The gaming industry witnessed an unexpected phenomenon during the pandemic as Splitgate, a first-person shooter developed by 1047 Games, skyrocketed in popularity. Originating from a college dorm room project, this game introduced unique portal mechanics that allowed players to warp between different locations on the map. Despite minimal marketing efforts, Splitgate garnered millions of downloads and a substantial player base. However, just over a year after its success, the developers decided to halt updates for the original game to focus on crafting a more ambitious sequel. Now, with Splitgate 2's alpha release approaching, the team aims to redefine the genre with innovative gameplay modes and refined mechanics.
During the early days of the pandemic, while many were turning to video games for entertainment, 1047 Games quietly honed Splitgate, blending arcade-style action with unprecedented portal-based movement. After two years of development, the game launched in 2021, quickly becoming a social media sensation. The studio's CEO, Ian Proulx, acknowledged the overwhelming response, which saw the game peak at 200,000 concurrent players and surpass 15 million downloads. Yet, the team realized that merely tweaking the original wouldn't suffice; they needed to start from scratch to meet evolving player expectations.
To achieve this, the developers focused on creating a AAA-quality experience that could compete with top-tier titles. One of the most significant changes is the introduction of Splitball, a reimagined version of Capture the Flag. Unlike traditional iterations, Splitball uses balls instead of flags, adding layers of strategy and fluidity to matches. Players must score points by placing balls on their podiums, all while defending against opponents who can steal these balls. This dynamic ensures constant action and encourages teamwork, making each match a thrilling tug-of-war.
The design process for Splitgate 2 was meticulous, with the team drawing inspiration from various sources, including aerial combat scenes from Top Gun. They aimed to balance offense and defense, ensuring portals remain integral without overshadowing other aspects of gameplay. Through extensive testing and feedback, the developers refined every aspect, from map layouts to time-to-kill adjustments. Proulx emphasized the importance of intentional design, stating that every element, from portal placement to sightlines, was carefully considered to enhance the overall experience.
Beyond gameplay improvements, 1047 Games is committed to delivering consistent content updates. Learning from past challenges, the studio plans to offer regular post-launch content, ensuring players always have fresh experiences. Proulx expressed confidence in their live-service strategy, highlighting weekly updates as a key factor in maintaining player engagement. In a competitive market dominated by established shooters, Splitgate 2 aims to stand out by offering something new and exciting.
As Splitgate 2 prepares for its alpha release, the team remains dedicated to listening to player feedback and iterating on their vision. With a blend of nostalgia and innovation, they hope to capture the hearts of both longtime fans and newcomers. The upcoming alpha will be available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the portal-based shooter genre. The future looks bright for 1047 Games, as they strive to create a game that not only entertains but also evolves with its community.