Splitgate 2: A New Era of Portal Combat Arrives in 2025
1047 Games, the creators of the popular "Halo meets Portal" shooter Splitgate, has unveiled its highly anticipated sequel: Splitgate 2. Launching in 2025, this free-to-play title promises a fresh take on the fast-paced, portal-based arena combat that captivated millions.
A Familiar Foundation, Reimagined
The July 18th cinematic trailer showcased a significant evolution. While retaining core Splitgate mechanics, the sequel leverages Unreal Engine 5 for a visually stunning and gameplay-refined experience. CEO Ian Proulx emphasized the goal of creating a game with lasting appeal, a decade or more. This ambition drove a re-evaluation of the portal system, aiming for both accessibility and mastery. Hilary Goldstein, Head of Marketing, highlighted a redesigned portal mechanic to provide a more balanced and engaging experience for all skill levels.
Splitgate 2 will feature a new faction system, adding strategic depth without transforming into a hero shooter. Expect a completely fresh feel, despite the familiar core gameplay. Platforms include PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.
Building on a Legacy
The original Splitgate exploded in popularity after its demo release, attracting 600,000 downloads in a single month. Its success led to server upgrades to handle the immense player base. After a period in early access, the original Splitgate officially launched on September 15, 2022, before development ceased to allow for the creation of Splitgate 2.
Factions, Maps, and More
The Sol Splitgate League takes center stage, introducing three distinct factions: Aeros (dash-focused mobility), Meridian (tactical time manipulation), and Sabrask (brute force). These factions add strategic layers without compromising the core arena shooter experience.
While full gameplay details remain under wraps until Gamescom 2024 (August 21-25), the trailer offers a tantalizing preview. The developers confirmed the authenticity of the showcased maps, weapons, and even the return of dual-wielding.
A Deeper Dive into Lore
Splitgate 2 will not feature a single-player campaign. However, a companion mobile app will provide access to comics, character cards, and even a faction quiz to determine your ideal playstyle. This app offers a rich narrative experience for those eager to explore the game's lore.