Highguard: A Fresh Shooter Launching Soon from Industry Veterans

A brand-new gaming experience, developed by a team of industry veterans, was recently unveiled, promising a fresh take on the competitive shooter genre. Wildlight Entertainment, a studio founded in 2021 by experienced creators from well-known franchises such as Apex Legends and Call of Duty, has been meticulously crafting their inaugural title, Highguard, for the past four years. This new game aims to introduce players to an expansive and engaging universe, setting the stage for a unique competitive landscape.

Highguard is conceptualized as a free-to-play player-versus-player raid shooter, where participants embody "Wardens," described as mystical gunslingers engaged in a struggle for dominance over a fabled continent. The core gameplay loop involves players forming teams to vie for control of a powerful artifact known as the Shieldbreaker, subsequently launching assaults to dismantle rival bases. The game's design incorporates elements like aerial transport and companion eagles, adding layers of strategic depth and immersion. The studio’s co-founder and CEO, Dusty Welch, emphasized their commitment to forging a gaming universe of unparalleled scale and quality, a sentiment echoed by game director Chad Grenier, who highlighted the studio’s dedication to creative autonomy and design-driven decision-making.

In a notable deviation from the usual practice of announcing games years in advance, Highguard is slated for release on January 26, 2026, featuring cross-play and cross-progression capabilities across PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5. This rapid turnaround from announcement to launch, particularly after a prominent reveal at The Game Awards, underscores the studio’s confidence in the game’s readiness and represents a significant endorsement from event host Geoff Keighley. The decision to conclude such a high-profile event with a completely new intellectual property, and one that is almost immediately available for play, is an ambitious move that will soon be put to the test as players get their first taste of Highguard.

This innovative approach to game development and release showcases a forward-thinking vision for the industry. By prioritizing a swift launch after a major reveal, Wildlight Entertainment not only demonstrates confidence in their product but also offers a refreshing alternative to prolonged anticipation. This strategy, coupled with a commitment to creative excellence and player engagement, fosters an environment of excitement and anticipation for the future of gaming.