Microsoft and Epic Games, Inc. announced today that Gears of War 2, the blockbuster action sequel to the five million unit selling original, has gone gold.

"After two years of pouring our heart and passion into Gears of War 2, the team is immensely happy with what we've created," said Epic Games Design Director Cliff Bleszinski. "This is Epic's best work yet, and we can't wait to see the response from fans and newcomers to the series alike."

Gears of War 2 tells the story of humanity's last stand against the nightmarish, underground Locust Horde, and is the follow-up to one of the most popular Xbox 360 games in history. Gears of War 2 is rated "M" for Mature by the ESRB and will be available exclusively on Xbox 360 with an M.S.R.P of $59.99 for the Standard Edition and $69.99 for the Limited Edition.

Fans should continue to visit gearsofwar.com for more news and announcements as release day approaches.