Xbox has enlisted a veteran Gears of War studio to co-develop the next series entry

People Can Fly is co-developing Gears of War: E-Day with Xbox studio The Coalition, it’s been announced.

The Polish developer has a long-standing history with the franchise dating back to when it was owned by original creator Epic Games.

It was a co-development partner on Gears of War 1-3, and the lead developer of Gears of War: Judgment.

“Returning to collaborate on the next chapter of this legendary saga is both a privilege and an exciting opportunity to build upon the intense, visceral action and rich storytelling that fans have come to love,” said People Can Fly CEO Sebastian Wojciechowski. “We are deeply grateful for our partners’ trust and support on this journey.”

Microsoft announced the next mainline entry in the Gears of War series at last summer’s Xbox Games Showcase.

E-Day is billed as an origin story that “depicts the horror of Locust invasion on Emergence Day through the eyes of Marcus Fenix”.

Following its reveal, it was claimed that Microsoft could release the game in 2025.

“Gears of War: E-Day is not just our next major game; it’s a return to what makes Gears of War games special and authentic,” Mike Crump, studio head at The Coalition, said in today’s announcement. “We’re pleased to be partnering with the talented folks at People Can Fly who have been a part of our franchise’s legacy for so long.”

People Can Fly development director Guillaume Barry added: “Our team at People Can Fly, made up of dedicated Gears of War fans, is pouring everything we have into creating an experience that will exceed expectations. While we can’t share more just yet, we’re eager for the day when we can show all the exciting things we’ve been working on.”

Last month, People Can Fly announced plans to lay off a significant number of employees due to “external market pressures”.

CEO Wojciechowski said the Painkiller, Bulletstorm and Outriders studio was “suspending or parting ways with more than 120 talented Aviators” as it reduced its self-publishing plans and suspended work on an unannounced game.