Gears 5 is here and with it comes a brand new co-op mode called Escape. Don't fret - returning is Horde and of course campaign co-op. Below we dive into all the technical details of what makes co-op, co-op in Gears 5. Let us know if you have any additional questions and we'll update the FAQ.
- How many players can play Gears 5 locally (couch co-op)?
- How many players can play Gears 5 via system link or LAN?
- How many players can play Gears 5 online?
- How many players are supported in combo co-op?
- What direction is the screen split in couch co-op for Gears 5?
- Does the PC version of Gears 5 support split screen play?
- How do you begin a co-op session in Gears 5?
- How does save game progress work for co-op play in Gears 5?
- Can I join a game if the host is further along than me in Gears 5?
- What are the co-op modes in Gears 5?
- What co-op accessibility options are there?
- What exactly can I do as Jack, the flying robot in co-op for Gears 5?
How many players can play Gears 5 locally (couch co-op)?
Local co-op is only available in the campaign and three players can play together. One player will take the role of the flying robot Jack (a helper style player) and limited to assisting the other two campaign players.
How many players can play Gears 5 via system link or LAN?
Gears 5 doesn't support LAN play, a connection to Xbox Live is required.
How many players can play Gears 5 online?
The Campaign and Escape modes support up to 3 players online, while the "Co-Op vs A.I." mode in Versus and the Horde mode support up to 5 players online.
How many players are supported in combo co-op?
Gears 5 supports combo co-op (i.e., couch co-op players teaming up with another player online) in the campaign only. Three players max are supported for this.
What direction is the screen split in couch co-op for Gears 5?
Horizontally - top/bottom. When playing with a 3rd player the screen at the bottom will split between player 2 and 3.
Does the PC version of Gears 5 support split screen play?
Yes, in campaign only!
How do you begin a co-op session in Gears 5?
Choose any of the game modes to get into a "lobby" - if starting a local session just hit start (or F9 on the keyboard) on the controller you want to join with. Online sessions allow you to invite friends.
How does save game progress work for co-op play in Gears 5?
Host player gets progress, though guests will retain whatever collectibles they find in campaign. Horde mode all players earn experience.
Can I join a game if the host is further along than me in Gears 5?
Yes.
What are the co-op modes in Gears 5?
Gears 5 features four different co-op options:
- Campaign Co-Op (3 players max) - team up locally or online with friends to play through the entirety of the campaign. Combo co-op (i.e., couch co-op players teaming up with another player online) is supported for this.
- Escape (3 players max - ONLINE ONLY) - a new co-op mode for the Gears franchise, play with two other buddies online to plant a bomb in a Hive and then make your escape. Each player chooses one of three characters to play, each of whom has their own special ability to help the team.
- Horde (5 players max - ONLINE ONLY) - the familiar Gears co-op mode returns with many of the same systems in Gears 4, and the introduction of new player abilities. Build defenses, collect power, level up your skills, and work as a team to survive.
- Co-Op vs. A.I. in Versus (5 players max - ONLINE ONLY) - join other players to take on a team of A.I. bots in this variation of the Gears team deathmatch mode.
What co-op accessibility options are there?
Each player can set their own difficulty level when joining a game, with Gears 5 automatically scaling enemies health and damage to each individual player.
What exactly can I do as Jack, the flying robot in co-op for Gears 5?
As the robot player, you can support other players by gathering weapons, opening secret chests and areas, and deploying a myriad of gadgets like shock mines to slow enemies progress. On top of that it's easy as Jack to survey the battlefield and communicate enemy positions as well as stun enemies behind cover to expose them for your squad.