The Internet Was Wrong About HighGuard

About this episode

The episode discusses the new free-to-play raid shooter Highguard and its innovative approach to competitive gameplay and live service.

We just got back from Los Angeles after spending several hours hands-on with Highguard, the new free-to-play raid shooter from Wildlight Entertainment, a studio led by developers with deep roots in games like Apex Legends and Titanfall.On paper, it is easy to dismiss Highguard as “another shooter,” especially in a crowded 2026 lineup. But after playing multiple full matches, sitting down with the design and product leads, and seeing how the systems work together, it is clear this game is aiming for something genuinely different.Highguard introduces a new take on competitive shooters through a multi-phase raid structure built around strategy, teamwork, and base defense. Each match flows through gearing up, intercepting the shield breaker, and launching full raids against enemy bases. Wardens are distinct without overpowering gunplay, abilities are additive instead of dominant, and every match feels meaningfully different based on player decisions.We also break down how Highguard approaches live service in a way that feels unusually respectful. The War Chest battle pass is free, there is no pay-to-win, no loot boxes, no RNG storefront pressure, and cosmetic purchases are…

People in this episode

Host: Kahlief Adams

Topics covered

• Highguard
• competitive shooters
• live service
• game design
• teamwork
• raid structure

Keywords

• Highguard
• raid shooter
• Wildlight Entertainment
• game design
• live service
• Apex Legends
• Titanfall

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Wildlight Entertainment

Products: Highguard

Books & works: Apex Legends, Titanfall

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