Highguard Beginner Guide
New to Highguard? This comprehensive beginner guide will teach you everything you need to know about Wildlight Entertainment's 3v3 PvP raid shooter. From match phases to warden abilities, we'll cover all the fundamentals to help you start winning matches in Highguard.
What is Highguard?
Highguard is a free-to-play 3v3 PvP Raid Shooter developed by Wildlight Entertainment — the veteran team behind Apex Legends and Titanfall. Released on January 26, 2026, Highguard combines hero shooter mechanics with strategic base building in a unique gameplay experience. If you're reading this Highguard beginner guide, you're about to discover one of the most innovative shooters of 2026.
In Highguard, two teams of three Wardens compete in attack/defense rounds. Unlike traditional shooters, Highguard matches progress through four distinct phases: Defense, Gear Up, Shieldbreaker, and Raid. Your ultimate goal in Highguard is to destroy the enemy team's generator while protecting your own. This Highguard beginner guide will walk you through each phase and teach you how to excel in all of them.
Highguard Gameplay Screenshots
Understanding Highguard Match Phases
Every Highguard match follows a structured four-phase format. Understanding these phases is crucial for any player using this Highguard beginner guide. Each phase requires different strategies and skills, so mastering all four is essential for climbing the ranks in Highguard.
Defense Phase
The Highguard match begins with the Defense Phase. During this time, your team builds walls, sets up defenses, and fortifies your base around the generator. This is one of the most important phases in Highguard because good defenses can make raids extremely difficult for the enemy team.
Highguard Beginner Tips for Defense:
- • Create multiple layers of walls, not just one thick wall
- • Build chokepoints that force enemies into killzones
- • Leave some resources for Gear Up phase
- • Coordinate with teammates to cover all approaches
Gear Up Phase
After defense, Highguard enters the Gear Up Phase. This is your chance to explore the map, collect weapons, find shield potions, and gather resources. Better gear makes a massive difference in Highguard fights — a player with a legendary weapon will significantly outperform someone with common gear.
Highguard Beginner Tips for Gear Up:
- • Prioritize shield potions — they save lives in Highguard fights
- • Learn the loot spawn locations on each map
- • Don't ignore Raid Tools like Rocket Launcher or Blast Hammer
- • Upgrade weapons at upgrade stations when possible
Shieldbreaker Phase
The Shieldbreaker Phase is Highguard's mid-match climax. A powerful legendary sword spawns at the center of the map, and both teams fight for control. The team that claims the Shieldbreaker in Highguard gains a massive advantage — the sword can quickly break through walls and deal devastating damage to enemies.
Highguard Beginner Tips for Shieldbreaker:
- • Coordinate with your team — don't fight 1v3
- • Save ultimates for this crucial fight
- • If you can't win it, deny the enemy by dealing damage
- • The Shieldbreaker breaks walls faster than any Raid Tool
Raid Phase
The final phase in every Highguard match is the Raid. Both teams simultaneously attack each other's bases, trying to destroy the enemy generator before theirs falls. This is where all your preparation pays off — good defenses buy time while your attackers push the enemy base. In Highguard, the team that destroys the generator first wins the round.
Highguard Beginner Tips for Raid:
- • Decide as a team: all attack, all defend, or split
- • Use Raid Tools to break walls efficiently
- • Call out enemy positions and coordinate pushes
- • Focus the generator once you breach — don't chase kills
Highguard Warden Classes Explained
Highguard features 8 unique Wardens across 5 classes. Each class has a distinct role in the team, and understanding these roles is essential for this Highguard beginner guide. Choosing the right warden for your playstyle and team composition can make or break your Highguard matches.
Assault
Atticus, Slade, Scarlet
Assault wardens are the frontline damage dealers in Highguard. They excel at eliminating enemies and leading attacks. If you enjoy aggressive gameplay and getting eliminations, Assault wardens are perfect for your Highguard experience. Atticus is recommended for new players in this Highguard beginner guide.
Destruction
Redmane
Destruction wardens specialize in breaking through enemy defenses. Redmane is the only Destruction warden in Highguard currently, and he's essential for any team that wants to raid effectively. His abilities demolish walls faster than any weapon in Highguard.
Defensive
Kai, Una
Defensive wardens protect teammates and control areas. Kai's Ice Wall can block entire corridors, while Una's Forest Wisps provide area denial. If you prefer supporting your team and making smart plays, Defensive wardens are great choices for this Highguard beginner guide.
Support
Mara
Support wardens keep the team alive with shields and utility. Mara's Soul Armor can turn losing fights into wins by providing overshields at critical moments. Every Highguard team benefits from having a Support warden.
Recon
Condor
Recon wardens gather intel on enemy positions. Condor's Eyes in the Sky reveals enemies across the map, giving your team crucial information. In Highguard, information wins games — knowing where enemies are lets you make better decisions at every phase.
Highguard Weapons for Beginners
Understanding Highguard weapons is crucial for success. Every warden can carry 2 primary weapons plus 1 Raid Tool. Here's a quick overview of weapon types for this Highguard beginner guide:
Assault Rifles
Vanguard, Dynasty — versatile, good at all ranges. Best for beginners in Highguard.
SMGs
Viper, Corsair — high fire rate, close range. Great for aggressive Highguard players.
Shotguns
Kraken, Paladin — devastating up close. Essential for indoor Highguard fights.
Sniper
Ranger — long range, high skill. Rewards precision aiming in Highguard.
LMG
Big Rig — high capacity, suppression. Excellent for sustained Highguard fights.
Raid Tools
Rocket Launcher, Blast Hammer, Zipline Gun — essential for Highguard raids.
Top 10 Highguard Beginner Tips
These Highguard beginner tips are gathered from experienced players and will help you improve faster. Follow these guidelines and you'll be winning more matches in Highguard in no time.
Use voice chat or pings to coordinate attacks and callouts in Highguard. Communication wins games.
Better weapons and shields make a huge difference in Highguard fights. Always loot efficiently.
Quality chokepoints beat quantity. Layer your Highguard defenses strategically.
A well-timed ultimate can turn a losing Highguard fight into a win.
Master their abilities before trying others in Highguard.
Enemies in Highguard often attack from unexpected angles. Stay aware.
In Highguard, destroying the generator wins — not getting the most kills.
Learn Highguard maps and mechanics before jumping into ranked.
Every Highguard death teaches you something. Review what went wrong.
Highguard is a game. Enjoy the experience and improvement will follow.
Highguard Beginner FAQ
Is Highguard free to play?
What is the best warden for beginners in Highguard?
Does Highguard have crossplay?
How long does a Highguard match take?
Related Guides
Ready to Dominate in Highguard?
Now that you've read this Highguard beginner guide, it's time to put your knowledge into action!