On Thursday, May 3, Gears of War gamers with Xbox Live can ready-up and prepare for (more) battle as Microsoft will be releasing four new multiplayer maps as the Hidden Fronts Multiplayer Map Pack.

For 800 Microsoft points, COG soldiers and the Locust Horde can carrying on with the clashing thing, vying for control of these four new areas, including Bullet Marsh, Garden, Process and Subway, described thus:

Bullet Marsh: In this Kryll-infested swamp, an old generator still powers the area lights. A few stray bullets could easily knock out the generator, leaving combatants to fend for themselves against the Kryll.

Garden: This overgrown and crumbling conservatory still has a working fertilization and pesticide system. This system can pose a serious hazard to anyone who ventures into the greenhouse without first venting the air.

Process: Teams must fight for control of this subterranean Imulsion processing plant, still active despite the cessation of the Pendulum wars.

Subway (really, what self-respecting shooter doesn't have a subway level?): Timgad’s Central Subway station used to serve as a central hub for commuters. Now the tunnels are crawling with Locust.

If you're frugal or disinterested and can wait, all four of the new maps will also be made available for free -- but not until Sept. 3, 2007.