The fantasy shooter adjusts its proposal with less than two weeks to go before launch, after criticism of the 3v3 mode and a sharp drop in active users
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The fantasy shooter Highguard, developed by Wildlight Entertainment, modified its initial strategy and decided to make the 5 versus 5 mode permanent, after it recorded a rapid decrease in players following a debut that had caused moderate expectations within the genre.
The decision comes less than two weeks after the official launch and responds to widespread criticism about the lack of dynamism in the main 3 versus 3 mode, which was described by the community as not intense enough for large maps.
A launch with contained expectations
Highguard was presented at The Game Awards 2025 and was released on January 26, 2026 with limited promotion. Its proposal combined a fantasy aesthetic with mechanics typical of multiplayer shooters, in an already highly competitive market.
From the beginning, the game tried to differentiate itself with smaller matches and a tactical emphasis, although that choice ended up being one of the main points questioned by players.
Criticism of the 3v3 mode and loss of users
Highguard hace permanente el modo 5v5 tras la rotunda caída de jugadores
The 3 versus 3 matches were perceived as slow and with long downtimes, especially on large maps. This lack of pace directly affected the gameplay experience and was reflected in the numbers.
According to Steam data, the title went from almost 100,000 concurrent players in its first days to fewer than 10,000 in a short time, an abrupt drop even by usual standards for multiplayer launches.
5v5 as an immediate response
In this scenario, Wildlight Entertainment decided to make the 5 versus 5 mode permanent, which was originally planned as a temporary option. The measure aims to offer more active matches and to respond quickly to the community's demands.
Although the change was well received by some players, other players warn that the problem isn't limited to the number of participants, but to deeper issues in the overall design.
Mixed reception and doubts about the game's identity
On Steam, the game's rating went from mostly negative to mixed, reflecting some improvement after the initial adjustments. However, criticism persists on social media, especially regarding the lack of a distinct identity compared with other established shooters.
Several users point out that Highguard adopts mechanics already seen in popular titles without providing clear innovation that would distinguish it within the genre.
The challenge of sustaining interest
Although there are no precise figures for consoles, cross-play between platforms makes it possible to maintain acceptable matchmaking times, which suggests a broader player base outside PC. Even so, the consensus is that the title needs deeper changes in order to become established.
Highguard's case once again highlights the difficulties of launching a multiplayer shooter today: extreme competition, demanding communities, and a very short window of time to correct mistakes. The permanent adoption of the 5v5 mode is a first step, but the game's future will depend on whether it manages to redefine its proposal and retain players in the long term.
