Splitgate

Starting at $5.65Buy now

Splitgate is a free-to-play, fast-paced multiplayer shooter that features player-controlled portals. This sci-fi shooter takes the FPS genre to a new dimension with its portal mechanics, delivering high-flying, multi-dimensional combat. Evoking memories of the most revered shooters of the past two decades, Splitgate embraces the classic and familiar feel of close-quarters combat while adding a uni…

Genres & Tags

Play Modes

Reviews

92%

Audience ScoreBased on 88,180 reviews

gameplay2,660 positive mentions

monetization122 negative mentions

gameplay
5,603 mentions
47 % positive mentions
49 % neutral mentions
3 % negative mentions
The gameplay of Splitgate has been widely praised for its innovative combination of classic arena shooter mechanics reminiscent of Halo and the unique portal mechanics inspired by the Portal series. Players appreciate the fast-paced, fluid movement and the strategic depth that portals add to combat, allowing for creative plays and tactical maneuvers. However, some criticisms have emerged regarding map design, the effectiveness of the portal mechanic in certain situations, and the overall repetitiveness of gameplay, suggesting that while the core mechanics are solid, there is room for improvement in variety and balance.
- “With its perfect blend of mind-bending puzzles, witty dialogue, and innovative gameplay mechanics, Portal 2 remains one of the most polished and enjoyable games of its generation.”
- “The introduction of new mechanics like moving boxes and using portals adds new layers of depth to the puzzle-solving experience.”
- “The gameplay is buttery smooth, the weapons are fun to use, jetpacks are good, and the portal gameplay is satisfying and raises the skill ceiling.”
- “Now it's best defined as a pile of manure with more battle pass pushing than actual gameplay.”
- “The game itself would be amazing without these hidden communist game mechanics where everybody plays equally unless they keep dropping money on microtransactions.”
- “The gameplay loop becomes repetitive and predictable, leading to a sense of monotony and a lack of strategic depth that could have added layers of complexity to the matches.”
graphics
1,196 mentions
42 % positive mentions
50 % neutral mentions
8 % negative mentions
The graphics of Splitgate receive mixed reviews, with some players praising the vibrant and futuristic aesthetic, while others criticize it for feeling dated or cartoonish. Many appreciate the game's smooth performance and optimization, allowing it to run well even on lower-end PCs, but there are frequent mentions of graphical issues such as blurriness and lack of detail. Overall, while the visuals are generally considered decent for a free-to-play title, there is a consensus that they could benefit from further refinement and modernization.
- “The graphics are stunning, and the gameplay is smooth, ensuring an immersive experience from start to finish.”
- “In addition to its innovative gameplay mechanics, Splitgate boasts a visually striking aesthetic that combines futuristic elements with sleek, minimalist design.”
- “The graphics are amazing, and the mechanics are solid, combining the best of portal, halo, and Call of Duty to create a very unique and fulfilling gaming experience.”
- “The graphics are pretty awful.”
- “The game's graphics look ancient, even when turned all the way up.”
- “The graphics look like they are from the early 2000s.”
optimization
470 mentions
42 % positive mentions
40 % neutral mentions
18 % negative mentions
The optimization of the game has received mixed reviews, with many players praising its ability to run smoothly on a variety of hardware, including low-end PCs, while others report significant performance issues such as stuttering, lag, and inconsistent frame rates. Some users noted improvements in optimization over time, but many still experience frustrating performance problems that detract from the overall gameplay experience. Overall, while the game shows potential with solid mechanics and enjoyable gameplay, it still requires further optimization to address the concerns of affected players.
- “The game runs smoothly on most hardware, looks great and plays nicely.”
- “Well optimized, free-to-play shooter.”
- “The game's performance is optimized surprisingly well considering how detailed the graphics are.”
- “The game caps at 60 fps despite pushing the frame rate limit, huge latency, hitbox registration is wild, ghost shots, graphics are poor, feel clunky, slow poorly optimized and the anti-cheat is still a future concept.”
- “The optimization for this game is terrible.”
- “The poor optimization makes this game nearly unplayable due to how much lag I've experienced in casual mode due to how drastic my frame rate drops and the amount of ping I received.”
humor
410 mentions
100 % positive mentions
0 % neutral mentions
1 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is widely praised, with players highlighting the comedic potential of the portal mechanics, ragdoll physics, and various game modes that encourage playful interactions, such as "teabag confirmed." Many reviews mention the fun of playing with friends, where unexpected moments and chaotic gameplay lead to laughter. Overall, the game is described as a hilarious blend of action and humor, making it a standout experience in the FPS genre.
- “The portal mechanics were the star of the show, offering endless opportunities for hilarious surprises and jaw-dropping plays.”
- “One of my favorite things about this game is the gamemodes, like one time the devs made the hilarious gamemode called t-bag confirmed which is where you kill a guy and t-bag the dead body to confirm the kill.”
- “It's funny to use the bat when fighting lots of enemies.”
- “Not funny, didn't laugh.”
- “The jokes fell flat and felt forced.”
- “I expected more humor, but it was mostly cringeworthy.”
monetization
339 mentions
12 % positive mentions
53 % neutral mentions
36 % negative mentions
