Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteGears 5: Hivebusters is a well-liked, tightly paced story expansion built around polished combat, striking volcanic scenery and a closer look at Scorpio Squad. Its main drawback is the time commitment: Xbox estimates a three-hour campaign. It is best suited to players who already have Gears 5 and want a concise, cinematic addition rather than a full-length campaign.
What is Gears 5: Hivebusters?
Hivebusters is story DLC for Gears 5, developed by The Coalition and published by Xbox Game Studios. You play as Lahni, Keegan and Mac—Scorpio Squad—as they undertake a mission to destroy a Swarm hive on the volcanic Galangi islands. The Xbox product listing describes a three-hour campaign, playable solo or in co-op with up to three players, and requires the base game. It is listed for Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S and PC.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Gears 5: Standard Edition – Xbox One | $16.97 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Gears 5 | $16.96 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
JEU Console Microsoft Gears 5 - Xbox ONE | $44.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Gears of War 4 - Xbox One | $59.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
Gears of War 3 (Renewed) | Buy on Amazon |
What do reviews say?
Critics generally responded favorably. Metacritic’s page, accessed in 2026, reports an 82 Metascore from 13 critic reviews, labeled “Generally Favorable.” Its separate user score is 7.6 from 153 ratings. These are distinct aggregates, and both can change as reviews and ratings are added.
Action, presentation and pacing
Reviews commonly highlight the expansion’s visual presentation, set pieces and brisk momentum. Windows Central praised its visuals, pacing and character moments, while Pure Xbox singled out the volcanic setting and presentation. The tighter structure makes Hivebusters feel focused rather than sprawling.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- From one of the most acclaimed game franchises in history, Gears 5 delivers an epic campaign and brutal action across five thrilling modes
- Campaign: With all out war descending, Kait Diaz breaks away to uncover her connection to the enemy and discovers the true danger to Sera herself
- Escape: A new, aggressive, high stakes co op mode featuring a three player suicide squad that must work together to take out enemy hives from within
- Versus: May the best team win with 10+ other game types plus new and classic maps. Versus rewards every competitive style, from casual to pro
- Horde: Endure 50 waves of ever tougher enemies using new hero abilities, building defenses, collecting power, leveling up your skills and working as a team
A more linear story campaign
That focus comes with less room to roam than the open sections of Gears 5. Pure Xbox found the connecting narrative loose and the level design more linear; Windows Central also noted that the squad members do not receive equally developed character arcs. Screen Rant was more critical, arguing that the characters’ origins get too little attention and that parts of the expansion feel promotional. That dissent is worth considering, though it is not the overall critical consensus.
How long is it, and is it worth the price?
Xbox’s current product listing estimates about three hours for the campaign. That is an official estimate, not a measured average completion time. The short length is the clearest value concern: Windows Central considered the launch price steep for a single short playthrough. The Xbox US listing currently shows $19.99, but prices may vary by region or change during sales.
Rank #2
At that length, the expansion makes the most sense if you want a compact story campaign, enjoy Gears 5’s combat, or plan to play with friends. If you are looking for a long campaign or extensive exploration, its price-to-length proposition is harder to justify.
Can you play it alone or in co-op?
The Xbox listing supports solo play and co-op for up to three players, matching the three members of Scorpio Squad. That gives the short campaign a straightforward option for either a solo run or a group session.
Rank #3
- GAMING CONSOLE
Do you need Gears 5, and is it on Game Pass?
You need the base game: Hivebusters is an expansion, not a standalone release. Xbox announced the DLC’s release for December 15, 2020, and said at launch that it would be sold separately for $19.99 and included with Game Pass Ultimate. Those were launch-era terms, not confirmation of current subscription access. Check the current Xbox or PC storefront for your region before downloading or buying.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Verdict
Gears 5: Hivebusters delivers a polished, visually memorable burst of Gears action, and critics generally liked its pace and presentation. Its concise campaign and more linear design limit the value for players expecting a full-sized sequel. If you already have Gears 5 and want a focused side story—especially one to play cooperatively—it is an appealing addition; otherwise, check the current price and access options before committing.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Disc only. Original case and manual not included. Will come packaged in a generic case.
- This renewed game has been cleaned, tested, and shows minimal wear.
Rank #4
- 25 Years after Gears of War 3, spurred by a series of strange disappearances, JD Fenix must embrace his father’s legacy and battle a terrifying new enemy
- Never Fight Alone: Enjoy two-player co-op with friends locally via split-screen, over Xbox Live or LAN. Player 2 can select either Kait or Del
- Redefined Cover Gameplay: New close-cover combat moves and combat-knife executions turn each piece of cover into an offensive opportunity
- Brutal New Weapons: An incredible arsenal of new weapons includes the Buzzkill and Dropshot, which can shoot around and over cover, raining destruction from all angles
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
