Gears of War 3 Academy Map Trailer

The amount of content available in Gears of War 3's online multiplayer just keeps growing, and this month's Fenix Rising DLC package is adding even more. As one of the 5 new maps being added, 'Academy' offers some environments that will be both new and nostalgic for fans of the series, and a fairly sizable arena for some vintage Gears of War 3 action.

We've already gotten several looks at details and screenshots of Fenix Rising, but nothing can compare to a real-time look at the courtyards and architecture that will soon be smeared with blood and guts. The new DLC package has been garnering attention for providing players the chance to Re-Up and start their multiplayer progression over again, but if you're content with your current status then it's worth your while to scope out the new map.

While the previous DLC pack offered some new and remastered maps from the past, 'Academy' is a completely new creation. Built as the training facility that turned Sera's best and brightest young men and women into the officers of the COG military, the Oracle Academy has since fallen into the hands of the Locust.

Have a look at the map and see how well the open courtyards will suit your own 'training exercises,' courtesy of IGN:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=68OOIn0sB0k

You have to hand it to Epic Games, since every new map seems to offer a refreshing twist on what is undeniably a proven Gears formula. The large and sunbathed expanses of Academy will immediately remind players of past environments like 'Mausoleum,' or even elements of the Fenix Estate. But even from this brief fly-through, it's easy to see how both scopes and sawed-offs can be put to use in the various archways and raised platforms.

We're still reeling from impressive release of the Raam's Shadow DLC, which is just the latest addition to what turned out to be our best shooter of 2011. 'Academy' is just one of 5 new maps coming later this month, so subscribers to Epic's DLC Season Pass are already looking to get some serious content for their investment.

What do you think of this video of 'Academy'? Does it look to be worth the purchase price, or do you wish the developers would spend their time creating more singleplayer expansions?

The Fenix Rising DLC for Gears of War 3 will be available January 17, 2012, for 800 Microsoft Points.

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Source: IGN