Microsoft will launch Gears Of War 3 in early April 2011, a trusted US publishing source has told Edge. Gears of War 3 has been highly anticipated and the first trailer is expected to be launched next month on the 8th April. Full reveal of the game is expected now to happen at E3 in June.

We understand that the game could be completed as early as this year, but that Microsoft is keen to release it during a different window to Halo: Reach – rumoured to be launching in September 2010 – and Natal, which is set to arrive this holiday.

“Microsoft’s keen to avoid a clash with Halo: Reach and wants Natal to own Christmas. That’s why we won’t be seeing Gears Of War 3 until next year, but expect a major marketing push ahead of its release,” said our source.