As Rocket League approaches its 10th anniversary, Psyonix is gearing up to celebrate this significant milestone with a dedicated season that pays homage to the game’s enduring legacy. Launched on July 7, 2015, Rocket League has captivated players with its unique blend of soccer and rocket-powered vehicles, creating a phenomenon that has influenced the gaming landscape.
Reflections on Gameplay
For many, including myself, Rocket League was once a daily ritual, particularly in the Snow Day mode, where the traditional soccer ball is replaced with a puck—an undeniably superior object for the sport. However, as the years have passed, my rocket-powered battle car has gathered dust, a reminder of the countless hours spent mastering the game.
In the realm of multiplayer sports games, a few titles have emerged that echo the physics-based mechanics of Rocket League. Notably, Hockey?—with its intriguing name—and Slapshot offer similar experiences, demanding players to navigate the complexities of manual control. The creator of Hockey?, Alex Austin of Cryptic Sea, is known for his experimental approach to game design, and his recent montage of impressive dunks has reignited excitement for his future projects.
Yet, while these games are enjoyable, they do not quite capture the essence of what makes Rocket League so special. A new contender is on the horizon, however: Rematch, developed by Sloclap, is currently in advanced access on Steam. This soccer game, which allows players to control individual characters, has drawn comparisons to Rocket League. However, it lacks the physics-based gameplay that defines Psyonix’s creation, as it does not feature rockets or cars—elements that many consider essential to the experience.
The influence of Rocket League is palpable; upon first encountering Rematch, my immediate thought was, “Ah, it’s like Rocket League without cars,” rather than simply recognizing it as a soccer game. This speaks volumes about the game’s impact on how we perceive sports in the gaming world.
As we prepare to celebrate Rocket League’s birthday, it’s a time to reflect on its unique charm and the community that has formed around it. On this special occasion, let’s hope for a day free from Rule 1 violations, and if any do occur, I’ll be sure to express my astonishment with a heartfelt, Wow! Wow! Wow! No way! Okay.
(Image credit: Psyonix)
