Titanfall-inspired Empulse has a free demo for Steam Next Fest
1047 Games is attempting to rebuild its reputation with Empulse, a free-to-play multiplayer shooter arriving at Steam Next Fest. The game comes exactly one year after the studio’s disastrous launch of Splitgate 2, which significantly damaged the developer’s credibility. Empulse takes inspiration from Titanfall’s movement mechanics while recapturing elements that made the original Splitgate successful.
Early hands-on impressions suggest the game delivers on its core promise: fast-paced, expressive gameplay that prioritizes fun over the typical live service design complexity. The shooter emphasizes straightforward combat mechanics without the burden of extensive monetization systems or progression grinds that have become standard in modern multiplayer titles.
The fundamental challenge facing 1047 Games extends beyond gameplay quality. The studio must convince players who were burned by Splitgate 2’s troubled launch to give the company another chance. With the free Steam Next Fest demo, the developer is attempting to rebuild trust through extended access and direct player feedback.
Empulse represents a critical moment for the studio’s future. The game’s reception during the festival will likely determine whether 1047 Games can successfully pivot away from the Splitgate 2 catastrophe or faces continued skepticism from the community.