Highguard gives the most modern live-service gift: surprise refunds and a reminder to stop buying glitter tokens on day one

Multiple outlets reported that the free-to-play shooter Highguard—already in rough waters—had shut down, and that players on PS5 were seeing refunds for certain purchases. Coverage frames it as the studio effectively closing its doors, with platform-specific refund behavior becoming part of the story.

What does this mean for gamers? It’s a public-service announcement wearing a trench coat: live-service spending is risk. Not “don’t ever spend,” but “understand you’re buying into an ongoing promise.” When the game goes offline, your cosmetics and currency don’t become antiques—you just lose access.

The practical consequence is how players change behavior (again). Expect more people to adopt a “wait-and-see” rule: play for free, enjoy the launch chaos, but don’t spend until the game proves it can survive at least a season or two.

The funniest consequence is the emotional whiplash: gamers will be furious about the shutdown for 20 minutes… and then immediately delighted when the refund hits. “I lost my game, but I gained €12.49—net positive?” It’s like getting your money back for a concert after the band breaks up mid-song.