Nostalgia Meets Innovation: Splitgate 2's Battle Royale Mode
Ian Proulx, CEO of 1047 Games, took the stage at Summer Game Fest with a bold statement: "I grew up playing Halo, and I'm tired of playing the same Call of Duty every year. And I wish we could have Titanfall 3." His sentiments resonated with many as he unveiled the surprise addition to Splitgate 2: a battle royale mode that aims to revitalize the online shooter genre. Proulx emphasized the team's goal to create something fresh by blending the tactical depth of arena shooters like Halo with the scale and intensity of modern titans. While the battle royale mode is now live and free-to-play, it feels like an odd mix of nostalgia and trend-chasing. The game's round-based modes lean into more competitive play, which might alienate casual fans of the classic Halo experience. However, the inclusion of portals adds a unique twist that could set Splitgate 2 apart. The game's attempt to balance multiple influences—Halo, Call of Duty, and even Apex Legends—feels a bit scattered. While it pays homage to the past, it risks losing its identity by trying to appeal to too many audiences. Still, Proulx's passion for the genre shines through. Splitgate 2's battle royale mode is an intriguing experiment, offering players a taste of what could be the future of shooters—if they can manage to avoid relying on overused formulas and truly innovate. As someone who longs for the glory days of social gaming, Proulx's vision is both inspiring and bittersweet. Splitgate 2 may not be the sequel we were hoping for, but it's a step in the right direction—one portal at a time.