Splitgate 2

Splitgate 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the breakout portal-infused arena shooter, has officially launched on June 6, 2025, for Windows PC (Steam, Windows Store, Epic Games Store), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. Developed and published by 1047 Games, this follow-up aims to evolve the foundational "Halo meets Portal" gameplay, introducing new mechanics, modes, and a fresh visual identity powered by Unreal Engine 5. While its launch has been met with a mix of excitement and controversy, Splitgate 2 undeniably seeks to push the boundaries of the competitive FPS genre.

The Evolution of Portals: Development and Vision

After the unexpected viral success of the original Splitgate in 2021, 1047 Games made the bold decision to cease major development on the first game to focus entirely on a sequel. This commitment allowed them to leverage new technologies and incorporate years of player feedback into a more ambitious project. The goal for Splitgate 2 was not just a minor iteration, but a "blockbuster FPS" that could stand as an enduring franchise.

Engine Upgrade and Visuals: Unreal Engine 5

A significant leap for Splitgate 2 is its transition to Unreal Engine 5. This upgrade allows for more detailed environments, enhanced visual effects, and potentially greater stability, though some early player feedback on performance has been mixed. The game retains its clean, futuristic aesthetic, but with a noticeable fidelity bump that aims to elevate the presentation of its fast-paced action.

The Core Loop: Portal-Powered Gunplay and Movement

At its heart, Splitgate 2 retains the exhilarating blend of classic arena shooter gunplay with its signature portal mechanics. Players engage in frantic firefights across various maps, using their portal guns to create two interconnected gateways. These portals aren't just for travel; they are integral to strategy, allowing for:

• Flanks and Ambushes: Instantly reposition behind enemies.
• Rapid Evasion: Escape danger with a quick portal exit.
• Momentum Manipulation: Slingshot across maps using portal-generated speed.
• Sightlines: Shoot through portals to attack from unexpected angles.

Enhanced Movement and Gunplay

Splitgate 2 refines the fluid movement that made the original so satisfying. The combination of fast sprinting, limited jetpacks, and a new slide mechanic provides even more options for agile traversal. Gunplay remains skill-based, rewarding precision aim and tactical use of various weapons. A key technical improvement is the implementation of client-side portals, meaning portals now spawn instantly, independent of player ping, making portal maneuvers feel even more responsive and fluid.

New Frontiers: Game Modes and Content

Splitgate 2 expands upon the original's offerings with a variety of new modes and features.

Expanded Game Modes

Beyond traditional arena shooter modes like Team Deathmatch and Capture the Flag, Splitgate 2 introduces significant new additions:

• Battle Royale with Portals: This is the most notable new mode, aiming to blend the large-scale survival of a Battle Royale with Splitgate's unique portal mechanics. Players can portal between unique "worlds" within the larger Battle Royale map. Early player feedback suggests it is a very fast-paced, "arena shooter BR hybrid," though some have found it chaotic.
• The Lab: A new experimental mode, likely for testing new features or quirky rulesets.
• Ranked Arena: Launched in the first major update (July 3, 2025), offering a more competitive environment for modes like Splitball, Firecracker, and Hotzone.
• Weapon Mastery Challenges: Introduced post-launch, allowing players to unlock exclusive skins (Carbon, Gold, Proelium) by completing specific challenges with each weapon.

Character Classes: A Divisive Addition

A significant and somewhat controversial change in Splitgate 2 is the introduction of three distinct character classes. These classes are presented as avatars of competing corporate factions in the game's lore. While this adds a layer of strategic choice and character abilities, some long-time fans of the original Splitgate, which prided itself on its pure, even playing field (akin to classic Halo), have expressed concerns that this deviates from the original's design philosophy and introduces hero-shooter elements that were intentionally avoided before.

Maps and Ongoing Content

Splitgate 2 features a new array of maps designed to leverage the portal mechanics. The developers have promised regular post-launch content drops, including new maps, modes, weapons, and events, demonstrating a commitment to long-term live service support. An interview with CEO Ian Proulx confirmed plans for more Battle Royale maps and a focus on community feedback for future content.

The Economy and Reception: A Bumpy Launch

Splitgate 2 launched as a free-to-play title, continuing the monetization model of its predecessor. However, its initial weeks have seen both positive player engagement and notable controversy.

Monetization and Player Backlash

Like the original, Splitgate 2 relies on in-game purchases for cosmetics (skins, emotes, charms, etc.) using "Splitcoin." However, the initial launch was met with significant backlash regarding "egregious" pricing for cosmetic bundles, with some valued at around $80 USD. This led to swift community outcry. 1047 Games quickly responded by slashing prices and issuing refunds to affected players, acknowledging the feedback and stating a commitment to more fair pricing. The game also features a seasonal Battle Pass for progression and rewards.

Mixed Reception and Layoffs

Despite the high anticipation, Splitgate 2 launched to "Mixed" reviews on Steam. While many players praise the core gunplay, fluid movement, and the sheer fun of portal mechanics, criticisms often center on:

• Balance Concerns: Some players feel portals are less impactful on certain new maps compared to the original.
• Battle Royale Implementation: While a major feature, it has been described as "chaotic" or "half-baked" by some.
• Class System: As mentioned, this is a divisive change for some long-term fans.
• Initial Monetization: The aggressive pricing left a negative first impression.
• Server Stability: Some players reported lag and frame drops, particularly in the Battle Royale mode. Adding to the challenges, 1047 Games announced layoffs affecting "a small group of valued staff" shortly after launch. The co-founders, Ian Proulx and Nicholas Bagamian, have opted not to take salaries during this period, stating a focus on "redirecting resources to build the best game for our players" and a commitment to the "next phase of the project." This indicates ongoing efforts to address player feedback and stabilize the game.

Final Verdict: A Promising Portal, A Challenging Road Ahead

Splitgate 2 arrives with the ambition of cementing the portal-shooter genre as a mainstream contender. It builds upon the original's innovative foundation with a powerful new engine, expanded game modes including a Battle Royale, and refined mechanics. The core thrill of outmaneuvering opponents with perfectly placed portals and precise gunplay remains as satisfying as ever. However, the game faces significant hurdles. The controversial introduction of character classes, coupled with a rocky monetization launch and recent layoffs, suggests a turbulent start. The challenge for 1047 Games will be to consistently deliver on their promise of ongoing content and responsive community engagement, leveraging the strong core gameplay to overcome initial missteps and truly build an enduring franchise. For fans of fast-paced, skill-based shooters with a unique twist, Splitgate 2 offers a compelling, if currently imperfect, glimpse into the future of the genre. It's a free download, so if you're curious, there's no harm in leaping through a portal and finding out for yourself.