Highguard Introduces 5v5 Mode Just Days After Launch to Address Player Feedback on Map Issues

Highguard’s reveal at The Game Awards didn’t go over well, quickly becoming a target for criticism within the gaming community, and that negativity lingered through its launch. However, the Steam review score is beginning to improve, and in response to player feedback, developer Wildlight is rolling out a new 5v5 raid mode to tackle one of the game’s biggest criticisms.

In a recent Twitter post, Wildlight stated, “You asked, we listened,” while sharing a brief trailer for the new mode. A more detailed update on Steam clarifies that this is a limited-time feature rather than a permanent addition. “For the weekend, we are experimenting with a 5v5 Raid Mode,” they noted. “This is a separate playlist and not meant to replace 3’s.”

Critics have pointed out the slow pace of 3v3 matches and the vastness of the map, which feels sparse with fewer players. The introduction of 5v5 matches aims to inject some energy into the gameplay. Alongside this new mode, there are two other significant changes: “Raids are now 10 lives instead of 6,” and “respawns are slightly longer during raids to allow generators to be planted/defused.”

The developers also mentioned, “As most of you know, we are working on optimizations across the game. Many are in this patch and 3v3 should see good improvements! But… adding 4 more players to the game is not going to improve performance, right? Please keep that in mind as you try 5v5!”

This update arrives as English-language Steam reviews for Highguard have hit a 41% positive rating, marking a shift to an officially “Mixed” response—an improvement from the “Mostly Negative” feedback at launch. Overall reviews across all languages stand at 39% positive, still on the negative side but showing a notable upward trend after a rocky start. The future of Highguard remains uncertain, but the changes are a step in the right direction.

If you’re diving into the shooter, be sure to check out the best Highguard weapons.