The wait is finally over. Highguard, the mysterious "PvP raid shooter" from Wildlight Entertainment—the veterans behind Apex Legends and Titanfall—has officially launched today, January 26, 2026. After a controversial silence following its reveal at The Game Awards, players are finally diving into this unique blend of guns, sorcery, and high-octane movement. Whether you are a veteran of the extraction genre or a newcomer drawn in by the pedigree of its developers, the learning curve is steep. This Highguard beginner tips guide breaks down everything you need to know to secure your first victory.
1. Master the Movement Mechanics Early
It wouldn't be a game from the creators of Titanfall without fluid, skill-based traversal. Highguard movement mechanics are the foundation of survival. Unlike traditional boots-on-the-ground shooters, standing still in Highguard is a death sentence. You need to master wall-running and the unique "breaching" mechanic that allows you to obliterate specific walls to create new sightlines and routes instantly.
Don't forget your mount. One of the game's distinct features is the ability to summon rideable creatures like panthers and horses to traverse the massive map. Using your mount to rotate between objectives effectively is crucial, but remember: you are vulnerable while riding. Dismount into a slide to engage enemies with momentum, a classic technique that feels right at home for Apex fans.
2. Highguard Hero Abilities Guide: Choosing Your Warden
Classes in Highguard are defined by "Wardens," arcane gunslingers who blend firearms with magic. Understanding Highguard hero abilities guide synergies is vital for team composition. Since there are no traditional roles, every Warden is a damage dealer, but their utility varies significantly.
For your first matches, we recommend starting with a Warden that offers mobility or self-sustain. Look for abilities that complement the "Raid" structure—skills that can zone enemies away from the Shieldbreaker (the match's primary objective) are top-tier. For example, heroes who can cast frost barriers or area-of-effect fireballs can force enemy squads into chokepoints where your team can wipe them out.
3. Highguard Extraction Strategies and The Shieldbreaker
While billed as a raid shooter, the core loop shares the high-stakes tension of an extraction game. Your goal is to secure the Shieldbreaker to destroy the enemy base's defenses. However, holding the Shieldbreaker paints a target on your back. Highguard extraction strategies in this context mean safely escorting the objective carrier to the summon point for the siege engine.
Key Tip: Never move in a straight line when escorting the Shieldbreaker. Use the verticality of the map. Have one teammate scout ahead on high ground while the carrier moves through the cover of destroyed walls. If you are intercepted, drop the objective and fight; you cannot defend yourself effectively while hauling the heavy artifact.
4. Highguard Best Weapons 2026: Guns Meets Sorcery
The arsenal in Highguard is a chaotic mix of industrial firearms and enchanted relics. Finding the Highguard best weapons 2026 will take time as the meta settles, but early testing suggests that hybrid weapons reign supreme. Look for SMGs that have elemental infusions—these strip magical shields faster than standard ballistic ammo.
For long-range engagements, magical spears and bolt-action rifles are currently dominating open fields. However, don't sleep on the enchanted revolvers; they offer high burst damage and swift reload times, perfect for the frantic close-quarters combat that erupts around siege engines.
5. How to Level Up Fast in Highguard
Progression is key to unlocking new Wardens and loadout options. If you want to know how to level up fast in Highguard, focus on the objective over kills. The game awards massive XP bonuses for capturing the Shieldbreaker and damaging the enemy base structure, far more than for individual eliminations.
Complete the daily "Warden Contracts" visible in the lobby. These challenges often require you to use specific weapon types or traverse a certain distance on your mount. They are the fastest way to boost your account level during launch week and unlock the full roster of heroes.
Final Thoughts
Highguard is chaotic, fast, and punishing, but it fills the void left by recent genre flops. By mastering movement and playing the objective, you'll be dominating the mythical continent in no time. Good luck out there, Wardens.
