Highguard Permanently Introduces 5v5 Raid Mode After Player Demand

Wildlight Entertainment has officially made 5v5 Raid Mode a permanent feature in Highguard, responding quickly to community feedback just days after launch. The update arrives at a critical time for the PvP raid shooter, which has seen its player base drop by more than 80% since release. Whether this change can help revive interest in the game remains to be seen.

Revealed as the final major announcement at The Game Awards 2025, Highguard attracted massive global attention. However, the game’s launch reception was mixed. Many players questioned why a live-service title was given the spotlight at such a high-profile event, and comparisons to failed projects like PlayStation’s Concord added to the skepticism.

Released on January 26, Highguard quickly became a topic of discussion across social media and forums. One of the most common criticisms centered on the game’s 3v3-only match format, which many players felt made battles feel slow and underwhelming.

5v5 Raid Mode Is Now Here to Stay

In response, Wildlight Entertainment tested 5v5 Raid Mode as a limited-time experimental playlist. According to the developer, the test delivered strong results, with player engagement split almost evenly between 3v3 and 5v5 modes. Encouraged by this response, the studio confirmed that the mode will now remain permanently available.

In a social media announcement, the developer stated:
“You’ve been asking, and we’re happy to share—5v5 Raid Mode is here to stay.”

Community Response and Competitive Mode Debate

The decision has been widely praised by the community. Players on Reddit and in recent Steam reviews have highlighted how 5v5 matches feel more dynamic, action-packed, and better suited for casual play.

That said, some players have suggested that Competitive mode, once introduced, should remain 3v3 for balance reasons. Others have expressed hope that Wildlight Entertainment will support both 3v3 and 5v5 options within ranked play.

Player Count Concerns and Future Plans

Despite the positive response, Highguard continues to face challenges. According to SteamDB, the game currently sits at 8,318 active players, a sharp decline from its launch peak of 97,249 players. While the title is also available on Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5, indicating a higher overall player base, the drop remains significant.

Even so, Wildlight Entertainment appears committed to the project. A recently released post-launch roadmap outlines episodic content planned throughout 2026, including new Wardens, bases, weapons, mods, and additional features.

While Highguard may have stumbled at launch, the swift addition of 5v5 Raid Mode shows that the developers are actively listening to player feedback. The coming weeks will reveal whether continued updates can help stabilize and grow the game’s community.

Source: Highguard Permanently Introduces 5v5 Raid Mode After Player Demand