The monetization model in the game is primarily focused on cosmetic microtransactions, which do not affect gameplay, allowing players to enjoy a level playing field. While some players appreciate the fair and unobtrusive nature of these transactions, others express concerns about the aggressive marketing tactics and the overall emphasis on monetization over gameplay improvements. Overall, the game is seen as a commendable free-to-play experience, with many players feeling that the cosmetic-only approach is a positive aspect, despite some frustrations regarding the abundance of microtransactions.
- “The monetization model is fair, as these items do not provide any gameplay advantages and are purely cosmetic.”
- “Overall, the monetization system does not intrude on the core gameplay experience and allows players to support the developers without feeling compelled to spend additional money.”
- “Microtransactions are limited to cosmetics; not pay-to-win.”
- “The game feels unpolished but somehow already has a load of microtransactions.”
- “Yes, they’re cosmetic-only, but it’s hard not to feel like the focus has been on monetization rather than on fixing core gameplay issues.”
- “The introduction of aggressive microtransactions and a focus on cosmetic items over substantive gameplay improvements has left a bitter taste among players, raising concerns about the game's commitment to a positive and inclusive player experience.”
stability
299 mentions
19 % positive mentions
2 % neutral mentions
79 % negative mentions
The stability of the game has received mixed reviews, with many players reporting frequent bugs, glitches, and crashes that significantly impact gameplay. While some users have noted smooth performance and minimal issues, a substantial number express frustration over unresponsive mechanics, matchmaking problems, and game freezes. Overall, the game appears to be in a state of instability, with many players recommending caution due to its ongoing issues.
- “The game runs great, smooth gameplay and no stuttering or hiccups.”
- “Great game, very few bugs, runs great.”
- “Gameplay has been butter smooth and bug free, excluding the menu and party system.”
- “The game crashes on launch with an Unreal Engine error and then freezes the system, forcing a hard reset of the deck.”
- “This game is a buggy, memory-chugging mess.”
- “The game is incredibly buggy and it takes forever to load into a match and if you do your weapon skins will not load and your frames will be shit until you have died at least once.”
story
280 mentions
7 % positive mentions
74 % neutral mentions
20 % negative mentions
The reviews highlight a stark contrast in storytelling across different games. While "Portal 2" is praised for its rich narrative and character development, integrating storytelling seamlessly with gameplay, other titles like "Splitgate" and various arena shooters are criticized for lacking any substantial story or lore, focusing primarily on multiplayer mechanics instead. Overall, many players express a desire for more narrative depth and character-driven content in games that currently prioritize gameplay over storytelling.
- “While Portal was a minimalistic affair, Portal 2 ramps up the narrative significantly, blending puzzle-solving with a rich, compelling story.”
- “The story progresses naturally as you move through the test chambers, and it’s this integration of puzzle-solving and storytelling that keeps you invested in the game.”
- “Portal wasn't fun because of the portals; it was fun because it gave the player great controls in an amazing environment with a useful tool which was used excellently to allow the player to solve interesting puzzles to further a fantastic story.”
- “But there's no story or immersion or really any sort of identity to the game, and as a result the initial appeal wore off really quickly.”
- “It works very well but there is no story or lore here in any way, shape, or form.”
- “If you like Halo or Portal without the story, this game is for you.”
music
169 mentions
20 % positive mentions
74 % neutral mentions
7 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with many players noting a lack of in-game tracks beyond the main menu theme, which some find enjoyable but repetitive. While the ambient sound design enhances the atmosphere, players often feel that the absence of dynamic background music during gameplay makes the experience feel flat and less engaging. Overall, there is a strong desire for more varied and energetic music to complement the fast-paced action and improve the game's ambiance.
- “The sound design, from the eerie hum of the machinery to the ambient music of portals pumping during certain story moments, complements the atmosphere beautifully.”
- “The background music complements the fast-paced action, creating an energetic atmosphere.”
- “Music is what really makes the game alive; it shapes the ambience, the style, and really makes you immerse in the game.”
- “The main menu soundtrack in particular grows stale quickly.”
- “The extreme lack of music also plays a part in this lack of identity.”
- “But the minus of the game was, there is no background music when you were in the arena, that's what makes the game look so dull.”
grinding
146 mentions
3 % positive mentions
41 % neutral mentions
55 % negative mentions
The grinding aspect of the game is widely regarded as excessive and time-consuming, with many players feeling it requires an unrealistic commitment, often described as needing "a second life." While some players find enjoyment in the grind, particularly for achievements and cosmetic rewards, others criticize it for being tedious and frustrating, especially when content is locked behind high-level requirements or buggy systems. Overall, the game offers a mix of fun and grind, but the latter can detract from the overall experience for many players.
- “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
- “It's also pretty easy to obtain a decently high rank with little to no grinding.”
- “No grinding required, and all micro-transactions are cosmetic only (plus you can get quite a bit of stuff just by playing).”
- “Grinding for levels is annoying when over half of the content is locked behind an arbitrary level requirement and the XP progression system moves slower than an asthmatic snail.”
- “There is no point in grinding for anything; weapons are limited and the game is dead.”
