Gears of War 2 add-on hitting retail in July

Remember those rumours a while back about something called Gears of War 2: Dark Corners? Well, turns out it's a new map pack. And it won't just be available on Xbox Live. Nope, it will also be included along with all three previously released DLC map packs, a deleted campaign chapter called "Road to Ruin", a collectible poster, a strategy guide, a custom Xbox theme, and some sort of introduction by Cliff Bleszinski, in a new retail package called the All Fronts Collection. I'll catch my breath here while you peruse the seven new maps from the Dark Corners DLC:

Allfathers Garden: Honor the sacred grounds of the Coalition founders in this explosive map, where powerful weapons catalyze fast and furious action at this COG landmark.
Memorial: Set near the Eternal Flame, which pays tribute to the fallen soldiers on the battlefield, a hard-fought battle ensues at the Tomb of Unknowns. Putting their flank formation and evasive skills to the test, players will fight to control the Boomshot.
Sanctuary: Once a peaceful ground for reflection and remembrance, all that remains of the Sanctuary is the chill of death. Feast your eyes on the arsenal of weapons available as you make your way through the tight paths and blind corners of the Locust-damaged temple corridors.
War Machine: In the abandoned train station that once served as a hub for travel, players will need to master the Longshot, Mulcher and Boomshot weapons to advance the fight while evading fire from the platforms above.
Highway: Take the fight deep into the Locust Hollow in the complex passages of this underground highway system brimming with enemy vermin. Stick together, separate the enemy and have an exit strategy ready or it’ll be a one-way trip.
Way Station: Sitting in limbo between death and “processing” are Locust way stations filled with fallen COG soldiers. Tread lightly and practice patience as it’s better to sacrifice firepower for stealth while navigating this minefield of hidden grenades.
Nowhere: Set in the middle of what was once a destination for weary desert travellers, the land is now barren and devoid of life. Pick off your enemies with the Longshot sniper rifle and make your way to the stairwell with a well-fortified team during this intense firefight.

With South African gamers sadfacing over missing out on Gears 2 DLC, maybe here's our chance to finally chainsaw faces on Canals again. Er, that's assuming we actually see this at retail over here, anyway. And that's also assuming we'll be able to use the codes packaged in this, as there's no disc included. That's starting to look like too many assumptions.

All Fronts Collection is due out in LIVE-enabled regions (that's not us) worldwide on 28 July, for $19.99, £14.99, or €19.99, depending on which sinkhole you live in.