The whispers started months ago: “Highguard is vaporware.” Doubts festered as silence from Wildlight Entertainment stretched on, the memory of that Game Awards trailer fading. Then, a jolt—two simple posts on X, piercing the quiet like a sniper’s shot.
Highguard, poised to be one of 2026’s most talked-about (and potentially divisive) free-to-play shooters, has been shrouded in mystery. That initial trailer from The Game Awards 2025 was enough to hook many, but the developers subsequently went dark. Now, with the launch date looming, Wildlight Entertainment has finally stirred.
The prolonged silence, especially unusual for a live service title, ignited skepticism among potential players. Some wondered if the marketing strategy was a stroke of genius or a prelude to disaster. But the speculation ends now. As launch day approaches on January 26, 2026, Wildlight Entertainment has posted a double announcement on X, promising a gameplay showcase. Here’s what you need to know:
The Curtain Rises: Highguard Launch Day Showcase
I remember waiting in line for hours to see a band I loved, only to have them play behind a screen. Wildlight Entertainment is betting you won’t feel the same way. The PlayHighguard X page features a countdown image: two Wardens riding a horse and a bear, hinting at the game’s mythical backdrop and the battles to come. More significantly, the second post announces a Highguard Launch Showcase, premiering January 26, 2026, at 10 AM PT on their YouTube channel.
The stream promises a close-up, covering gameplay, year-one plans, and more. Rumors also suggest announcements of in-game bonuses and details about the microtransaction system – a moment of truth for any live service title.
What Gameplay Details Have Been Leaked?
It seems even Wildlight couldn’t contain all the secrets. Prior to the official announcement, the game’s trophy list leaked, exposing gameplay details. The leak points to five character roles: Assault, Defensive, Support, Recon, and Destruction.
I always find it fascinating when pre-release leaks paint an incomplete picture. The trophy list suggests a Raid Mode where players attack enemy Warden bases. Players must plant a Shieldbreaker to initiate a raid and then defend the area until the raid is complete. The trophy list, if accurate, reveals a layer of strategic depth.
Think of it like this: If the game is the forest, the showcase is the trail map. It gives you just enough to start exploring.
When Will Highguard Actually Launch?
While these details generate excitement, the proof will be in the playing. January 26 is the day players get to experience the highlight of TGA 2025 for themselves. The game’s success hinges on its ability to deliver on the promises teased in the trailer and expanded upon in the upcoming showcase.
Will Highguard Microtransactions Be “Pay-to-Win”?
That is the million-dollar (€920,000) question. Wildlight’s showcase will undoubtedly address monetization. However, the proof will be in how those systems integrate into the overall experience. Will they provide advantages that unbalance the game, or will they focus on cosmetic enhancements and time-saving boosts?
The success of Highguard depends on Wildlight Entertainment’s ability to deliver a polished experience and a fair monetization model. The showcase on January 26th acts as the opening argument. Will they win over the jury, or will the game fade into obscurity? What are your expectations for Highguard, and what would make or break the game for you?