Smite developer Hi-Rez Studios has revealed its new game: Paladins.

The free-to-play game is a team-based shooter with strategy elements and card-based mechanics included.

The familiar core gameplay sees players choosing a hero and fighting to hold enemy control points, while defending their own.

Each hero has a different set of weaponry and abilities, as well as a mount for traversing larger distances.

In keeping with the developer's competition and own history, players will also have a customisable Skill Card deck, and can level up with collectible cards.

Said senior producer Mick Larkins, "Paladins is extremely quick, with a great deal of depth in how it blends action, tactics, and teamwork, and we’re excited for gamers to start discovering all it has to offer."

Paladins is set for release sometime in 2016; more information and beta signup are available at the game's official site, and yet more information is expected at Gamescom this week.