It looks like Microsoft might need to find a new packaging and distribution company. Much like Fable 2 before it, it appears as though the bonus codes for downloadable content that was supposed to be included with Gears of War 2 are missing for some folks. According to some posts on the official Epic Forums, people with copies in hand are already seeing this problem. While the game doesn't officially hit the retail streets until tonight, a lot of folks have managed to get a copy early via a certain online retailers as well as a certain Slushi selling mini-mart.
Gears of War 2 is shipping with two codes in the box, a gooooold lancer code for CE owners and a one time use code to download five additional multiplayer maps for all copies of the game. We got our review copy yesterday into Co-Optimus HQ and both the map pack code and gold hammer code (for the Midnight Mayhem) came with it.
We'll keep you updated as more info becomes available. You may want to check your copy at the retailer tonight before going home.
Source: Gearsforums.epicgames.com