Splitgate 2 returns to beta for major rework amid layoffs

On June 6, 2025, 1047 Games launched Splitgate 2. Now, less than two months later, the developer is pulling it back for a major overhaul. Alongside this decision comes the shutdown of Splitgate 1 servers and the layoff of 45 staff members.

Today, 1047 announced plans to temporarily scale back support for its newly released title while focusing on what it calls a complete rework of Splitgate 2. The game will remain playable and receive its planned Chapter 3 update with minor fixes, but the current version as players know it is effectively ending.

This interim period will last until early 2026 when the studio pledges to reintroduce the game with substantial improvements.

A Troubled Launch

The decision comes amid significant challenges since launch. Splitgate 2 debuted to mixed reviews, faced immediate controversy, and saw dramatic player drop-off. A glance at the game’s subreddit reveals overwhelming criticism - from performance complaints to memes about its struggling player base.

CEO Ian Proulx acknowledges the issues, citing a revealing Reddit thread titled "If you've stopped playing tell me why" that catalogued widespread player grievances. He admits the current version feels more like "a beta than a launched product."

"There are bugs and missing features that should be in a finished product," Proulx states. "It's time for a reset."

Community-Driven Changes

While praising Splitgate 2's core gunplay and movement mechanics, Proulx identifies three key areas needing improvement based on player feedback:

Basic features like leaderboards and progression systems
Expanded portal mechanics with more available surfaces
Game mode adjustments toward classic arena-style play

The monetization model, another pain point for players, will be simplified come 2026. Purchased items will remain available, though no refunds will be issued. A more straightforward battle pass system is under consideration.

Development Challenges

Proulx attributes the rushed launch to overambition, attempting too many modes (arena, battle royale, map creator) simultaneously rather than perfecting fewer elements. The studio's excessive secrecy during development also limited valuable feedback.

With Splitgate 1 servers shutting down next month, 1047 faces tough financial decisions. The recent layoffs (45 employees, 28% of staff) and termination of legacy server support reflect necessary cost-cutting measures, though Proulx maintains the studio remains financially viable for this overhaul period.

Rebuilding Trust

The road ahead remains challenging. The initial launch's controversies - from ill-considered marketing stunts to pricing missteps - damaged community trust. While Proulx has apologized and removed problematic microtransactions, regaining player confidence will require tangible improvements.

After releasing Chapter 3, 1047 will enter a development quiet period until early 2026. The smaller team faces pressure to deliver the game players expected, with no guarantee the community will return after this hiatus.

"We've been through darker days," Proulx reflects. "This industry is brutal, but we're not quitting. We love this game and will do whatever it takes to improve it."