The gaming world is abuzz with the launch of Highguard, a new multiplayer shooter from Wildlight Entertainment, but the debut has been anything but smooth. Following an unexpected reveal at the Game Awards, the game is grappling with poor reviews and technical issues as it attempts to carve out a niche in an already crowded market. With its unique blend of shooter and MOBA elements, Highguard has a grand vision that now faces the challenge of winning over sceptical players.
A Rocky Reveal
In an industry where anticipation and execution are crucial, Highguard’s launch has sparked debate. The game was unveiled during the prestigious Game Awards last December, but the surprise announcement left many viewers scratching their heads. Instead of the highly anticipated bombshells typical of the event, audiences were treated to a brief glimpse of a fantasy-themed shooter that had flown under the radar.
Originally, Wildlight aimed for a stealthy release akin to the successful shadow drop of Apex Legends. However, after being offered a spot by Game Awards organiser Geoff Keighley, the team found themselves thrust into the limelight. While the exposure could have been beneficial, it appears the rushed reveal has resulted in a backlash, with many players expressing disappointment as they dove into the game on its launch day, 26 January 2026.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Despite its bumpy start, Highguard offers an intriguing gameplay experience that combines the thrills of online shooting with the strategic depth of a MOBA. Players are divided into teams of three, each selecting from a roster of unique heroes, and the objective is to obliterate the opposing team’s base before theirs meets the same fate. The gameplay unfolds in phases: players first fortify their castles, then embark on loot quests, and finally engage in frenetic battles.
The game’s mechanics draw comparisons to established titles like Rainbow Six Siege and Fortnite, but Highguard possesses a distinctive identity shaped by its fantasy and mythological themes. Riders on spirit horses, wielding lightning bolts, and erecting ice walls add a whimsical touch to the combat. Yet, the inclusion of classic firearms, such as shotguns and assault rifles, creates an unexpected juxtaposition that may leave players intrigued or confused.
Technical Challenges and Player Reception
While the gameplay offers a fresh take, the technical side of Highguard has raised eyebrows. On launch day, players flocked to the game—around 100,000 joined in the first hours—but many soon encountered frustrating performance issues, including long matchmaking queues. The negative feedback flooded in almost immediately, painting a grim picture for a title that had just begun its journey.
The stark contrast between the grand reveal and the subsequent player experience has led to a wave of criticism. In an industry that tends to remember missteps, Highguard’s rocky entry could linger in the minds of gamers, potentially hampering its longevity. Moreover, with competitors like Valve developing their own MOBA-inspired titles, the stakes are high for Wildlight to impress and retain its player base.
The Competitive Landscape
Highguard enters a battlefield littered with the remains of previous contenders, from Concord to Battleborn, and it must navigate a formidable landscape dominated by giants like Fortnite, which generates a staggering £5 billion annually. With the stakes so high and development costs soaring into the hundreds of millions, the pressure is on for Wildlight to not only fix its current issues but also to foster a vibrant community around Highguard.
The road ahead is undoubtedly steep. Wildlight must not only address the immediate concerns raised by players but also find ways to differentiate Highguard in a space that is constantly evolving. Innovation and responsiveness to player feedback will be crucial if they hope to build a loyal fanbase and avoid the fate of countless other failed games.
Why it Matters
Highguard’s launch serves as a cautionary tale for game developers: the execution of a reveal can be just as important as the game itself. As the industry evolves, players are increasingly discerning, and a misstep can lead to lasting repercussions. Wildlight Entertainment has a unique opportunity to refine and enhance Highguard while learning from the early criticisms. If they succeed, they could not only salvage their reputation but also redefine multiplayer gaming with a fresh, engaging experience. The spotlight is now firmly on them, and the gaming community is watching closely.
