Blast your enemies with snowballs in the 'Gears of War 4' Christmas event

By Gabe Gurwin December 19, 2016

Gearsmas in Gears of War 4 is here!

Overwatch might be leading the way with its holiday event’s legendary skins and Christmas-themed maps, but Gears of War 4 looks to be giving the game a run for its money when it comes to the Christmas spirit. Right now, you can check out Gears of War 4‘s special “Gearsmas” event, offering hideous new weapon skins, a new mode, and even a secret Easter egg.

Gears of War 4’s special “Gearsmas Packs,” available until the event ends on January 4, will net you a collection of ugly characters and weapon skins. “Ugly Gearsmas” armor will be available for JD Fenix, Kait, and the Swarm Drone, though it should make you a more visible target. Gingerbread, “Festive Tree,” snowman, and wrapping paper skins are also available for the game’s weapons, as well as a special Gearsmas emblem. Each pack will set you back 400 credits and contains two items and one “bounty,” which offers a reward for completing specific challenges.

The Gearsmas event will also give all players a bonus item, provided that they’re playing regularly. Log onto Gears of War 4 on January 27 to collect the special “Ice Boomshot” weapon skin. A “Chuzzmas” emblem was previously offered on December 16.

But perhaps most exciting is the introduction of a brand new mode: “Snowball Fight.” It’s exactly what it sounds like: a take on classic team deathmatch, but with all weapons replaced by the special “Snowshot” and two snowballs to fire. Unlike Mei’s similar snowball fight event in Overwatch, the snowballs here will turn enemies to tiny, fleshy “gibs” in traditionally over-the-top Gears of War fashion.

During Gearsmas, developer The Coalition is also re-introducing Windows 10-Xbox One cross-play support for competitive multiplayer, giving you a chance to play with your friends regardless of which system you own. Be sure to ask around to learn who received the game as a gift this holiday season!

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Gabe Gurwin has been playing games since 1997, beginning with the N64 and the Super Nintendo. He began his journalism career…

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