What Are Critics Saying About Highguard? The Buzz Is Electrifying!
As of January 26, 2026, there's a thrilling new title making waves in the gaming world: Highguard. This free-to-play game, which has just launched on Xbox, has already sparked considerable discussion among players and reviewers alike. But here's where it gets controversial—initial reviews from Steam label it as "Overwhelmingly Negative," raising questions about its reception. Clearly, opinions are divided on this one. If you're curious, why not dive in and form your own opinion?
The Game at a Glance
Highguard, developed by the talented team behind Titanfall and Apex Legends, is an online PvP raid shooter that promises an exhilarating experience. Despite speculation surrounding its timely launch, it’s finally available, and reviews are pouring in from various gaming outlets. What's fascinating is the blend of "reviews," "previews," and "impressions" that critics are offering, leaving many unsure of how to categorize their thoughts on this innovative title.
A Summary of Early Reactions
We've compiled some key insights from different gaming sources to understand what critics think of Highguard thus far:
CNET (Positive Review):
"Imagine racing across a vibrant fantasy landscape on horseback, charged with adrenaline as you and your team make a mad dash toward the enemy base. Armed with a magic sword that could turn the tide of battle, the thrill of this moment was exhilarating. I found myself eagerly jumping back into game sessions all day long, relishing every second."Escapist Magazine (Positive Impressions):
"While I wouldn’t claim that Highguard is flawless or that every match will be a hit, I genuinely believe it offers a competitive experience that invites players to dive in repeatedly without much waiting time. For those seeking fast-paced, impactful action, it stands out as one of the best shooters available today."GameSpot (Positive Take):
"Although I have some concerns regarding game balance—which I’ll elaborate on shortly—there's a refreshing excitement in Highguard’s gameplay. Will it succeed in the highly competitive landscape of live-service shooters dominated by established franchises? Only time will tell. However, I suspect that the innovative aspects of Wildlight's shooter will inspire similar games in the years ahead."Kotaku (Positive Reflection):
"Highguard has faced its share of online mockery, but I hope players will give it the fair chance it deserves. It's rare for a developer to truly innovate within a genre, and Highguard does seem to offer something unique. Much like Titanfall before it, I can envision this game cultivating a dedicated following, provided it receives that opportunity."Metro (Promising Outlook):
"We had the pleasure of playing Highguard in an ideal setting, surrounded by fellow press members, which undoubtedly heightened the experience. Beyond these thrilling first impressions, we pondered whether the game has enough engaging elements to keep players returning daily or weekly once the initial novelty fades. Only time will reveal the answer, but its unique blend of familiar mechanics generates a promising first impression."ScreenRant (Positive Preview):
"After dedicating around six hours to Highguard, I can confidently say it’s one of the most refreshing and enjoyable shooters crafted by a passionate development team. These creators have a track record of delivering some of the best titles in the past 15 years, and they clearly know how to make an impact while aiming to innovate."
Overall, the initial reception for Highguard has been largely favorable, with numerous critics expressing enthusiasm and positivity about the game. The lingering question now is whether it will resonate with a broader audience. And if you're interested in trying it out, it’s available for free on both Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S! Simply head over to the Microsoft Store app and search for "Highguard" to get started.
Are you looking forward to trying out Highguard on your Xbox? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments section below!
