Splitgate 2: A New Era of Portal Combat Arrives in 2025

1047 Games, the creators of the acclaimed "Halo meets Portal" shooter, Splitgate, have unveiled their ambitious sequel: Splitgate 2. Launching in 2025, this free-to-play title promises a fresh take on the fast-paced arena combat that captivated millions.

A Decade of Gameplay

The July 18th cinematic trailer showcased a vision for a game built to endure. CEO Ian Proulx emphasized a commitment to crafting "a game that can last a decade or more," necessitating a re-evaluation of core mechanics to create a "deep and satisfying gameplay loop." This involved reimagining the portal system, ensuring both seasoned veterans and newcomers can thrive. Marketing Head Hilary Goldstein explained the goal: "We rethought our approach to portals, hoping to ensure true Portal Gods could excel, but that no one had to constantly portal to taste victory."

Powered by Unreal Engine 5, Splitgate 2 retains familiar elements while boasting a completely overhauled presentation. Key features include a new faction system, adding strategic depth without transforming into a hero shooter. The game will be available on PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.

Building on a Legacy

The original Splitgate, known for its unique blend of fast-paced arena combat and strategic portal mechanics, experienced phenomenal growth after its 2019 demo release. Its popularity led to server upgrades to handle the influx of players. Following its official release in September 2022, 1047 Games announced that they would cease updates to focus on building "the game fans deserve," hinting at "revolutionary, not evolutionary, changes."

New Factions, Maps, and More

Splitgate 2 introduces the Sol Splitgate League and three distinct factions – Aeros (dashing mobility), Meridian (tactical time manipulation), and Sabrask (brute force) – each offering unique playstyles. While details remain scarce, the developers confirmed the game will not adopt a hero shooter model.

Gamescom 2024 (August 21-25) will offer a deeper look at gameplay, but the announcement trailer already showcased impressive visuals, including new maps, weapons, and the return of dual-wielding.

Lore and Community Engagement

Splitgate 2 will not feature a single-player campaign. However, a mobile companion app will provide access to comics, character cards, and a faction quiz, allowing players to delve deeper into the game's lore and connect with the community.