Rematch: The Soccer Game Taking Over Steam with Over 120k Players

Rematch, a new multiplayer soccer game which many describe as "Rocket League with feet," has now attracted more than 120,000 concurrent players during its free open beta weekend on Steam. This impressive turnout suggests the game could be very successful when it officially launches this summer.

Unlike traditional soccer games where you control an entire team, Rematch focuses on 5v5 matches where each person controls just one player on the field. This approach creates a gameplay experience that feels more personal and requires direct teamwork with other players.

The game comes from Sloclap, the studio previously known for making fighting games like Absolver and the kung-fu game Sifu. This marks their first venture into sports games, but the transition appears to be going smoothly based on the beta's popularity.

According to Sloclap's creative director Pierre Tarno, the game aims to be a "football player simulation" rather than a traditional football simulation like FIFA.

While Rematch shares some similarities with Rocket League in concept, the controls are quite different. Rocket League is primarily a physics-based game where players bounce the ball around by driving and flying into it. In contrast, Rematch uses more traditional sports game controls, making it more accessible to players familiar with conventional soccer games.

The beta's success is particularly noteworthy because not all free beta tests translate to commercial success. Games like Concord also had free betas that failed to attract many players, which foreshadowed their eventual commercial failure.

When Rematch officially launches on June 19, it will cost $30. This premium pricing model is intentional, as Tarno believes that "the best way—or maybe actually the only way—to make a commercial success is to just make a very good game." He never considered making Rematch free-to-play, despite that being a popular model for many multiplayer games today.

The full version of Rematch will be available on multiple platforms including PC (via Steam), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. The game will feature various play modes beyond the standard 5v5 matches, including 3v3 and 4v4 quick-play options for more casual gaming sessions.

One of Rematch's standout features is its simplified approach to soccer rules. The game removes fouls, offsides, and pauses to create non-stop action. Matches are designed to be short and intense, lasting about six minutes with potential overtime.

Players can extensively customize their characters with options for skin tone, body type, prosthetics, outfits, and animations. While cosmetic items can be purchased, the developers emphasize that the game is not "pay-to-win" – success depends entirely on player skill.

The game is set in a colorful, optimistic future world with clean energy sources like solar and wind farms, creating a positive atmosphere that aims to encourage friendly teamplay.

Early previews have praised Rematch for its fast-paced, satisfying gameplay. Some reviewers have compared it to a blend of Rocket League and Overwatch, highlighting its immersive feel and potential to bring new life to arcade sports games.

If you're interested in trying Rematch before its official release, you can request access to future beta tests or consider pre-ordering for early access. The game will be available in three editions: Standard ($29.99), Pro ($39.99), and Elite ($49.99), with the higher-tier versions offering early access and exclusive cosmetic items.

Source: PC Gamer