The gaming world is buzzing with rumors about Highguard, the upcoming hero shooter game from Apex Legends and Titanfall developers. But here's the shocker: Did Highguard really pay for its controversial Game Awards finale slot?
The game's appearance at the prestigious awards show sparked intense speculation. Many believed that Highguard's developers must have spent a fortune to secure the coveted finale slot, a prime opportunity for any game to make a splash. But the reveal didn't go as planned, leaving a sour taste in the mouths of viewers and industry insiders alike.
However, sources reveal a surprising twist: Highguard didn't pay a dime for that slot. Showrunner Geoff Keighley, it seems, was genuinely impressed by the game and offered them the spot. This revelation, initially reported by Imran Khan, has been confirmed by multiple sources. But this is where it gets controversial—was it a wise decision?
Some critics argue that Keighley's choice to feature Highguard was a mistake, suggesting that he set the game up for failure. But was it really a malicious move? It's hard to believe that Keighley, a respected figure in the industry, would intentionally sabotage a game. It's more likely that he genuinely wanted to showcase a game he believed in. The decision to accept the offer was ultimately up to Highguard's developers, Wildlight, who clearly had faith in their product.
With the release date set for January 26, 2026, just around the corner, Highguard has maintained an unusual silence, with no additional marketing efforts to speak of. This strategy has left many scratching their heads, especially considering the game's underwhelming reveal. Typically, developers would ramp up marketing to build hype and explain the game's unique features. But Highguard's approach remains a mystery.
Despite the lack of marketing, Highguard has one advantage—it's free-to-play. This accessibility could encourage players to give it a try, especially with its unique 'raid' shooter concept. However, the game's trailer failed to impress, and the market is already saturated with hero shooters.
As we await Highguard's release, the question remains: Will it be a success or another casualty in the competitive gaming industry? Only time will tell. And this is the part most people miss—the impact of industry influencers like Geoff Keighley on a game's fate. Was his decision truly unbiased? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
