Highguard was already torn apart by potential players just hours after its release. A general sentiment that had been brewing even before the actual release of the shooter. The head of Larian Studios, Swen Vincke, cannot understand the words of this wave and expresses both criticism but also warning words to the player community.
What does Swen Vincke criticize about the criticism of Highguard? Swen Vincke, the CEO of Larian Studios, commented on X about the current sentiment towards the new shooter “Highguard”, which was released only two days ago, on January 26, 2026.
Due to the developers’ decision to remain silent until shortly before the release after the announcement at the Game Awards 2025 many players became suspicious and distrustful instead of developing excitement. Even before the release, there was criticism directed at the shooter, before it could even go live, and this continues to some extent even now.
The way players criticize Highguard deeply troubles Vincke. That players may not find fun in Highguard is not the issue. However, according to his statements, it is no longer criticism but rather condescending words that are no longer constructive but hurtful. And this not only hurts the developers but could also ruin future projects for players:
“If [the creative people who care the most about their games] withdraw because they cannot handle the nastiness, we are all losers, because only those remain who do not care.”
Here you see the trailer for Highguard:
Condescending criticism does not lead to improvement, but to games without passion
How do players harm themselves with this kind of criticism? Vincke explains his opinion by stating that under such condescending criticism from players, it is particularly the developers who suffer, who care a lot about their game. Those who remain are the ones who do not care about their community’s opinions. Players, as well as critics and the press, should therefore be careful about whom they truly scare off with their words.
Remember how nervous you were when you had to present something in front of the class. And how every negative remark hurt you. Be kind to each other, be kind to the people who create things to entertain you. Treat them as you would like to be treated when you have created something.
Swen Vincke on X
How does Vincke envision a good culture of argument and criticism? Vincke explains that he does not want to take away any player’s opinion about Highguard. However, there are other ways to convey criticism to developers and studios rather than publicly and personally attacking them. Good critics would understand that it is easy to destroy things and much harder to build them.
Critics can simply say: “I did not like it” or “I do not think it is well done” or “I think it is not worth the money”. That’s enough. You do not have to get personal just to get some likes.
Swen Vincke on X
Vincke also explains that he does not condone developers or publishers treating their players poorly. Vincke has publicly criticized this multiple times, for which he is highly regarded by the community, artists, and other industry professionals.
He simply advocates for a better culture of argument that is constructive rather than counterproductive: “You do not have to verbally attack the people behind the game to express your disdain. If enough people stop playing games that do not respect their players, the responsible parties will get the message and soon change their course. There are plenty of other games.”
Highguard has so far received a mixed reception among its player base, with opinions varying widely. While some find it overhyped and boring, others appreciate the decisions made during Highguard’s development. Some of our editorial staff at MeinMMO have also gathered their first experiences in the game, including MeinMMO editor Benedict Grothaus: You are all playing Highguard wrong, but you can’t even blame anyone for it
