So far, 2026 has been eventful, but nothing compares to the odd release of Highguard. Launched with little fanfare after its debut at The Game Awards 2025, it quickly faced a storm of negative reviews. Yet, Wildlight Entertainment, the developer, jumped in quickly to address these issues. Now, the mood has lifted slightly thanks to the introduction of a new 5v5 mode, but can the game shake off its troubled start?
Before the last weekend, the first patch tackled some major complaints, and the new 5v5 mode added some much-needed action to the vast maps. Players found this update refreshing. As a result, the Steam reviews improved to “Mixed,” with many now enjoying a more dynamic gameplay experience.
However, discussions on social media still lean negative. Some users seem more interested in critiquing the game than giving constructive feedback. While it’s fair to say the live-service model is facing scrutiny, it’s often hard to find genuine criticism in the noise.
The reality is Highguard is struggling due to a rocky launch and its unfinished feel. The esports landscape is crowded, and not all games mesh well. The 5v5 mode offers a glimpse of what Highguard could be, but questions remain about its longevity. Wildlight has outlined a year-long roadmap for the game, but can it really maintain player interest that long?
Looking at SteamDB data reveals a concerning trend. Since launch on January 26, the number of concurrent players has gradually dropped, with just 3,157 active players right now and a peak of 8,404 within 24 hours. While recent reviews show a slight improvement, these numbers are not what you’d hope for just a week after launch.
We still need data on console players, but crossplay has made matchmaking smoother, suggesting there might be a larger audience waiting. Personally, I’m intrigued about Highguard after the 5v5 update. However, given my past experiences with similar games, I’m keeping my expectations in check.
As gaming evolves, the feedback loop between developers and players is crucial. A recent survey by Game Developer Insights found that 67% of players prioritize engaging updates and a clear communication strategy from game builders. If Highguard can capitalize on feedback and continue improving, it might yet carve out a niche in the crowded online shooter landscape.
