The recent buzz surrounding Highguard, an upcoming hero shooter game developed by veterans from Apex Legends and Titanfall, has sparked intense speculation. Many believed that Highguard had to pay a hefty sum to secure its finale slot at The Game Awards, the biggest gaming showcase of the year. However, this assumption has been proven wrong.
Two reliable sources have confirmed that Highguard did not pay for its coveted spot. Showrunner Geoff Keighley, known for his passion for gaming, reportedly offered the slot to Highguard due to his personal interest in the game. While there are rumors that another game might have dropped out, leaving the spot open, this information remains unconfirmed.
The revelation that Highguard didn't pay for its prime position has sparked a debate, with some criticizing Geoff Keighley for 'sending the game out to die.' However, it's important to note that Keighley's intentions were likely to support a game he believed in, rather than causing any harm. Ultimately, the decision to appear at The Game Awards rested with Wildlight, the developers of Highguard, who clearly had faith in their creation.
Highguard has announced its release date as January 26, 2026, which is just around the corner. Surprisingly, the game has remained silent, with no additional marketing efforts, not even a single tweet. However, there have been whispers of a recent major preview event, and coverage is expected to begin soon. Starting a marketing campaign just a week before release is a bold move, especially when one considers the potential benefits of previewing game features to turn around initial negative sentiment.
Highguard's free-to-play nature might be its saving grace, as players can try it without commitment. The game's concept of a 'raid' based shooter, focusing on territorial advancement, sets it apart from traditional 5v5 arena games or extraction shooters. However, the trailer did not leave a strong impression, appearing generic, and the fatigue surrounding hero shooters is a real concern unless the game offers something truly unique, like a roster of Marvel characters.
At this point, it's impossible to predict Highguard's success or failure. The game's future remains shrouded in mystery, with too many unknowns. While the initial trailer and the lack of marketing might not bode well, the idea that Highguard spent its entire budget on The Game Awards slot is a misconception.
The developer, Wildlight, has been contacted for comment, and we await their response.
Stay tuned for more updates, and feel free to share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below! Will Highguard surprise us all, or will it struggle to find its footing? Only time will tell.
