Highguard Episode 2 Adds Ranked Mode and New Warden

Wildlight Entertainment has launched Episode 2 for its tactical shooter Highguard, introducing a competitive ranked mode, a new playable Warden named Ekon, a sky-high map called Skydrift, and several gameplay refinements designed to address player feedback.

The update, which rolled out on February 6, focuses on enhancing the game's live-service elements to foster long-term engagement. At its core is the new ranked mode, exclusive to the 3v3 raid format that defines Highguard's tactical battles. Developers at Wildlight selected this structure over the more common 5v5 setup, stating it offers a "more tactically verified" experience suited for competitive play. Players climb a ladder of seven ranks, from the entry-level Hare to the elite Leviathan, with each rank divided into three divisions. To access ranked, newcomers must secure 10 wins in standard 3v3 matches, while those who met the threshold in Episode 1 gain immediate entry.

Progression emphasizes fairness and motivation. Solo queue participants lose fewer points on defeats and earn bonuses for win streaks and individual kills. Each episode features two splits, rotating map and base pools while incorporating balance...