The Game Awards closed with an unexpected reveal of a little-known game set to launch next month.

The Game Awards typically wraps up with a highly anticipated sequel, a long-awaited remake, or a major studio’s fresh IP. However, the 2025 event took an unexpected turn by unveiling a completely original game from a new studio that’s deep into development. Highguard is an upcoming shooter crafted by a team of veterans from Apex Legends, Titanfall, and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, and it’s set to launch soon.

Founded in 2021, Wildlight Entertainment has been diligently working on Highguard for the past four years. This free-to-play PvP raid shooter places players in the shoes of Wardens, “arcane gunslingers sent to fight for control of a mythical continent.” Gameplay revolves around battling rival Warden crews for the Shieldbreaker and then raiding and dismantling the enemy’s base, all while navigating airships and teaming up with eagle companions.

“With our first game, we are hyper-focused on creating a new gaming universe of similarly epic scale and quality,” stated Wildlight co-founder and CEO Dusty Welch. Game director Chad Grenier reinforced this vision, highlighting a studio culture centered on creative freedom and design-driven decisions.

Unlike previous years where teased projects seemed light-years away, Highguard is nearly ready for launch. The game is set to release on January 26, 2026, featuring cross-play and cross-progression across PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PS5. This is a refreshing change from the lengthy waits that often follow a big reveal at the Game Awards.

Ending the show with a brand-new IP is a bold move, but closing with one that’s just weeks away from being playable? That’s a significant vote of confidence from host Geoff Keighley, who thrives on delivering for an audience eager for excitement. We’ll find out if Highguard lives up to the hype in less than a month.