The next game from the Sifu developer is not at all what you imagine.
Rematch is the upcoming release from Sifu developer Sloclap, and it is a soccer game with a focus on multiplayer gameplay.
Sloclap, known for its critically acclaimed action game Sifu, revealed its next project, Rematch, at The Game Awards 2024. While the announcement might come as a surprise since it's a multiplayer 5v5 soccer game rather than a direct sequel to Sifu, the roots of Sloclap’s action games are still evident in this new title.
Rematch resembles a blend of Rocket League and EA Sports FC, featuring a sports game where players control a soccer player from a third-person perspective. Unlike more traditional soccer games that use top-down views and adhere to strict league rules, this game allows players to focus on a single character, engaging in dynamic, action-packed matches without worrying about collision penalties or the ball going out of bounds.
The artistic style of Rematch stands out with its eye-catching cel-shaded aesthetic, adding a vibrant touch to the experience. While it respects some basic football rules, players can perform special actions like acrobatic kicks to advance the ball without the fear of typical penalties.
The influence of Rocket League is clear, as the primary goal is to score in the opponent's goal using any strategy available, from bouncing the ball off walls to aggressive ball steals. Creative director Pierre Tarno emphasized the importance of teamwork, suggesting that, despite having dribbling mechanics, the most effective approach is often to pass the ball to a teammate to avoid being stripped of it.
Unlike other titles that may be offered for free, Sloclap intends to launch Rematch as a paid game, a direction more akin to their previous game, Absolver, which was their first foray into the world of online multiplayer gaming. Tarno also outlined the technical challenges of creating a smooth online game at 60 frames per second with multiple players on the field, where timing is crucial to maintain a fair and consistent experience for everyone.
Rematch is expected to feature customizable lobbies and post-launch season support, similar to real soccer seasons, including new modes, arenas, and cosmetic items. While it may not be what fans expected from Sloclap after Sifu, there is significant potential for Rematch to resonate with soccer fans worldwide. The beta will be available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S next summer.
