SPLITGATE : Arena Reloaded, formerly known as Splitgate 2, relaunched on December 17, 2025. The new version removes factions and hero abilities to return to a more direct arena-shooter formula.
Portals still define the matches
Every compatible surface can become an entrance or an exit. A portal can bypass a defense, create a flank or provide access to high ground.
Seeing an opponent does not mean that opponent is safe. Attacks can come from the side, above or through a newly opened portal. Accuracy remains important, but positioning and map awareness matter just as much.
This combination gives the duels a distinctive tension. The relaunch also puts weapons, equipment, portals and movement back in the foreground, making matches easier to read for players who found the previous formula too cluttered.
A broader selection of modes
Classic modes include Team Deathmatch, King of the Hill and Domination. Gun Game, Shotty Snipers and Teabag Confirmed complete the selection.
Season 2 adds two arenas, races, the Orion plasma rifle, Laser Tag and Classic Arena Ranked. The carbine pistol is the starting weapon in this ranked mode.
Races ask players to collect numbered balls in the correct order, with times recorded on leaderboards. The mode also supports maps created in The Lab.
Arena Royale expands the scale to 24 players, with credits, weapon upgrades and events such as Hotzone, Splitball and Firecracker. The April 3, 2026 hotfix returned the mode to teams of four, showing that the selection is still being adjusted.
the latest game newsSettings that favor a stable image
On PC, start in fullscreen mode and prioritize a stable frame rate. If performance drops, lower post-processing, visual effects, reflections and portal quality. Reducing the portal frame rate can also help when fights become uneven.
DLSS or FSR may raise the frame rate, while frame generation can add latency. That trade-off should be checked before leaving it enabled.
With a mouse, begin with moderate sensitivity and adjust it in the firing range. On a controller, test aim assist, vibration and dead zones. The April 3, 2026 hotfix corrected aim assist in the training area.
Settings vary by platform
| Platform | Recommended setting | Point to watch |
|---|---|---|
| PC | Aim for a stable frame rate. Add DLSS or FSR if necessary. | Portals, reflections and effects can cause fluctuations. |
| PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S | Prioritize performance mode when available. | Motion clarity matters more than shadow quality. |
| PlayStation 4 and Xbox One | Lower your visual expectations. | The developer also announces optimizations for these consoles. |
| Steam Deck | Start with the default configuration. | Reduce effects if the frame rate varies. The virtual keyboard may be necessary. |
Progression gives reasons to return
The 75 Rookie levels introduce weapons and equipment while unlocking customization items. Challenger levels extend to 1,000 tiers divided into ten prestige ranks.
Each match advances your career, weapons or associated challenges. Proelium unlocks cosmetic variants in a rotating store. Weapons also have their own levels, attachments and camos.
Season 2 adds more than 100 rewards, two arena maps, Orion, races, Laser Tag and additional leaderboards. That is a solid foundation for a free-to-play game, but it does not replace a campaign. No narrative content is announced here.
Performance still needs live verification
1047 Games has reworked portal rendering and cites improved shader precalculation as well as weapon rendering adapted to distance. The developer also announces fewer stutters on PC and targets 60 frames per second on older consoles.
These remain version targets rather than a substitute for an independent benchmark on every configuration.
The relaunch’s new name can still confuse listings and discussions. Cross-play helps fill queues, but player numbers vary by time and platform.
The Steam page displayed a mixed overall rating on August 4, 2026, although the recent trend was more favorable. Confidence therefore remains fragile.
The return of races and the arrival of Arena Royale show that the formula is still being refined. The temporary move to duos, followed by the return to teams of four, reinforces that impression.
Verdict: try Splitgate 2 now if portals appeal to you. Progression is clearer and Season 2 adds more activities. Its longer-term value nevertheless depends on an active community and regular adjustments. Purchases remain optional and concern cosmetics.
To compare other competitive experiences, visit the esports section and the gaming articles. official Steam page lets you download the game, while official performance guide details the technical settings.
For upcoming updates, also consult official Season 2 patch notes and official FAQ. To keep following the topic, see our article on [Test] Nothing To Declare: does the Steam demo allow you to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I change Splitgate 2 settings on PC?
Open the video options from the main menu. Start with fullscreen mode and a stable frame rate.
Which options should I lower first?
Lower post-processing, effects, reflections, portal quality and portal frame rate.
Do DLSS or FSR add latency?
They can increase frames per second. Frame generation can also add latency.
Which controller setting should I check first?
Check aim assist, vibration and dead zones. Test each change in the firing range.
How do I improve with portals?
Learn the compatible surfaces and use portals to create angles. Positioning matters as much as accuracy.
Verified sources
These links verify the key information used in this article.
- store.steampowered.com: Official Steam listing published on 2025-05-22 and consulted on 2026-08-04: confirms the current name, free-to-play model, developer 1047 Games, cross-platform multiplayer and the availability of Season 2
- splitgate.com: Official FAQ from 1047 Games, publication date not displayed, consulted on 2026-08-04: confirms that SPLITGATE : Arena Reloaded replaces Splitgate 2, the 2025-12-17 relaunch, the platforms and PC specifications
- splitgate.com: Official Season 2 patch notes published on 2026-03-27: verify the new modes, maps, Orion plasma rifle, races, performance updates and Battle Pass.
- x.com: Post from the official Splitgate account on X dated 2026-03-24: presents the Orion plasma rifle and supplements the official information about Season 2 content.
