Known for the intense melee combat of Absolver and Sifu, developer Sloclap takes a bold, creative turn with REMATCH. This chaotic, physics-based, third-person football game lands somewhere between Rocket League and Pro Clubs. Released on June 19, 2025, REMATCH throws out realism in favor of fluid, arcade-style gameplay that emphasizes teamwork, quick reflexes, and controlled chaos.
Arcade Football, Reinvented
At its core, REMATCH is a fast-paced, team-based online multiplayer game that puts you in control of a single player in 3v3, 4v4, or 5v5 matches. You view the action from an over-the-shoulder third-person camera and must coordinate with your teammates to win six-minute matches on enclosed, wall-lined arenas. There are no fouls, no offsides, no goal kicks or throw-ins — just uninterrupted action and physics-driven gameplay where even the walls become strategic tools.
Skill Over Stats
Unlike most sports games, REMATCH ditches player ratings. Every player starts on equal footing, with no progression system or stat-boosting perks. Winning requires accurate passing, clever positioning, quick decision-making, and above all else, team coordination. You control movement with the left stick, aim passes and shots with the right, and must learn the nuances of ball control, stamina management, and power shots. There’s a steep learning curve, but also a very high skill ceiling.
Immersive Control, Tactical Depth
Controlling a single player demands situational awareness and sharp instincts. Shooting, for example, requires you to aim a reticle with the right stick while pulling the trigger – more akin to aiming a gun than kicking a ball. Passing is similarly manual, with power and direction playing crucial roles. Want to bounce the ball off the wall to set up a volley? Totally doable. Want to rainbow flick over a defender? Risky, but satisfying. Mastery takes time, but rewards are immense.
Teamwork is the Meta
You can’t win alone. Matches often hinge on passing, positioning, and timing. A unique rotating goalie system ensures everyone gets a turn in net, and players can assume the role by simply entering the goal area. It’s fast and flexible, preventing anyone from being stuck in goal the whole match. Unfortunately, early matches can be frustrating due to uncooperative teammates – glory-hogs, absent defenders, or clueless wanderers. But once you find a good squad or hit ranked play (unlocked at level 5), the gameplay shines.
Modes & Mechanics
REMATCH includes Quick Play, Ranked, and Custom matches. All are online-only, with no CPU opponents or offline career mode. The game’s structure is built around short matches and skill-building over time. There are also practice drills and training mini-games; however, failing a drill returns you to the main menu rather than restarting.
Third-Person Action Meets Football Tactics
The third-person camera, a hallmark of Sloclap’s design philosophy, places you right in the action. Tackling, dribbling, and shooting feel physical and dynamic. The stamina system forces you to manage sprints and “extra effort” bursts, while possession slows you down, making you a target for defenders. It’s a constant push-pull of positioning and decision-making.
Aesthetic Flair and Editions
The game boasts a vivid, painterly visual style, with cel-shaded players and futuristic arenas. Cosmetic customization is a significant feature. Outfits, hairstyles, and effects are unlockable via gameplay or through the Captain Pass (season pass). The base game includes everything you need to play, but the Pro and Elite Editions come with bonus cosmetics like:
- Blazon Jewel Set
- Glitcher Trainers
- Blazon AR Cage
- Blazon Buckler Tank Top
- Blazon Backgrounds & Title
- Upgrade Tickets for the Captain Pass
It’s all purely cosmetic, though the monetization model (premium battle pass + direct purchase options) could feel excessive to some, especially since the game already costs $30.
Gameplay Highlights from Players
- Ball deflections off walls add depth and unpredictability.
- Shooting mechanics demand precision and vision.
- Skill moves like flicks and dribbles reward creativity but can backfire.
- Playing with friends vastly improves the experience.
- Goalkeeping is functional but inconsistent, feeling like a blend of strategy and RNG.
- Physics-based control creates both glorious goals and hilarious bloopers.
Performance & Issues
The game runs smoothly on most platforms and is compatible with the Steam Deck, but it’s not without issues. Lag, occasional crashes, matchmaking with unbalanced teams, and the absence of crossplay at launch are notable complaints. Thankfully, Sloclap is actively addressing these concerns, and crossplay is a stated priority.
Should You Play It?
Yes, especially with friends or if you’re tired of hyper-realistic sports sims.
Should You Buy It?
If you love fast, skill-based multiplayer and don’t mind a few early rough edges, absolutely.
Whether you’re winning or losing, the urge for “just one more match” never really goes away. And that’s the sign of something special.
REMATCH: REMATCH is a messy, joyful, competitive football experience that manages to feel both nostalgic and fresh. It recaptures the spirit of pick-up football with friends while delivering a high-skill arcade sports game that rewards practice and coordination. It’s not perfect – there are bugs, balance quirks, and the lack of offline content is a sore point – but it's an undeniably fun and engaging game with strong foundations. – Obsidian
