Gigantic is a unique blend of strategy, action, and RPG elements that was released on June 23, 2017, for PC and Xbox One. Developed by the team behind the popular Supreme Commander series, Gigantic reimagines the MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) genre with a bold and unconventional approach. Instead of the usual objective of destroying the enemy’s base, players focus on controlling and protecting their team’s massive Guardian—a colossal, AI-controlled monster that serves as the central point of contention in every match.
Gameplay and Mechanics
In Gigantic, players are divided into teams of five, each selecting from a roster of over 20 distinct heroes. These heroes fall into 10 different classes, including Bruisers, Summoners, Healers, and Tanks, each offering a unique set of abilities and playstyles. The core gameplay revolves around upgrading your characters during matches, allowing for dynamic and evolving strategies. Players can also personalize their characters with cosmetic upgrades, either through in-game currency or microtransactions.
What truly sets Gigantic apart is the inclusion of the Guardians. Each team’s Guardian is a massive, AI-controlled entity that only engages in combat when the enemy team is in range. The Guardians are not only visually impressive but also mechanically significant—each hit from a Guardian can reshape the battlefield. The ultimate objective is to destroy the enemy’s Guardian while protecting your own, with the game’s progression featuring several milestones that trigger dramatic events, including the climactic The Clash, where the two Guardians battle head-on, altering the map and gameplay dynamically.
The Clash
During a match, teams must reach specific milestones to trigger The Clash, a pivotal moment where the Guardians face off. This event is not only a spectacle but also a game-changing mechanic, as it reshapes the environment and creates new opportunities for both offense and defense. The Clash emphasizes the sheer scale and power of the Guardians, reinforcing the game’s theme of epic, large-scale combat.
Gigantic was designed to be a strategic and team-based experience, requiring coordination, adaptability, and a deep understanding of each hero’s abilities. The game also featured a rich and immersive world, with a story and setting that revolved around the ancient and powerful Guardians, who are central to the game’s lore.
Platforms and Availability
Gigantic was available on PC and Xbox One at the time of its release. However, it is important to note that the game officially shut down in August 2018. The servers were permanently closed, and players can no longer access the game online. An official shutdown notice was published on the ArcGames website, confirming the end of the game’s active service.
Despite its closure, Gigantic remains a notable entry in the MOBA genre, praised for its innovative mechanics and ambitious vision. With a Metacritic score of 75.00, it received generally positive reviews for its creativity and gameplay, though its longevity was limited by the challenges of maintaining an online multiplayer experience.
Gigantic appeals to fans of strategy and action RPGs who enjoy unconventional gameplay and cooperative team play. Its unique take on the MOBA format and the presence of massive, dynamic Guardians make it a memorable, if short-lived, addition to the genre.
