Summary
- Splitgate 2 introduces three unique factions each with distinct playstyles, resembling class-based systems like Destiny 2.
- Developer 1047 Games expands on the innovative portal-shooting mechanic from the original Splitgate to create tactical gameplay.
- Meridian, Aeros, and Sabrask factions in Splitgate 2 offer varied abilities and equipment, allowing for diverse strategic options.
Developer 1047 Games unveiled the first official gameplay from Splitgate 2, showing off the game's faction system and promoting its competitive qualities. The game is a full sequel to Splitgate, the 2019 competitive shooter with gameplay that revolves around a signature portal-shooting mechanic.
The original Splitgate's novel mechanics excited many players upon its debut in 2019. In Splitgate, players have access to "gates" that they can open, pass through, and shoot through, allowing for a range of tactical and strategic options, as well as pulling off fun physics-based stunts. Players can shoot enemies from across the map thanks to clever gate placement on each Splitgate stage or traverse vast distances to flank enemies. For many, Splitgate was like a combat-focused take on Valve's Portal series.
Splitgate 2 will be a test of how 1047 Games plans to expand upon the original concept, namely by using the new "Faction" system. The official Splitgate 2 gameplay reveal trailer used recorded gameplay from players and descriptions from developers to show off the game's three factions: The agile Aeros, the time-traveling Meridian, and the powerful Sabrask. Each faction corresponds roughly to a player class in other games, giving access to unique powers and equipment that can change their tactics, emphasizing the stylized vibe shown off in the Splitgate 2 cinematic trailer.
Splitgate 2 Official Gameplay Reveal Details Three Distinct Factions
Of the three factions revealed for Splitgate 2, each supports a different playstyle. The Aeros faction focuses on high-mobility play, combining agile movement with an exclusive mobile gate mechanic to instantly flank enemies. Their ability to sprint and reload more quickly than other faction players enables a high-speed, aggressive playstyle. Meridian faction players are more tactical, allowing them to excel in both solo encounters and in a team support-focused role. Meridian players can see their team's health and use "Hypersight" to locate enemies behind walls, as well as throw out a "Time Dome" that enhances friendly players and slows enemies that pass through it. Lastly, Sabrask players focus on defense, resilience, and combat power. Their "Smart Wall" blocks incoming fire while letting friendlies shoot through it, helping lock down a key position like control points.
The unique qualities of each faction in Splitgate 2 bring to mind the different concepts at work in a role-based title. Early on, some fans were concerned that Splitgate 2 would be a hero shooter, but developers acted quickly to correct the misconception, emphasizing the notion that while Factions do differentiate different players, the system is closer to that of classes as found in the likes of Destiny 2. Since Splitgate 2 also allows players from different factions to mix freely, team composition and role selection will be more freeform than more strict, "pure" hero shooters like Overwatch 2. Splitgate 2 looks like it'll have a lot to offer for fans of the original, while meaningfully building on what came before, which should help it stand out in the crowded competitive shooter field.
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 70 /100 Critics Rec: 45%
- Released
- June 6, 2025
- ESRB
- teen
- Developer(s)
- 1047 Games
- Publisher(s)
- 1047 Games
WHERE TO PLAY
A sequel to 2019's Splitgate, Splitgate 2 will add new dimensions to its portal-based competitive shooter play with new weapons, equipment, and an all-new Faction system for players to choose from.
- Platform(s)
- PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, PC
