A game's launch can be a make-or-break moment, and for Highguard, it was a bitter pill to swallow. The game's former lead technical artist, Josh Sobel, has shared his perspective on the ill-fated release, revealing a story of disappointment and the harsh reality of the gaming industry.
Highguard's debut at The Game Awards 2025 was a grand entrance, showcasing a magical world of battling Wardens and their mounts. The trailer left many excited, but as Sobel puts it, "we were turned into a joke from the get-go."
The game launched in January, and while it attracted a large player base, it also faced criticism. Issues like map size and the game format sparked complaints, and the studio worked hard to address these concerns with updates and patches. They even made the popular 5v5 mode permanent, but it seemed the damage was already done.
"It was all downhill from the reveal," Sobel shared. He believes the team's fate was sealed even before the game's release, due to what he calls "false assumptions" surrounding the debut trailer.
Sobel explained that internal feedback on Highguard was positive, and the team was confident they had a hit. However, the trailer's reception was a different story. He highlighted the bias in preview coverage, where positive reviews from attendees at events are often overlooked, while negative content gains more traction and engagement.
"The hate started immediately," Sobel said. He locked his social media profile after the trailer's release, as videos mocking his "cowardice" and laughter at his pride in Highguard began to circulate.
"We were turned into a joke, and it was emotionally draining," he continued. Sobel believes the game's failure was partly due to the negative discourse surrounding it, with gamers putting in an "absurd amount of effort" to slander Highguard.
While Sobel acknowledges that gamer culture played a role, he also emphasizes that developers don't solely blame gamers for their failures. It's a complex issue, and one that leaves a bitter taste.
Despite the challenges, Highguard is still operational, with a core group of developers continuing to work on the game. The future is uncertain, but it's a reminder that even with setbacks, the gaming industry can be a resilient and supportive community.
As Sobel reflects on his journey, he says, "Even though it ended abruptly, I don't regret a moment of it."
A game's launch can be a rollercoaster, and Highguard's story is a reminder of the highs and lows of the industry. It's a tale that sparks discussion and leaves us wondering: What could have been different? And how can we ensure a more supportive environment for developers and their creations?
