“Gears Of War 4” Will Have Microtransactions
Free Online Maps and Paid Cosmetics
In an interview with GameSpot, The Coalition studio head Rod Fergusson stated that "Gears of War 4" will have microtransactions, which will include cards to be turned into cosmetics.
I feel like that paradigm of cards is really clear to understand for collectibles, like the ability to collect things. We had weapon skins and character skins, so that idea of collecting cards is just easily understood. It felt like it added some engagement in terms of its not the, "Oh, I like Tiger Stripe. I bought Tiger Stripe. I'm done. I don't need to engage with that system anymore. There's no need for me to hang around."
I like the idea of why you buy Magic: The Gathering booster pack. If I could just buy the one card I want then I'm out, then you lose it, right? Rod Fergusson
Fergusson described the process something like the cards in "Hearthstone." He also noted that playing enough of the game (presumably through multiplayer) will get you credits to get crates.
I think that's the same thing we're trying to do here. The notion that everything is earnable just through play means the only reason you would ever use real money is when you want to accelerate it. We're going to be balanced where you're going to be constantly getting crates, or enough credits to get crates through the game, so it really is just about your choice.
"Gears of War 4" comes out on Xbox One on October 11, 2016. The beta will release on April 18 for those who bought "Gears of War Ultimate Edition," with the open beta coming out on April 25.
Source: Gamespot
Gears of War 4
Release: 10/10/2016 [NA]TBA
ESRB Rating: Mature 17+
Publisher: Microsoft Studios
Purchase: Amazon