When Splitgate launched in 2019, it surprised players by combining classic arena shooter gameplay reminiscent of Halo with the portal mechanics inspired by Portal. It arrived at a time when the genre was desperately in need of something fresh, and Splitgate delivered with an innovative concept. Now, six years later, Splitgate 2 is here with a new graphics engine, improved gameplay, and the ambition to compete with the big names in the multiplayer scene. Unfortunately, that same ambition is also its greatest weakness.
The strongest aspect of Splitgate 2 remains its gameplay. Using portals to move around the maps or set deadly traps for your enemies adds a tactical dimension few shooters can match. The gunplay is fast, responsive, and the game consistently runs above 60 FPS. Despite that, the visual presentation is underwhelming, with generic map designs and an art direction that’s anything but memorable.
One of the biggest additions is the new Battle Royale mode, offering team-based matches in segmented zones. While refreshing in concept, the experience doesn’t stand out in a market already saturated with similar offerings. However, the real issue is the progression system. Everything—your character, your weapons—levels up, but with three different factions, mandatory weekly missions, and a paid Battle Pass, progression quickly becomes a chore. To make matters worse, several weapons and game modes are locked behind this system, making the experience frustrating for new players.
Adding to the frustration is a cosmetics store with wildly overpriced skins, ranging from $20 to $50, with little justification for the cost. The absence of a story mode and a near-total lack of music further weakens the experience.
Splitgate 2 has a solid gameplay foundation, but it’s surrounded by monetization systems and progression mechanics that drag down what could’ve been a stellar return. If you’re looking for a multiplayer shooter with a unique mechanic, it can provide several hours of fun. But if you want a complete and fair experience, better options are out there.
Final Score: 3/5