While Splitgate has carved its niche as a thrilling, free-to-play arena shooter built on the foundations of portal mechanics and fast-paced combat, many players wonder about its narrative
aspirations. The game’s initial release, and indeed its subsequent development, has heavily emphasized its multiplayer component. However, for those curious about the story that underpins the chaotic battles, the question arises: How long is the Splitgate campaign, and what does it entail?
The short answer is: Splitgate does not currently have a traditional, story-driven campaign.
This might come as a surprise to some, especially given the potential of its unique gameplay. The developers at 1047 Games have been transparent about their focus on refining and expanding the
multiplayer experience, which is the core of Splitgate’s appeal. The game’s narrative, while present, is delivered through a series of “Story Missions” that are integrated into the overall gameplay experience rather than forming a separate, distinct campaign mode.
So, what are these Story Missions, and how do they contribute to the Splitgate lore?
Splitgate’s narrative is woven into the fabric of its multiplayer modes through a series of objective-based missions. These missions often task players with completing specific in-game actions while engaging in classic Splitgate combat. They serve as a way to introduce players to the game’s lore, its characters, and the ongoing conflict within its universe, all without requiring a dedicated, linear campaign playthrough.
How Long Do These Story Missions Take to Complete?
Given the absence of a traditional campaign, estimating a definitive “campaign length” for Splitgate is difficult. Instead, we can consider the time commitment required to complete all available Story Missions.
The completion time for these missions can vary significantly based on player skill, whether they are playing solo or with friends, and their familiarity with the game’s mechanics. However, a rough estimate for clearing all current Story Missions would likely fall within the range of 2-4 hours.
It’s important to remember that these missions are often designed to be replayed for higher scores, better rankings, or to achieve certain in-game accolades. Therefore, the initial completion time is a more relevant metric for understanding the narrative content available.
The “Chapters” of Splitgate’s Story: A Different Approach
Instead of a discrete “Chapters List” akin to a narrative game, Splitgate’s story progression is organized into separate Story Mission sets. These sets often correspond to updates or thematic content releases. While there isn’t a formally numbered “Chapter 1,” “Chapter 2,” etc., you can think of these mission sets as distinct narrative arcs.
As of its current development state, players will encounter Story Missions that introduce them to various aspects of the Splitgate universe, including:
The Genesis of the Arena: Early missions might explore the origins of the titular Splitgate arenas and the technology that powers them. Factional Conflicts: The lore hints at different factions vying for control or influence, and missions likely delve into these rivalries. Character Backstories: While not deeply explored, some missions may offer glimpses into the backgrounds of prominent characters within the Splitgate universe.
The Nature of the “Split” Phenomenon: The core of the game’s premise is the ability to create portals. Missions could explore the origins or implications of this ability.
The Future of Splitgate’s Narrative:
While the current focus is on multiplayer, 1047 Games has expressed interest in potentially expanding the narrative content in the future. Whether this will manifest as more substantial Story Missions, a dedicated co-op campaign, or even a single-player experience remains to be seen. The flexibility of Splitgate’s engine and its unique gameplay mechanics offer fertile ground for narrative experimentation.
In Conclusion:
For players looking to dive into the narrative of Splitgate, the current offering consists of Story Missions integrated into the gameplay, not a lengthy, standalone campaign. These missions can be completed in a relatively short timeframe, offering a taste of the game’s lore and universe. As Splitgate continues to evolve, it’s possible that its narrative ambitions will grow, potentially leading to more comprehensive storytelling experiences in the future. For now, however, the thrill of the portal-fueled arena remains the game’s primary draw, with its story serving as an engaging backdrop rather than a central pillar.
