Ex-Highguard Developer Reflects on Game’s Flawed Launch and Missteps
A former developer of the game Highguard has openly reflected on the title’s troubled launch and the challenges faced by the development team. Released in January 2025 following its announcement at The Game Awards, Highguard garnered significant initial interest but quickly encountered criticism.
Highguard’s Game Awards Announcement
Highguard was showcased during The Game Awards, concluding the ceremony with a trailer that introduced players to a fantastical world filled with Wardens and their mounts. However, this announcement led to unforeseen complications. Following the trailer’s release, misconceptions and negativity began to cloud the game’s reputation.
Launch and Immediate Feedback
When Highguard launched, it attracted a large player base, but the reception was mixed. Critics pointed out issues such as:
- Map size dissatisfaction
- Disappointment with the 3v3 game format
In response, the development studio rolled out multiple updates, attempting to address these concerns and transitioning a limited-time 5v5 mode into a permanent feature.
Layoffs and Developer Reflections
Despite these efforts, Wildlight, the studio behind Highguard, announced layoffs mere weeks after the game’s free-to-play debut. Former lead technical artist Josh Sobel expressed deep concerns about the game’s launch trajectory.
Sobel remarked that the internal feedback before the game’s announcement had been positive, providing the team with confidence. However, following the trailer’s release, the narrative shifted dramatically. He stated:
“The hate started immediately.”
This reaction took a toll not only on the game’s reception but also on the morale of its developers. Sobel described how social media backlash turned Highguard into a target for mockery. Many online commenters expressed disdain, leading to over 14,000 negative reviews shortly after launch.
Developer Insights on Community Impact
Sobel provided insight into the complex relationship between developers and gamers, emphasizing that negative discourse can heavily influence a game’s success. He elaborated, saying:
“All products are at the whims of the consumers, and the consumers put absurd amounts of effort into slandering Highguard.”
He acknowledged that while gamers have the power to inform discussions, the relentless criticism undoubtedly impacted Highguard’s standing in the gaming community.
Looking Ahead
Although the situation for Highguard and its developers remains precarious, Sobel expressed no regrets about his involvement in the project. He highlighted that game development often involves learning from imperfections, stating:
“No game is perfect on day one.”
As the team continues to support Highguard, many in the gaming industry have rallied around the developers, urging understanding and patience as they navigate these turbulent waters.
