Less than a week after its launch, Highguard is experimenting with a major shift in its raid structure. The new 5v5 mode, added in a recent patch, doubles the player count during team-based sieges, introducing longer respawn timers and a more chaotic battlefield. While the change is framed as an optional format—not a replacement for the existing 3v3 setup—the update signals a deliberate response to player feedback and a broader trend in competitive shooters toward larger-scale engagements.
The decision to expand team sizes reflects a growing demand for more dynamic, high-stakes matches. Highguard’s raid mode has always relied on a mix of tactical swordplay and base defense, but scaling to ten players per side fundamentally alters the experience. Respawn delays are extended, forcing teams to adapt to prolonged absences and shifting momentum. For players accustomed to the tighter, more controlled skirmishes of 3v3, this could feel like a deliberate shift toward the kind of large-scale anarchy seen in titles like Team Fortress 2* or Halo’s* Big Team Battles.
Beyond the core gameplay tweaks, the patch also includes under-the-hood adjustments. A motion blur toggle has been added for players who prefer a sharper visual experience, while a new base—Soul Well—has been introduced as part of the rotating map pool. However, developers have cautioned that the increased player load may strain performance, advising users to monitor frame rates when testing the new mode.
The update arrives amid mixed reviews for Highguard’s default 3v3 setup, with some players criticizing its rigidity compared to the fluid, fast-paced alternatives now dominating the FPS landscape. Whether the 5v5 experiment resonates enough to shift perceptions—or if it remains a niche variation—will depend on how well it balances accessibility with the deeper strategic layers the game was designed to emphasize.
For now, the 5v5 mode is optional, leaving the original 3v3 format intact. Players are encouraged to test both versions to determine which aligns better with their preferred playstyle, though the performance trade-offs may influence adoption.
