Highguard Adds Experimental 5v5 Mode as Player Numbers Drop Sharply

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Less than a week after launch, hero shooter Highguard is already making major changes. Developer Wildlight Entertainment has introduced an experimental 5v5 Raid Mode playlist as the game struggles with a rapidly declining player count on Steam.

Highguard debuted with an all-time peak of nearly 100,000 concurrent players, but that number has since dropped below 10,000 during regular play periods. The game currently holds a Mixed Steam rating, with only 43% positive reviews, putting pressure on the studio to respond quickly.

Previously built entirely around 3v3 gameplay, the new 5v5 mode represents a significant shift. Raids now feature more lives, longer respawn timers, and full five-player parties. Wildlight says the mode is temporary and weekend-only, running alongside the original 3v3 playlist.

While some early criticism targeted maps feeling too large for smaller teams, it remains unclear whether the experiment will reverse momentum. Still, the studio has reaffirmed its commitment to the game, recently unveiling an ambitious 2026 content roadmap packed with free updates.

[tradelikepro]

highguard dropping below 10k concurrent so fast lol, 5v5 raid mode seems like a desperate but kinda smart experiment.