Highguard Release Guide: Launch Times, Platforms, and Everything to Know for January 26, 2026

Key Takeaway

• Launch: Monday, January 26, 2026, at 10:00 AM Pacific Time (1:00 PM Eastern Time).
• Platforms: PC (Steam), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S. Confirm final multi-platform timing via official channels.
• Status: Free-to-play. No pre-load confirmed as of January 24, 2026.

On January 26, 2026, the mythical continent of Highguard opens its gates. Developed by veterans from Titanfall 2 and Apex Legends, this free-to-play PvP raid shooter promises a unique blend of hero-shooter mechanics and mounted combat. This guide cuts through the anticipation to deliver the essential facts you need to prepare for your first raid as a Warden.

What is Highguard? Genre, Developer, and First Impressions

For those emerging from the hype, Highguard is a new live-service title from Wildlight Entertainment. This studio was founded by seasoned veterans from Respawn Entertainment, the minds behind the acclaimed movement and gunplay of Titanfall 2 and the battle royale phenomenon Apex Legends.

The game defines itself as a free-to-play PvP raid shooter and hero-shooter. Players assume the role of Wardens, powerful champions battling across a fantastical, mythical continent. The core premise involves team-based objective raids against other players, blending strategic hero selection with large-scale, coordinated PvP encounters.

Early impressions from a closed-play event have been overwhelmingly positive, with particular praise directed at its foundational feel. Attendees highlighted the "gunplay," "competitive aspect," and the "unique mounted combat" as standout features, suggesting Wildlight has successfully translated its expertise into a compelling new fantasy setting.

The Core Launch Details: Date, Time & Global Rollout

Mark your calendars definitively: Highguard launches on Monday, January 26, 2026. Wildlight Entertainment has confirmed a simultaneous global launch, meaning players worldwide will gain access at the same moment.

That moment is 10:00 AM Pacific Time (PT). Servers are scheduled to go live at this time. It is crucial to note that as of January 24, 2026, pre-loading has not been confirmed. Players will begin the download only once the servers are live at launch time.

To ensure you’re ready, here is the comprehensive global launch schedule for January 26, 2026:

• 10:00 AM - Pacific Time (PT)
• 11:00 AM - Mountain Time (MT)
• 12:00 PM (Noon) - Central Time (CT)
• 1:00 PM - Eastern Time (ET) (Note: The correct conversion from 10:00 AM PT is 1:00 PM ET. Disregard any sources listing 12:00 PM ET.)
• 6:00 PM - United Kingdom (GMT)
• 7:00 PM - Central Europe (CET)
• 10:00 PM - Gulf Standard Time (GST)
• 11:30 PM - India Standard Time (IST)
• 2:00 AM (Jan 27) - China Standard Time (CST)
• 3:00 AM (Jan 27) - Japan Standard Time (JST)
• 4:00 AM (Jan 27) - Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST)
• 7:00 AM (Jan 27) - New Zealand Standard Time (NZST)

Platforms, Specs, and Getting Ready to Play

Highguard will be free-to-play at launch. The game is confirmed for PC via Steam, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. While a full multi-platform launch is intended, players should monitor official Wildlight Entertainment channels for final confirmation that all platform releases are perfectly simultaneous.

For PC players, ensuring your rig meets the requirements is the most important pre-launch task. The game requires 25 GB of available storage space. Here are the official system requirements:

Minimum PC Specifications:

• OS: Windows 10/11 64-bit
• Processor: Intel Core i5-6600K / AMD Ryzen R5 1600
• Memory: 8 GB RAM
• Graphics: Nvidia GTX 1060 6GB / AMD RX 580 8 GB

Recommended PC Specifications:

• OS: Windows 10/11 64-bit
• Processor: Intel Core i5-9600K / AMD Ryzen 5 3600
• Memory: 12 GB RAM
• Graphics: Nvidia RTX 2080 8 GB / AMD RX 6650 XT 8 GB

Launch Day Activities and What Comes Next

Launch day is more than just a server flip. Ahead of January 26, Wildlight hosted an in-person sneak peek event for content creators and esports athletes.

The main event for all players begins the moment the game goes live. At 10:00 AM PT on launch day, Wildlight will kick off a showcase livestream. This broadcast will feature a deep dive into gameplay mechanics and, most importantly, will reveal the first-year content roadmap for 2026.

This roadmap is a significant commitment, outlining post-launch plans for new Wardens, maps, raids, and events. It signals the developer's long-term vision and provides players with a clear glimpse of the evolving universe they are about to join.

The launch at 10:00 AM PT is just the beginning. By tuning into the roadmap stream, you're not just downloading a game—you're getting a first look at the evolving world you'll help shape as a Warden. Ensure your system is ready, note your local time, and prepare to claim your mount.