skins, character outfits, multiplayer lobby emblems, and “Gear” packs that award players randomly distributed in-game items.

Aesthetics and bonuses aside, the package is otherwise equivalent to Microsoft’s standalone Xbox One S 2TB console, which launches on August 31. Compared to first-generation Xbox One hardware, the Xbox One S is 40 percent smaller in size and supports 4K video resolutions for Blu-rays as well as the console’s Netflix and Amazon Video apps.

Microsoft additionally revealed that two different Gears of War 4-themed Xbox One controllers will be sold exclusively via GameStop and the Microsoft Store for $75 each starting in September. Featuring redesigned grips and Bluetooth pairing functionality, each controller will include codes for extra Gears of War 4 lobby emblems and Gear packs.

Microsoft will open pre-orders for its Gears of War 4-themed Xbox One consoles and controllers ahead of a planned mid-September launch.

Pre-order Gears of War 4 on Amazon

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