Splitgate is a multiplayer first-person shooter that launched in May 2019, developed by 1047 Games as part of their effort to create an original franchise. Commonly referred to as “Halo with Portals,” the game became an unexpected hit, racking up millions of downloads shortly after release. However, in September 2022, 1047 Games abruptly ended development to focus on rebuilding the game from the ground up for Splitgate 2.

As a result, players began experiencing matchmaking issues, and Reddit threads were soon filled with posts asking, “Is Splitgate dead?” Thankfully, the game wasn't gone for good. Last year, 1047 Games revealed a cinematic trailer for Splitgate 2, a revamped version of the free-to-play shooter that keeps the iconic portal mechanic that made the original so much fun. And the sequel doubles down on the Halo vibes with its take on Forge, the game’s built-in level editor.

A map creator is perfect for longevity

Just today, Splitgate revealed a brand-new map creator for Splitgate 2 called The Lab, which will serve as the game's creative mode, allowing players to build custom maps and game modes. The original Splitgate did feature a map creator, but it offered very limited tools for creators to work with. This time around, 1047 Games made sure that “the community had tools to support the game even if the developers weren't going to do so.”

“Building maps in Halo: Reach is actually the reason I even had aspirations to go into game development… I just remember loving that and spending dozens of hours with my friends making awesome stuff, and it’s something we always wanted to do since the early days of Splitgate.”

Ian Proulx, CEO and co-founder of 1047 Games, source: Epic Games

Giving players the ability to design their own custom maps and unique experiences with friends is one of the best ways to keep a game thriving. We've already seen this in other multiplayer titles like Fortnite, where creative modes have evolved so much that thousands of players now spend time in custom maps if they don’t feel like playing the main game. Keeping the player count strong, no matter what. Maps created in The Lab are set to support up to 16 players.

That's exactly what we expect from Splitgate's The Lab mode: variety to the game. And the fact that they plan to make it fun for everyone, regardless of prior experience with map creation, is even better. 1047 Games is eager to see what the community creates during Splitgate 2's open beta, which launches on May 22 on the Epic Games Store and will remain available until the full release.

About the Author

Hassam Nasir

Hassam boasts over seven years of professional experience as a dedicated PC hardware reviewer and writer.