Gears 5 missable missions are most certainly a thing. While previous games in the series had a very linear format, with players moving through relatively tight spaces with only one objective to complete, Gears 5 does things differently, incorporating open world elements into Act 2 and Act 3. There are now many more collectibles to find and side missions to complete. These side missions are optional, with players able to choose if and when to complete them. However, there are points of no return that will prevent you from achieving 100% completion in a single playthrough. Here’s what you need to know.
Can you go back to complete side missions in Gears 5?
Unfortunately, there are two points of no return that players should be aware of. Thankfully, both of these moments make it clear that there won’t be any going back, demanding the player makes a choice between moving on with the story, or canceling and continuing to explore. Both Act 2 and Act 3 have points of no return that are explicitly marked as such, so players should have plenty of warning.
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You can see an example of the warning in the image above. The Coalition has made it pretty clear when you’re not able to go back and complete missions. Look out for this message as you play the game.
If you do somehow accidentally select the wrong option during a Gears 5 point of no return, all is not lost. Using the campaign’s chapter selection menu allows players to revisit past acts and chapters, giving them the chance to go back and complete those missed missions.
If you’re going for 100% completion in a single playthrough, you’ll want to make sure that you’re searching every nook and cranny in every level. This can be challenging in the more open environments, but take your time and then press on past the points of no return.