Highguard, the free-to-play, team-based PvP raid shooter from Wildlight Entertainment, has finally returned to the spotlight after weeks of near-complete silence from its developers — just days before its planned launch on January 26, 2026.
Originally revealed as the final announcement at The Game Awards 2025, Highguard has remained mysterious since then, with little public information on core gameplay or live-service plans. That radio silence had left many players and observers unsure about the game’s launch strategy and features.
Now, Wildlight Entertainment has confirmed a “Launch Showcase” livestream event timed for the very day the game goes live. The first major public update about the game since its trailer, the showcase is scheduled to begin on Monday, January 26 at 10 AM PT (1 PM ET / 6 PM GMT) and will be broadcast on official channels, including YouTube.
1. What to Expect From Highguard Launch Showcase
Highguard Wardens
Earlier this week, Highguard faced a leak on the official PlayStation page featuring the Trophy list for the title, revealing what to expect from the world of Highguard amid the radio silence from the studio. According to the announcement, the livestream will feature:
- An in-depth gameplay deep dive with live footage and developer commentary covering Highguard’s mechanics, modes, and core loop.
- Year-One Plans and Live Service Details, outlining how content, balance updates, cosmetics, and seasonal systems will roll out over time.
- Potential reveals about role systems, raids, and other mechanics that were not shown in the original Game Awards trailer.
Exactly how much new material will be shown remains to be seen. Still, this presentation marks the first opportunity for players to see actual gameplay footage and structure beyond early trailers and marketing assets.
2. Highguard Launch Details & Timing
Highguard Cinematic
Highguard is confirmed to launch on January 26, 2026, on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S with full cross-platform support. The game was developed by Wildlight Entertainment — a studio formed by veterans of major shooters such as Titanfall, Apex Legends, and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare.
- Release Time: Servers and access open at 10 AM PT on January 26, with availability soon after on all platforms.
- Console Online play: Highguard is free to play on all platforms and does not require PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass Core to access online multiplayer.
Unlike many launches where gameplay previews are shared in the weeks before release, Highguard’s developers opted to unveil the bulk of their gameplay and plans on launch day itself — a strategy that has sparked mixed reactions online.
Some fans have speculated that the livestream might coincide with a shadow drop or immediate access post-presentation, similar to surprise launches seen in other major live-service games.
3. Community Reaction
The long silence following the game’s reveal led to widespread speculation and skepticism within gaming communities, with some questioning if the game was still on track for launch. Social channels were largely inactive until the recent announcement, which many see as a last-minute attempt to build momentum.
Despite the rocky lead-up, Highguard’s return to public view has reignited interest, with discussion ranging from cautious excitement to skepticism about how the game will perform against established multiplayer shooters.
