A former developer from Wildlight recently shared insights about the troubled launch of *Highguard*, which wrapped up The Game Awards last year. After a reveal that he described as misunderstood, Josh Sobel expressed that the team felt “turned into a joke” due to the backlash surrounding the game’s trailer.
<pHighguard was presented at The Game Awards 2025, showcasing a world filled with battling Wardens and magical mounts. It launched in January, attracting a rush of players but also facing criticism. Concerns emerged about the map size and the 3v3 format, prompting the studio to roll out updates and make the previously limited 5v5 mode permanent.
However, just weeks after its free-to-play debut, several Wildlight developers were laid off. Sobel commented that the team’s optimism faded after the trailer’s release. He noted that before the reveal, internal feedback had been positive, and many believed they had a hit on their hands. But after the trailer aired, negativity surged on social media, overshadowing the initial excitement.
In his detailed social media post, Sobel highlighted a startling observation: negative content tends to garner more engagement than positive insights. “Content creators love to show bias, especially when negativity draws more views,” he wrote. Sobel felt the harsh reactions following the trailer were overwhelming and detrimental to morale. Many comments mocked the game, leading to a wave of what he called “review bombs.” The game received over 14,000 negative reviews from players who barely spent time in it.
Sobel stressed that while he doesn’t blame gamers entirely for the game’s struggles, the toxic backlash played a part in its rocky reception. “Gamers do hold power to shape discussions about us,” he said. “The narrative shifted quickly, leaving little room for a fair evaluation.” His reflections reveal a deeper issue within the gaming community: the balance between constructive criticism and negativity. Games have become easy targets for online outrage, which can lead to substantial consequences.
While *Highguard* is still technically live, uncertainty looms over its future. Sobel articulated a mix of pride and disappointment in his team’s efforts, noting that even if the ride ended abruptly, he has no regrets. “This journey has been tough but rewarding,” he stated.
Other voices from the industry also showed support, with the studio behind *Splitgate: Arena Reloaded* reminding everyone that “no game is perfect on day one.” The gaming community, along with reviews and reactions on platforms like Twitter and Twitch, continue to shape how new titles are perceived and received. It’s a reminder that while developers can pour their hearts into a project, public reaction can swing the pendulum in unexpected ways.
At the end of the day, the story of *Highguard* is about more than just one game. It reflects the fragile relationship between developers and gamers, where even the slightest misstep can lead to significant consequences. As the gaming landscape evolves, these conversations remain essential in fostering a healthier environment for both creators and players.
