It's become somewhat of a tradition that every major video game release is accompanied by a "season pass" upon its launch. These season passes provide avid followers of each respective title with future downloadable content, as well as a discounted price, and they're traditionally comprised of new multiplayer maps or missions. That's why it comes as no surprise to hear that Epic Games plans on offering consumers a similar package for its upcoming blockbuster Gears of War: Judgment.

Epic confirmed its plans to offer gamers a season pass for Gears of War: Judgment earlier today, and it'll consist of a majority of the same things that others have in the past (i.e. discounted content, multiplayer maps), but it'll also provide players with several other noteworthy features. As some keen readers may have noticed in the header, this bundle is called the "VIP Season Pass," and its contents will make diehard, competitive Gears fans want to invest — not that they probably wouldn't have anyway.

Gears of War: Judgment's VIP Season Pass will consist of the following:

  • Two DLC packs (six multiplayer maps, two new modes, and new weapon/armor skins)
  • Early access to the new multiplayer maps
  • A double XP boost that will function for an eternity
  • Five exclusive weapon skins and four exclusive armor skins

Anyone who plans on purchasing future content for Gears of War: Judgment can save 20% by picking up the newly announced season pass, and the additional benefits of doing so speak for itself. Excited fans awaiting the arrival of the latest Gears of War (and all of the game's subsequent content) will be able to grab the season pass for 1,600 Microsoft Points ($20).

The official confirmation of yet another DLC pass should come as no surprise to those familiar with the gaming industry, and it does provide frequent users with fresh content post-launch that extends the shelf life of a video game. Even games like BioShock Infinite are getting behind the Costco-themed decision to make downloadable add-ons available in bulk and at a cheaper price.

That said, at least Epic Games is trying something a little different this time around by offering early access to content and a permanent double XP boost. Let's just hope that other developers take the same initiative and offer similar deals going forward — it can't be that much more of a burden on the developer to offer those bonuses, after all.

Gears of War: Judgment will saw its way onto store shelves this March 19th, exclusively on Xbox 360.

-

You can follow Riley on Twitter @TheRileyLittle.