Gears of War 4 marks an exciting chapter in the iconic franchise, introducing a new generation of heroes who must face a terrifying subterranean threat. Beyond the intense cover-based gunplay and chaotic combat sequences, the campaign features a massive assortment of hidden items scattered across its various acts. Finding these items expands the rich lore of Sera and awards players with valuable achievements for their thorough exploration.
Tracking the Elusive COG Tags
Military identification tags represent the most iconic collectibles scattered across the campaign maps. These metallic tokens are historically left behind by fallen Coalition of Ordered Governments soldiers during intense historical skirmishes. Finding them requires keeping a sharp eye out for the classic crimson gear logo painted on nearby walls or concrete barriers.
When you spot a red skull icon, it signals that a lost token is hidden within the immediate environment. Check behind large pieces of debris, inside darkened corners, or near long-abandoned military vehicles to uncover the target. Gathering these items honors the memories of past frontline defenders while providing deep context regarding historical operations.
Uncovering Lost Journals and Historical Documents
The narrative depth of the game expands significantly when you take the time to read the scattered paper remnants. Throughout your journey, you will encounter ancient books, personal diaries, and official government memos left behind by citizens. These written pieces offer a unique glimpse into civilian life during the turbulent years following the Locust War.
Many of these paper fragments are located inside abandoned settlements, ruined farmhouses, and highly secure industrial facilities. Be sure to check desks, tables, and bookshelves before moving forward into new areas. Reading these documents helps players understand the emotional struggles and geopolitical shifts shaping the modern world.
Securing Forgotten Relics and Artifacts
The untamed wilderness outside the protected walled cities holds many secrets from previous decades. Players will discover unique historical artifacts, including old weapons, armor fragments, and forgotten technological devices. These objects are often tucked away in optional paths that require you to stray from the primary mission path.
Exploring every divergent corridor ensures you do not bypass these highly valuable environmental items. Some of these unique artifacts are hidden right before major enemy encounters or immediately after complex defensive standoffs. Taking a brief moment to scan the environment after clearing a wave can yield incredible discoveries.
Tips for Successful Campaign Clean Up
Achieving absolute total completion requires a systematic approach to navigating the various acts of the game. Utilizing the built-in pause menu allows you to track exactly how many hidden items remain in your current chapter. This feature minimizes the risk of moving past crucial checkpoints before securing every available item.
If you happen to miss a specific item, you can easily load individual chapters from the main menu later. Playing on lower difficulty settings is highly recommended when focusing solely on tracking down these hidden pieces. This strategy allows you to explore the beautifully realized environments at a leisurely pace without constant tactical pressure.
