Splitgate 2: Kicking Off the Open Alpha
Splitgate 2 is set to launch its open alpha on February 27, bringing with it a host of exciting new features that fans of the original game are sure to enjoy. While this is just the beginning of what the game has to offer, the current iteration already provides a strong glimpse into its future. I had the opportunity to play the game during its second alpha on February 12, where I got a firsthand look at some of the notable additions, particularly the Multi-Team Portal Warfare mode.
Introducing Multi-Team Portal Warfare
The Multi-Team Portal Warfare mode is a significant departure from the traditional four-vs-four format. This new mode features an eight-vs-eight-vs-eight setup on larger maps, turning each match into a chaotic, fast-paced experience. During the playtest presentation, 1047 Games CEO Ian Proulx explained that this mode draws inspiration from Halo’s Big Team Battle and THE FINALS’ multi-team gameplay, with a unique twist: portals. I had the chance to try out Multi-Team Hotzone, Multi-Team Team Deathmatch, and Multi-Team Domination on the Glacier map, a snowy environment that, while not as portal-heavy as some other maps, still provided a compelling experience.
The Glacier Map: Grounded and Chaotic
The Glacier map is a sprawling, snow-covered landscape with multiple objectives that rotate depending on the game mode. The areas around the objectives are what you might expect from Splitgate: jump pads, walls with portals, and plenty of opportunities for strategic maneuvering. However, the gameplay outside of these objective zones feels more grounded and less reliant on portals. It was more like a traditional first-person shooter (FPS) during these moments, with less frequent use of portals and occasional gunfights. This slowed pace might be a bit of a letdown for those who enjoyed the faster, portal-focused action of the original Splitgate, but it’s important to note that this is just one map. 1047 Games has multiple maps in development, so the overall experience should become more balanced as the game progresses.
Sticking to the Four-vs-Four Format
While the eight-vs-eight-vs-eight modes are undeniably exciting, I still find the four-vs-four arena modes to be the heart of Splitgate 2. These modes offer a more calculated and strategic experience on smaller maps, providing ample opportunities to master the use of portals. Whether you’re denying enemy portals or setting up a perfect flank, the four-vs-four format allows for a deeper understanding of the game’s mechanics. The modes I played included Hotzone, Domination, Splitball, and Firecracker, each offering a unique twist on the classic objective-based gameplay.
New Modes and a Casual Twist
Among the four-vs-four modes, the new addition is Firecracker, Splitgate’s take on the classic Search and Destroy concept. Unlike traditional Search and Destroy, Firecracker allows for respawns, giving players multiple attempts to plant or defuse the firecracker. This keeps the mode more casual and accessible while still maintaining the tension and strategy of the objective format. Additionally, there was a more party-like mode called Chaos Team Deathmatch, where players could fly around in low gravity, adding an element of fun and chaos to the mix.
A Solid Foundation with More to Come
The combination of a variety of game modes, three playable factions, multiple weapons, and customizable perks, along with the game’s sporty and competitive aesthetic, forms a solid foundation for Splitgate 2. Proulx emphasized that what we’ve seen so far is only about half of the game. Beyond the four-vs-four and eight-vs-eight-vs-eight modes, there are still two major components yet to be revealed, leaving plenty of room for anticipation and excitement. As 1047 Games continues to develop and refine Splitgate 2, the future looks promising for both new and returning players.
