Wildlight has released the final update for its free-to-play hero shooter, Highguard, just days before its permanent shutdown. This last patch includes a new Warden named Koldo, who uses his soul's power to protect teammates, alongside a versatile weapon called The Switchback, a double-barrel shotgun that can transition into a marksman rifle. The update also features a revamped skill tree, allowing players to adopt different playstyles with distinct perks and abilities. While the team worked hard to finish this update, many elements are noted as incomplete due to the rushed timeline, highlighting the challenges the game faced since its launch.
What new features are included in Highguard's final update?The final update for Highguard introduces a new Warden named Koldo with protective abilities, a double-barrel shotgun called The Switchback, and a skill tree that allows players to customize their playstyle through various branches and options.
Highguard was initially launched with potential but experienced a rapid decline in player engagement and revenue, leading to its shutdown decision. The game featured a unique combat system and had garnered attention during its reveal at The Game Awards 2025, but gameplay criticisms and reduced player numbers plagued its overall viability. The culmination of financial struggles and a small development team ultimately led to this final update before its closure.
Comments
It's always tough to see a game go out like this, but at least they went down swinging with some cool new toys. That shotgun-rifle hybrid is the kind of wild idea I wish they'd had more time to fully flesh out.
It's a bittersweet send-off for Highguard, but that new Warden and weapon combo sounds like a fun last hurrah. Shame the rushed development cycle meant we never got to see its full potential realized.