Highguard 5v5 Mode Guide
Master the chaotic action of Highguard 5v5 mode. This guide covers everything you need to know about the larger team format, from key differences to optimal team compositions and winning strategies.
Official Status
Launch Date
January 30, 2026 (v1.0.4)
Mode Status
Limited-Time Experimental
Availability
Separate playlist from 3v3
"We heard the feedback! For the weekend, we are experimenting with a 5v5 Raid Mode. This is a separate playlist and not meant to replace 3's."
— Wildlight Entertainment (Official Announcement)
5 Players Per Team
Up from 3 in standard mode
10 Lives Per Raid
Increased from 6 in 3v3
Longer Respawns
Time to plant/defuse generators
No Firing Range
5v5 not supported in practice
Developer Note on Performance
Wildlight acknowledged: "Adding 4 more players to the game is not going to improve performance." Expect slightly lower framerates in Highguard 5v5 compared to 3v3, especially during intense team fights.
What is Highguard 5v5 Mode?
Highguard 5v5 is an expanded team format introduced in the v1.0.4 patch on January 30, 2026. In response to community feedback, Wildlight Entertainment created this experimental mode that pits two teams of five Wardens against each other. The Highguard 5v5 mode runs as a separate playlist alongside the standard 3v3 format, giving players more options for how they want to experience the game.
The Highguard 5v5 mode maintains the core gameplay loop — Defense, Gear Up, Shieldbreaker, and Raid phases — but with significant adjustments to accommodate the larger team size. With 10 players on the battlefield instead of 6, matches become more chaotic and require different strategic approaches compared to 3v3.
Highguard 5v5 vs 3v3: Key Differences
Understanding the differences between Highguard 5v5 and the standard 3v3 mode is crucial for adapting your playstyle. Here is a detailed comparison of how Highguard 5v5 changes the game:
| Aspect | 3v3 Mode | 5v5 Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Team Size | 3 Wardens per team | 5 Wardens per team |
| Total Players | 6 players | 10 players |
| Lives Per Raid | 6 lives | 10 lives |
| Respawn Timer | Standard | Slightly longer |
| Warden Variety | Limited composition options | More diverse team builds |
| Chaos Level | Tactical, focused fights | More chaotic, larger battles |
Developer Note: Wildlight acknowledged that "adding 4 more players to the game is not going to improve performance." Expect slightly lower framerates in Highguard 5v5 compared to 3v3, especially during intense team fights.
Best Highguard 5v5 Team Compositions
Community Recommendations
The following team compositions are based on established 3v3 meta strategies and community tier lists, adapted for the 5v5 format. As Highguard 5v5 is a new experimental mode, dedicated 5v5 guides are still emerging. These recommendations may evolve as the community develops 5v5-specific strategies.
With 5 Wardens per team, Highguard 5v5 opens up new composition possibilities. Here are the recommended team structures for success in Highguard 5v5 mode:
Balanced Composition
The most versatile Highguard 5v5 team comp that works in any situation. Provides damage, defense, and utility.
2 Assault + 1 Destruction + 1 Defensive + 1 Support
Rush Composition
High-damage Highguard 5v5 team focused on quick raids. Sacrifices defense for overwhelming firepower.
3 Assault + 1 Destruction + 1 Support
Fortress Composition
Highguard 5v5 team built for impenetrable defense. Stalls enemy raids while slowly building advantages.
2 Defensive + 1 Support + 1 Assault + 1 Recon
Highguard 5v5 Strategies & Tips
Success in Highguard 5v5 requires adapting your tactics for larger team fights. Here are essential strategies for dominating the 5v5 mode:
Community Strategies
These strategies are adapted from established 3v3 community tactics and general FPS best practices. Since Highguard 5v5 is a new experimental mode, the optimal strategies are still being discovered by the community. Tips may be refined as 5v5-specific meta develops.
Offense Tips
- •Coordinate multi-angle attacks — with 5 players, you can pressure from multiple entry points in Highguard 5v5
- •Use more lives aggressively early to gain map control and deplete enemy resources
- •Stack ultimates for devastating combo plays — Highguard 5v5 allows more ability combinations
Defense Tips
- •Build more walls during Defense phase — larger teams need larger fortifications
- •Assign specific zones to each defender in Highguard 5v5 for better coverage
- •Use the longer respawn timer strategically — stagger deaths to maintain defensive presence
Team Communication
- •Highguard 5v5 demands more callouts — designate a shot-caller for coordinated plays
- •Use ping system extensively to mark targets and coordinate without voice chat
- •Establish roles before the match — who leads raids, who anchors defense
Shieldbreaker in 5v5
- •Shieldbreaker fights are more intense in Highguard 5v5 — bring your full team
- •Consider splitting 3-2 to contest while keeping base pressure
- •The extra players make securing the Shieldbreaker more valuable for raid phase
Best Bases for Highguard 5v5
Not all bases are equally suited for Highguard 5v5. Larger bases with multiple defensive positions work best for 5-player teams. Here are the top picks:
Soul Well
The new base is perfect for Highguard 5v5 with its multiple levels and spacious layout.
Frosthold
Spacious interiors accommodate 5 defenders comfortably in Highguard 5v5 matches.
Bellringer
Multiple towers allow each player to hold a position in Highguard 5v5.
Highguard 5v5 FAQ
Is Highguard 5v5 mode permanent?
Why does Highguard 5v5 have longer respawn timers?
Can I play Highguard 5v5 in the Firing Range?
What's the best team size for Highguard 5v5?
Related Guides
Ready for Highguard 5v5?
Master your Warden and team up for the ultimate 5v5 experience.