- “Was 2 tasks away from getting the free skin in the season pass quests and they just updated it after I have been grinding for a month, so now you have to purchase the battle pass to be able to get the once free skin. This is stupid; I won't be playing this game as there isn't any point in putting the hours into the season pass for them to change the outcome.”
replayability
69 mentions
51 % positive mentions
45 % neutral mentions
4 % negative mentions
Overall, the replayability of Splitgate is highly praised, with many players noting its addictive gameplay, competitive nature, and the engaging portal mechanics that enhance the experience. While some reviews mention limitations in variety and a lack of single-player content, the multiplayer focus, regular updates, and community engagement contribute to its enduring appeal, making it a game that players can enjoy repeatedly. Despite some criticisms regarding monetization and player balance, the consensus is that Splitgate offers substantial replay value, often described as "infinitely replayable."
- “It deserves recognition not for what it failed to become but for what it succeeded at - delivering delightful, high-skill FPS gameplay with immense replayability.”
- “The game incentivizes replayability through a ranking system, cosmetic customization options, and limited-time events.”
- “Splitgate is an insanely fun and replayable arena PvP game which combines aspects of both Halo and Portal, allowing for an extremely replayable and infinitely enjoyable experience.”
- “While the lack of a single-player campaign may limit replayability for some, the multiplayer-focused gameplay always ensures a new challenge or strategy to explore.”
- “It's stale and repetitive and holds no replay value, what's worse is that almost anyone you play against is some rank 50-60 and has 400 plus hours and you'll be stomped every game.”
- “In around 10 games, which is a lot, you'll be roughly 1/10th of the way through a level, so yeah... put that into perspective... all in all it's a cool idea ruined by now replayability and a terrible monetization system where literally everything you do is monetized.”
emotional
40 mentions
100 % positive mentions
0 % neutral mentions
0 % negative mentions
The emotional aspect of the game is highlighted by moments of profound impact, particularly in character sacrifices and personal growth, which resonate deeply with players. Many reviews express that the game evokes a wide range of feelings, from joy and nostalgia to heartbreak and frustration, making it a memorable experience. Overall, it successfully combines engaging storytelling with emotional depth, leaving a lasting impression on its audience.
- “The puzzles are clever and challenging, the story is engaging and emotional, and the characters are unforgettable.”
- “It’s a rare gem that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging, and it’s a must-play for anyone who loves video games as a medium for creative expression.”
- “What happened is that I just had a flashback of one of the best moments of my life, and only this game made me feel like that again.”
atmosphere
27 mentions
52 % positive mentions
37 % neutral mentions
11 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere receives mixed reviews, with some praising its sound design and immersive environments that enhance gameplay, while others criticize it for being generic and lacking depth. Players appreciate the energetic ambiance during fast-paced action but express disappointment over a competitive environment that can deter casual enjoyment. Overall, the atmosphere is seen as a blend of engaging elements and missed opportunities, with calls for improvements in aesthetics and sound to create a more inviting experience.
- “The sound design, from the eerie hum of the machinery to the ambient music of portals pumping during certain story moments, complements the atmosphere beautifully.”
- “The overall atmosphere of the game is really cool and I almost always have a good time when I play.”
- “You get a portal and Halo mix type game that’s insanely fun with a relaxed and playful atmosphere; you don’t have to worry about try-hards coming to ruin your day after you just pulled a 10-hour shift and just want to vibe.”
- “While the game's concept is intriguing and initially captivating, the overall experience is marred by a competitive atmosphere that discourages casual play and a shallow gameplay loop that fails to engage players in the long run.”
- “The competitive atmosphere can be intimidating and discouraging for casual players, stifling the enjoyment of the game.”
- “The lack of sound besides gunfire and source engine footsteps makes the game feel very void of atmosphere, not to mention the game being in beta with a battle pass and fully functioning store that is displayed to you every time you launch the game.”
character development
14 mentions
21 % positive mentions
43 % neutral mentions
36 % negative mentions
Character development in the game has received mixed reviews, with many players criticizing the character design as lackluster and overly derivative of Halo, leading to a perception of artistic bankruptcy. While some appreciate the variety and fun aspects of the character designs, the overall consensus leans towards disappointment, noting issues like clunky models and a lack of originality. Despite the polished environments, the character presentation feels underwhelming and uninspired.
- “Fun game, after enough free unlocks I got a little variety for character design.”
- “The character designs are varied and very fun and weird; the maps have a lot of character and style.”
- “From the meticulously crafted environments to the sleek character designs, every aspect of the game's visual presentation exudes polish and attention to detail.”
- “Spitgate is a fun game, but the character design is lacking.”
- “Amazing gameplay, comically horrible character designs but the gameplay tho.”
- “The character design is very lackluster, and looks like the designers were trying to draw from Halo a bit too much, then dialed it back, resulting in almost a cheap paintball uniform.”