Exploring the Unique Blend of Genres in Splitgate
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Introduction and Context
For those interested in trending free games, this article is tailored for you. While shooting games may not appeal to everyone, Splitgate offers more than just gunplay.
As a long-time developer, researcher, gamer, and technical reviewer, I’ve always been fascinated by the diverse reasons why people engage with video games. My primary interest diverges from that of many players; I aim to understand how video games impact cognitive function, alongside my curiosity about the technical elements of online gaming.
Over the years, I have played and reviewed a multitude of standalone and online games. I have introduced several titles on Technology Hits, catering to tech-savvy readers who also enjoy gaming. My analysis covers various aspects, including popularity, stress relief, and controversies surrounding games. Here are three notable examples.
In one article, “Why To Play Rocket League: A Super Explosion of a Game in the United States and Becoming Widespread Globally,” I explored Rocket League through the lenses of players, technologists, and educators, highlighting its significance in the online gaming landscape.
Another title, “Knockout City Not Only Works Your Brain But Relieves Your Stress,” examined how this game not only provides entertainment but also offers stress-relieving benefits.
Lastly, I approached the contentious topic of Grand Theft Auto 5 in “Why Or Why Not Grand Theft Auto 5 Banned: The Dichotomy Between Lovers and Haters Is Massive,” where I provided an unbiased review amidst the heated debate over its banning.
In this article, I will delve into the trending game Splitgate from a distinctive perspective.
Please enjoy.
Review of Splitgate Game
Based on recommendations from my gaming peers, I decided to try Splitgate, as they believed I would enjoy it.
Upon visiting the Splitgate website, I was intrigued by its tagline:
> “Rewire your brain to frag with portals. Use portals to outsmart and outplay your opponents. Flank them from behind. Use momentum to fly through the air to new locations. Or quickly flee from a dangerous position.”
The concept of portals has always fascinated me, particularly in the realms of virtual and augmented reality. This idea piqued my interest right away.
In a general sense, a portal is viewed as a gateway to a new realm. In the digital context, portals aggregate data from multiple sources and present it in a user-friendly format. Over the past two decades, web portals have evolved into significant platforms that enhance users' online experiences.
At first glance, I found Splitgate reminiscent of Halo, a futuristic first-person shooter franchise developed by Bungie and currently managed by 343 Industries and Xbox Game Studios. Players who have previously engaged with Halo are likely to experience a sense of déjà vu when they dive into Splitgate, which I tested on both my Windows PC and Xbox console.
As I played, the unique portal mechanic became apparent. The game incorporates first-person puzzle elements that challenge players to create paths using portals to navigate obstacles and complete levels.
I maneuvered through various portals to launch attacks, shoot opponents, and evade incoming fire. While initially, the shooting aspect felt fairly conventional, the innovative implementation of portals captivated my mind, transporting me into a fantastical realm and away from reality. This transition holds a unique value for cognitive development.
Although many gamers view this experience purely as entertainment, it also facilitates a mental shift, engaging both hemispheres of the brain. The interplay of task-switching, focus, and enjoyment can positively influence cognitive function, promoting neurotransmitter flow.
I have utilized meditation to enhance my focus, and while shooting games might seem counterproductive, the special effects in Splitgate can yield similar benefits for the brain.
After maintaining my concentration for extended periods, I experienced a sense of relief, likely due to enhanced blood circulation and neurotransmitter activity.
According to information on the website, Splitgate entered early access in May 2019 on Linux and Windows via Steam. Despite initial interest, it faced challenges in retaining a stable player base. However, the game launched on Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PlayStation 4 and 5 in July 2021.
After two years of development and console releases, Splitgate saw a significant uptick in players, amassing over 600,000 downloads within a week, which propelled it to trending status.
From a technical standpoint, I was particularly interested in the infrastructure supporting the game. The surge in players took the developers by surprise, compelling them to increase server capacity to accommodate over 100,000 simultaneous users.
This proactive approach is a solid investment in the game's infrastructure for a global audience. To manage server overload, the developers implemented a queuing system that initially caused wait times of up to 30 minutes. However, after scaling their systems, the wait time has been reduced to under a minute, much to players' satisfaction.
In addition to its shooting mechanics, some players compare the game’s design to that of Fortnite, Unreal Tournament, and Rocket League. It is often described as “easy to learn but difficult to master.”
Splitgate features multiple competitive modes, allowing players to rank against friends and earn exclusive rewards at the end of each season.
Conclusions
While Splitgate may appear ordinary at first glance, the combination of shooting mechanics and portal features creates a distinctive gaming experience.
After several play sessions, I realized that this was a truly innovative game that captivated my interest for a significant amount of time.
I’m glad I gave it a try, as it offered a unique experience. If I had to highlight the best aspect, it would be the risk-free trial, which didn’t cost me anything.
You can access the game on the Splitgate website as a beta user or find it on the Steam store. I hope you enjoy it as much as countless other gamers do.
About The Author
Meet Dr. Mehmet Yildiz
Owner and chief editor of Illumination Integrated Publications.
I am a technologist, postdoctoral researcher, published author, editor, blogger, digital marketing strategist, and content developer with four decades of industry experience.
I write articles for Medium, NewsBreak, and Vocal Media. On Medium, I established ILLUMINATION, ILLUMINATION-Curated, ILLUMINATION’S MIRROR, ILLUMINATION Book Chapter, Technology Hits, and SYNERGY publications, supporting over 15,000 writers on Medium. You can join my publications by requesting access.
I share my health and well-being stories in my publication, Euphoria. If you are new to Medium, you can join by following this link.
This story is dedicated to Victoria Ichizli-Bartels, whose remarkable gaming stories inspired me immensely on this platform.