Gears of War Ultimate Edition Launch Trailer Brings Back "Mad World"

Microsoft has released the launch trailer for the upcoming Gears of War: Ultimate Edition. The video uses the song "Mad World," which fans will no doubt recall was used for the 2006 original game's launch trailer, too. Microsoft today called that trailer "one of the most iconic and recognized trailers in gaming."

The Ultimate Edition's launch trailer aims to may tribute to the original. It's a moving video, beginning with CG footage from the 2006 game, before shifting to in-game footage from the Ultimate Edition. It's meant to pay homage to the first game, while also showing how far it's come--and it does a good job of doing that.

It also makes me want to watch Donnie Darko again.

The Ultimate Edition launches on August 25 for $40.

It's a "completely remastered" version of the original, featuring 1080p graphics and 60fps for multiplayer. Buying the game gets you access to an upcoming Gears of War 4 beta, as well as free copies of backwards-compatible versions of Gears of War 1, 2, 3, and Judgement.

For lots more on the Ultimate Edition, be sure to read GameSpot's interview feature with The Coalition producer Rod Fergusson.