Ex-Highguard Dev Says The Shooter 'Leaned Too Far Into the Competitive Scene,' And That 'Turned a Lot of Players Off'

IGN

by Vikki Blake

March 2, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Highguard, the free-to-play PvP raid shooter developed by Wildlight, has been criticized for leaning too heavily into a competitive gameplay model that alienated casual players and ultimately contributed to its downfall. According to Alex Graner, a former developer at Wildlight, the game's focus on high-intensity 3v3 duos created an environment that required constant teamwork, communication, and skill, leaving little room for casual play. This intense competitive focus, combined with complex rules and objectives, made it difficult for new or solo players to engage with the game, leading many to abandon it. Graner explained that Highguard's design choices, such as its 3v3 format and fast-paced action, created a steep learning curve and high-pressure scenarios. Players without pre-existing teams often struggled to succeed, particularly if they faced uncooperative teammates or experienced losses early on. This dynamic made the game feel inaccessible and frustrating for many players, who found it challenging to justify continuing their investment in the title. The game's failure is also tied to its sudden launch following a disastrous marketing campaign and financial missteps. Highguard was initially backed by Tencent but lost funding just weeks after release, leaving the team with fewer than 20 developers. Despite peaking at 97,249 concurrent players on Steam during its launch, the game's player base dwindled to just 105 users on Valve's platform. The story of Highguard serves as a cautionary tale for developers and gamers alike about the importance of balancing competitive elements with accessibility. Graner's insights highlight how design choices can inadvertently alienate players, particularly in games that emphasize team-based competition without offering pathways for solo or casual play. As gaming continues to evolve, understanding these dynamics becomes crucial for creating engaging experiences that resonate with a broad audience. Ultimately, Highguard's downfall underscores the risks of prioritizing competitive gameplay over inclusivity and accessibility. The game's failure offers valuable lessons about the importance of player retention strategies, community building, and ensuring that games are designed to cater to both casual and hardcore players. For developers, this case serves as a reminder to carefully consider how competitive elements can be integrated without alienating potential players.

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Originally published on IGN on 3/2/2026