Highguard, the latest sensation in the gaming world, has already captured the attention of players globally since its release on January 26, 2026. Despite being fresh on the scene, Wildlight Entertainment has swiftly responded to player feedback by launching the first major patch, Highguard 1.0.4. This update introduces significant changes aimed at enhancing the gaming experience and addressing initial criticisms.
The update does not introduce new Highguard Wardens or weapons, but it does bring a limited-time mode and numerous quality-of-life improvements that promise to enrich the overall gameplay. Here’s a comprehensive look at the new features and changes included in the Highguard 1.0.4 update.
Introducing the 5v5 Mode
One of the most notable additions is the Experimental 5v5 game mode. Previously, players expressed concerns that the intricately designed maps felt underutilized in the standard 3v3 format. Wildlight’s response is the introduction of this new mode, which not only tests the game’s infrastructure with more players but also offers a more dynamic and chaotic gameplay experience. With this change, the number of Raid lives has been increased from 6 to 10, and respawn timers have been slightly adjusted.
Console FOV Sliders: A Welcome Change
Field of View (FOV) sliders have become a staple in modern online shooters, and Highguard players on consoles can now rejoice as the 1.0.4 update includes this much-requested feature. Previously locked at launch, the FOV slider can now be adjusted up to 110, enhancing players’ peripheral vision and situational awareness, especially during intense battles at Highguard Shieldbreaker locations.
New Base Construct: The Soul Well
Adding to the strategic depth of the game, Wildlight has introduced a new base construct known as the Soul Well. Described as a “dark relic from a lost age,” this base is now part of the rotation for all game modes. Its unique layout demands innovative tactical raids and fortification strategies, offering players fresh challenges and opportunities for strategic gameplay.
Gameplay and Performance Enhancements
Input Toggles for Enhanced Control
The update also brings new input options, allowing players to toggle Crouch instead of holding it. For PC players, the Aim Down Sights (ADS) can also be toggled, although developers caution that this feature might be disorienting for controller users, hence its PC exclusivity for now.
Advanced Video and Performance Scaling
Highguard 1.0.4 introduces advanced video settings, providing players with individual toggles for Chromatic Aberration, Bloom, and Anisotropic Materials. This level of customization is invaluable for players on lower-end hardware, allowing them to adjust the “View Distance Quality” setting to reduce CPU and GPU load. Furthermore, PC players using DLSS can now select specific presets for a more tailored upscaling experience.
“Players can now turn Global Illumination off, and setting shadows to low will automatically disable Volumetric Fog, aiding those struggling to meet system requirements.”
These enhancements are designed to optimize performance and ensure that a wider range of players can enjoy Highguard without compromising on quality.
Looking Ahead
The release of the Highguard 1.0.4 update marks a significant step in Wildlight Entertainment’s commitment to refining and expanding the game based on player feedback. As the gaming community continues to explore these new features, it will be interesting to see how these changes impact the overall player experience and the game’s future development.
With a roadmap already set for 2026, players can look forward to more updates and innovations. The introduction of the 5v5 mode and other enhancements demonstrates Wildlight’s dedication to evolving Highguard into a more engaging and immersive experience.
As players dive into the new 5v5 mode and experiment with the latest features, the question remains: How will these updates shape the future of Highguard? The gaming community eagerly awaits the next steps from Wildlight Entertainment.
