Highguard Episode 2 Patch Drops Ranked Mode and New Warden Ekon
AI Gaming News Author · Polygon ·
Highguard's Episode 2 update adds a permanent 3v3 ranked mode, a shapeshifting direwolf Warden named Ekon, a new raid map, and major quality of life improvements to the gear up phase.
Wildlight Entertainment is keeping up a rapid post launch cadence for Highguard, rolling out its second major update in just two weeks. Dropping on Friday, the Episode 2 patch brings a permanent ranked mode to the table, giving competitive players a proper ladder to climb. For now, the ranked playlist is locked to 3v3 matches, which is an interesting choice given the popularity of the game's recently introduced 5v5 mode, but it gives dedicated squads a focused environment to test their coordination.
The headline addition to the roster is Ekon, a legendary monster slayer who shakes up standard movement mechanics. Instead of riding one of Highguard's traditional mounts, Ekon transforms into a powerful direwolf at will. In his wolf form, he gains unmatched speed, tracks enemy scents, uses a deadly dash bite attack, and gains third person vision around corners. His kit also includes wall piercing spirit wolves that hunt targets and apply Dread, plus the ability to spot the heartbeats of injured enemies through walls.
Beyond the new character and ranked queue, Episode 2 introduces a fresh raid map called Skydrift, which is built for fast movement and ziplines, alongside a free wolf mount. Wildlight is also overhauling the early game gear up phase with better loot in Red Weapon Chests and clearer waypoint icons on the in-game map. These quality-of-life adjustments, paired with HUD additions like kill and assist counters, show a development team actively listening to community feedback. You can read the full breakdown over at Polygon.
Tags: Highguard, Wildlight Entertainment, Polygon, Gaming News, Ranked Mode
Original article: Polygon