Splitgate 2 refines the portal-powered arena shooter formula that made its predecessor a cult hit, but its evolution feels more iterative than revolutionary. While fast-paced movement, class-based tweaks, and new power weapons add depth, bland maps, underwhelming gunplay, and a forgettable battle royale mode keep it from reaching its full potential.
What Works
Portal Play Still Shines
- One-button portal placement streamlines flanking and escapes.
- Physics hijinks (like slingshotting through portals) remain joyously chaotic.
Movement Upgrades
- Jetpacks feel more powerful, enabling aerial duels.
- New slide mechanic + sprinting creates Titanfall-esque fluidity.
Class System Adds Tactics
- Sabrask (shield wall), Meridian (enemy radar), and Aeros (team buffs) offer light hero-shooter variety.
- Team synergies encourage balanced squad play.
Power Weapons Steal the Show
- Dual machine pistols (combine into a rifle!) and other exotic picks outclass generic ARs/SMGs.
What Doesn’t
Forgettable Maps
- Bright, Fortnite-esque visuals replace the original’s gritty charm.
- Fewer environmental hazards or portal-friendly layouts.
Uninspired Gunplay
- Standard weapons (assault rifles, SMGs) feel cookie-cutter.
- Melee/shield meta dominates late-game fights.
Battle Royale Misses the Mark
- Four-zone map lacks unique mechanics (lava/snow are just cosmetic).
- Portals feel tacked on, not integral.
Microtransaction Sticker Shock
- $80 cosmetic bundles at launch sparked backlash (now reduced to ~$35).
- “Splitcoin” pricing still feels steep vs. competitors like Apex Legends.
The Big Question: Are Portals Still the Star?
Surprisingly, no. While portals enable clever plays, many modes (even No Portals playlists) play fine without them. The battle royale especially underutilizes them, reducing their impact to fast travel rather than combat creativity.
Verdict: 7/10 – Fun, But Missing Its Shot
Splitgate 2 polishes its predecessor’s ideas but doesn’t push boundaries. If you loved the original’s portal shenanigans, there’s fun here—but generic weapons, weak maps, and a half-baked BR make it feel like a sidegrade, not a sequel.
Who’ll Love It?
- Splitgate 1 fans craving more portal chaos.
- Arena shooter purists who enjoy jetpack mobility.
Who Should Wait?
- Those expecting a Halo-killer.
- Battle royale enthusiasts (stick to Apex or Warzone).
