Highguard shuts down after 'farewell tour' update

After a brief, turbulent life, free-to-play PvP raid shooter Highguard is officially closing its doors next week. The game, which launched with minimal player communication and a rocky start, received its final update – a "farewell tour" patch – just days before its scheduled shutdown on March 12th.

Final patch brings new content to closing game

Developer Wildlight announced the permanent closure of Highguard back in March, but opted for a final update packed with new features for its remaining player base. The patch, dubbed "The Farewell Tour," introduces a new Warden, Koldo, a versatile new weapon called the Switchback, and a comprehensive account progression system.

Highguard's launch in January was marked by a lack of pre-launch buzz, with concurrent player counts peaking at nearly 100,000 on Steam before quickly declining. While the developers attempted to address player concerns, including adding a 5v5 game mode, a subsequent studio layoff signaled deeper issues.

The final update offers players a chance to maximize their time with the game. Account level progression allows players to reach level 100, earning skill points to invest in four distinct skill trees: Raider, Infiltration, Juggernaut, Spearhead, Harvester, Axe, Field Crafting, Treasure Hunter, Treasure Seeker, Archaeologist, Resonant Walls, Unbreakable Armor, and Vanguard. Players can freely respec their skill points.

Koldo, the new Warden, is a soul-bound warrior seeking answers to his past. His abilities focus on protecting allies with his soul, deploying shields, and unleashing a protective dome. The Switchback weapon offers a unique dual-mode design, transitioning between a shotgun and a marksman rifle.

The Switchback comes in two gold versions, obtainable through loot chests or Trader Flynn. The final patch also includes improvements to account progression and XP gain, designed to allow players to quickly explore the full range of the new features. Perhaps the most telling detail: the developers thanked players for their time, acknowledging the game's shortcomings while offering a final, engaging experience.

The swift closure of Highguard serves as a stark reminder of the risks inherent in the free-to-play market. Even with attempts to course-correct, a lack of early engagement and subsequent staff cuts ultimately proved insurmountable. The game's fate underscores a critical lesson for developers: building a community requires more than just a compelling concept.

Wildlight's decision to provide a final update, however, speaks to a degree of respect for its player base. It’s a bittersweet end for those who invested time in the game, a testament to the fleeting nature of online experiences. And a cautionary tale for those hoping to carve out a lasting presence in the crowded gaming landscape.