For better or worse, Wildlight Entertainment’s free-to-play PvP shooter Highguard is out now on Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC. On the one hand, it peaked at 97,249 concurrent Steam players about two hours after launch (per SteamDB). Considering it’s a free-to-play competitive shooter that many expected to be dead-on-arrival, that’s pretty good.
On the other hand, however, it’s rated “Overwhelmingly Negative” on the platform. Out of the currently 2,691 user reviews, only 18 percent recommend Highguard. Not the best first impression by a long shot, but what are some of the most notable complaints?
One review takes exception to the 3v3 format, feeling that the map sizes would be better suited for 5v5 or 6v6. However, they also cited audio issues and uninspired weapons (which still feel “nice to shoot”). Another criticizes the optimization (and Kernel anti-cheat), a sentiment echoed by another reviewer whose specifications are well beyond the recommended.
Overall, it’s a litany of different issues, but some have left negative reviews without really delving into further details. Nevertheless, Wildlight Entertainment seems committed – it laid out a roadmap for the next 12 months, with Episode 2 slated for February. Alongside new Wardens, maps, bases, weapons, mounts, and more, there are also limited-time events and some “surprises” to look forward to.
