Gears of War: Reloaded Won't Launch on PS5 in Japan Due to Rating Restrictions

Gears of War: Reloaded Faces Regional Rating Challenges in Japan

Fans of the iconic third-person shooter franchise, Gears of War, will encounter a significant limitation in Japan. Microsoft has confirmed that Gears of War: Reloaded will not launch on PlayStation 5 in the Japanese market, due to strict regional age rating policies and platform regulations.

Availability Limited to Xbox, PC, and Streaming Services

According to the official Xbox Wire Japan announcement, Japanese players will only be able to experience Gears of War: Reloaded on Xbox Series X|S consoles, PC, Game Pass, and Steam. The decision comes after the title reportedly failed to secure a CERO rating—Japan's video game content certification—due to intense violence, gore, and graphic scenes depicted in the gameplay. This means that PlayStation 5 gamers in Japan will miss out on the highly anticipated title, while international players on Sony's platform remain unaffected.
 

Release Date, Multiplayer Beta, and Access Methods

Gears of War: Reloaded is slated for global release on August 27. Ahead of its launch, players will have the opportunity to try out the game's multiplayer features through a two-week open beta starting June 13. Access to this beta will be granted through three main paths: pre-purchasing the digital edition for Xbox Series X|S, PC, Steam, or PlayStation 5; maintaining an active Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass subscription; or owning a digital copy of Gears of War: Ultimate Edition.
During the first beta weekend (June 13–15), participants can enjoy the classic Team Deathmatch mode across three iconic maps: Gridlock, Raven Down, and Gold Rush. The second weekend (June 20–22) invites players to conquer King of the Hill on the Canals map, with Courtyard and War Machine joining the Team Deathmatch rotation.

Franchise Updates and Market Potential

The Gears of War franchise continues to make headlines, as Phil Spencer recently hinted at the release date for Gears of War: E-Day during the latest Xbox Showcase. Additionally, talks are underway with the director of The Fall Guy regarding a cinematic adaptation of the series. These strategic moves suggest continued momentum and relevance for Gears of War in the fast-paced gaming industry.
Despite the setback on PlayStation 5 in Japan, Gears of War: Reloaded is positioned as a must-play experience, offering cutting-edge graphics, intense multiplayer battles, and a chance to revisit one of gaming's most beloved franchises.