"Splitgate," with its melding of first-person shooter mechanics and portal technology, already offers a refreshingly intricate combat environment. The potential introduction of an "Instant Kill" ability could drive its fast-paced action to even more exhilarating peaks.

Instant Kill Amidst the Dimension-Hopping Mayhem

1. Conceptual Overview: Within the whirlwind of portal-based combat in "Splitgate", an Instant Kill feature would mean a player can eliminate opponents in a single move, irrespective of their health or shields.
2. Weapons & Gear: The Instant Kill mechanic could be integrated into rare power weapons, specific portal interactions, or as a timed power-up to be picked up on the map.

Rethinking Tactics in the Arena

1. Portal Play Augmentation: The constant threat of Instant Kill could change the way players use portals. Entrapments and ambushes might become even more strategic, utilizing the Instant Kill feature as the final coup de grace.
2. Shift in Team Dynamics: Squads might designate certain players as protectors of those wielding the Instant Kill capability, creating a more layered team strategy.
3. Map Control Importance: If the Instant Kill feature is tied to map pickups, controlling those areas would be paramount. This could lead to intense focal points of conflict within each match.

Reaction from the Splitgate Legion

1. A Spectrum of Opinions: Longtime "Splitgate" fans might express everything from exhilaration at the potential for epic plays to concerns about game balance and skill gaps.
2. Evolving Play Styles: Content creators and competitive players would likely dive deep into new strategies and playstyles, reshaping the meta in the wake of such a feature.
3. Lore Implications: The more story-oriented fans might speculate on how the Instant Kill ability fits within the larger "Splitgate" universe and its tech-centric lore.

1047 Games' Delicate Task

1. Balancing Chaos and Skill: The developers at 1047 Games would need to ensure that Instant Kill doesn't overshadow the skill-based portal play, which is the game's core attraction.
2. Feedback Channels: Given the game's community-driven development, it would be vital for the team to have open channels of feedback to fine-tune any Instant Kill mechanics.

Conclusion

An Instant Kill feature in "Splitgate" would undeniably add another layer of depth and excitement to its portal-driven skirmishes. As always, the key would be in ensuring that such a feature enhances the game's appeal without diluting its core essence. It's a tantalizing prospect that could redefine arena battles in the "Splitgate" universe.