Where in the process it set new records for Xbox Game Pass, with the biggest launch week to date for an Xbox Game Studios first-party release. According to the report by Microsoft which doesn't provide exact numbers, Gears 5's retail and subscription release across PC and Xbox One make it the most-played first-party title since Halo 4 in 2012.

An impressive milestone, and a good indicator that the Xbox Game Pass service is currently offering incredible value for players - especially with free trials and startup deals offering access for as little as $1 a month. On PC, with Gears 5 playable across Xbox Game Pass and Steam - it broke records for Xbox Game Studios across all platforms or 'ways to play'.

Previous to Gears 5, Forza Horizon 4 saw similar success when it debuted as part of Game Pass alongside retail - a move that will no doubt see first-party titles reach wider audiences in the years to come. Gears 5 continues the series tradition of offering explosive cinematic action, and looks incredible no matter the platform you play it on. For more on that be sure to check out our recent interview with The Coalition - where we discuss its technical achievements.