Gears of War 2: Dark Corners DLC

Microsoft and Epic Games have announced a massive upcoming add-on for Gears of War 2 that will contain new multiplayer maps as well as a brand new campaign mission. All of the content will be made available both at retail as a code for a download and through Xbox Live separately.

The new campaign level is a deleted chapter titled Road to Ruin. In it, Marcus and Dom will return to Locust Hollow for a mission that can be played in the traditional, action-packed way or in what is described as an "all-new stealth mode."

The add-on will include seven new multiplayer maps. Here are their official descriptions, as provided by Microsoft:

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.

The retail release is titled Gears of War 2: All Fronts Collection and will contain all previously released Gears of War 2 add-ons as well as the seven new maps and campaign chapter. It will have a price of $19.99 in the US (or ?14.99/€19.99 in Europe) and will be released July 28.

If you already have purchased and downloaded the previous map packs and don't want to double up, the new content will be available separately as its own download. It will carry the title Gears of War 2: Dark Corners and have a price of 1600 Microsoft points (US $19.99).

-IGN