Gears of War 4 has finally been given a global release date with the game launching worldwide for Xbox One on October 11th, Microsoft has announced. Gears of War 4 was first announced last year at E3 2015.

Gears of War 4 will be the first game in the series not developed by Epic Games who created and brought us the previous Gears of War games. Instead it will be developed by The Coalition who were formed by Microsoft after the company purchased the rights to the franchise back in 2014. The game will feature new characters, including Marcus Fenix’s son, JD Fenix as they confront a fearsome new threat.

Ahead of the game’s release in October, there will also be a multiplayer beta available on Xbox One for anyone who has purchased and played Gears of War: Ultimate Edition on Xbox One or Windows 10. An open beta will be available on April 25 for all Xbox Live Gold Members. The beta will run until May 1.

“Gears of War 4 marks the beginning of an epic new saga for one of gaming’s most celebrated franchises, as a new band of heroes rises to confront a fearsome new threat”, said Adam Fletcher, Director of Community at The Coalition.

“Harkening back to the dark and intense roots of the original classic, fans can expect a familiar, yet distinct evolution of gameplay, including brutal and intimate action, a heart-pounding campaign, genre-defining multiplayer and stunning visuals powered by Unreal Engine 4.”