Gears 3 gets Fenix Rising map pack, new level progression system on January 17

Microsoft's announced the Fenix Rising map pack for Gears of War 3, with a new level progression system also being introduced alongside its release.

The pack will come with five new maps: Academy, Anvil, Depths, Escalation and The Slab.

New character skins will be included for both COG and Locust, with Recruit Clayton and Thrashball Cole for the COGs. Locusts will get Savage Marauder and Savage Kantus.

The pack will launch on January 17 for 800 MS points or as part of the Gears of War 3 season pass.

Gears 3's new progression system will enable hardcore players of up to Level 100 who've purchased Fenix Rising will be able to what Microsoft calls "Re-Up" at least three times, earning three new colours in the process: red, green and gold.

Those who do Re-Up will have their stats wiped, a la Call of Duty's Prestige Mode, but will be able to earn weapon bonuses obtainable by Re-Upping, such as Plasma, Omen and Electric.

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