Unveiled during Geoff Keighley’s special announcement at the conclusion of The Game Awards, Highguard emerged as a new venture from former developers of Apex Legends and Titanfall. The game showcases a mystical theme where characters wield a blend of magical powers and futuristic weapons.
Highguard stands out from the crowded hero shooter genre by introducing unique gameplay dynamics. Matches are divided into two stages, with players initially competing to secure the ‘Shieldbreaker,’ a massive weapon used to breach an enemy’s defensive barrier.
Following the destruction of the Shieldbreaker, teams must invade the opponent’s stronghold to claim territory and accumulate points. The game trailer depicts players riding mounts and engaging in environmental destruction, distinguishing Highguard from its competitors.
Geoff Keighley expressed his enthusiasm prior to the unveiling, inviting audiences to experience the game for themselves after watching the trailer. However, not all gamers shared his optimism, as some skeptics on Reddit criticized Highguard as an Overwatch imitator.
Despite entering a challenging market for hero shooters, Highguard benefits from a team of over 60 seasoned shooter developers from Respawn Entertainment. The free-to-play model sets it apart from previous failed attempts in the genre, like Sony’s Concord, which faced significant backlash and was quickly withdrawn from the market.
Self-published by Wildlight Entertainment, Highguard aims to offer a fresh perspective on the hero shooter genre, devoid of corporate interference. With a release date set for January 26, 2026, gamers will soon have the opportunity to judge Highguard’s potential when it becomes available for download in just over six weeks.