This past Friday, Highguard developer Wildlight Entertainment debuted an “experimental” 5v5 mode, framing it as a transient, limited-time addition to the rotation. However, after diving into several matches, the verdict is clear: this format shouldn’t just be a guest appearance. 5v5 needs to become a permanent fixture of the game.
When I initially tested Highguard in its standard 3v3 configuration, I walked away with two distinct impressions: the mount mechanics are exceptionally fluid and engaging, but the core gameplay loop felt somewhat hollow.
I struggled to pinpoint the missing link until I experienced the 5v5 chaos. The vital ingredient is simple: constant action. Increasing the player count naturally heightens the intensity across the map. In contrast, 3v3 encounters often feel sparse and sluggish, with matches that tend to overstay their welcome. I’ve always gravitated toward the high-octane energy of Apex Legends, and while these titles occupy different niches, I expected Highguard to inherit more of that frantic DNA. Where 3v3 feels a bit too lethargic, 5v5 rectifies nearly every pacing issue that plagued the game at launch.
With ten players in the arena, the gameplay never stagnates. This larger group size populates the game’s expansive raid maps far more effectively than a mere six players ever could. The 5v5 balance hits a sweet spot: it’s chaotic enough to stay exciting, yet quiet enough that you can still pick up the audio cues of an enemy attempting a flank. It eliminates those awkward lulls where teams wander aimlessly after a skirmish, wondering where the next fight will break out. Whether you are hunting the Shieldbreaker or defending your perimeter, the increased density ensures there is always a clear objective within reach.
Perhaps most surprisingly, the larger squad size actually fosters better strategic coordination. In the 3v3 environment, I frequently saw teammates drift off-course, only to be picked off without any hope of a resurgence. Solo-pushing the Shieldbreaker toward an enemy base without support was a common, frustrating occurrence. In 5v5, the safety net is much stronger. There is a significantly higher probability that a teammate will be positioned to provide cover fire or swoop in to stabilize your Soul Orb before the enemy can force a full retreat to base.
Purists who enjoy the intimate, high-stakes nature of 3v3 may find the new mode a bit too crowded. But for anyone who found the original pace a bit too passive, 5v5 is an essential experience—while it lasts. As of now, the mode remains active, though it is officially categorized as a temporary event. We have reached out to Wildlight regarding their long-term roadmap for the mode and whether we can expect it to become a staple of the Highguard experience.
Source: Polygon
