If you loved the oddly named Supersonic Acrobatic Rocket-Powered Battle Cars, then Rocket League is without doubt a day-one purchase. On the other hand, if you’ve never played the oddly named Supersonic Acrobatic Rocket-Powered Battle Cars, then chances are that it’s still a day-one purchase!
The premise here is simple: two teams of up to four players hop into micro-sized motors, hammering a giant ball around as if they are playing football. In truth, that’s just about all there is to it, but Rocket League’s crunching physics and multiplayer hooks make it one of the most addictive games you’ll find pacing the PlayStation 4 dug-out.
Although it looks and runs a hell of a lot better on newer hardware, it’s the gameplay that really matters here. Developer Psyonix knows this all too well, preserving the original template from SARPBC with one or two subtle tweaks here and there. For instance, by pressing the triangle button, the player cam will shift towards the current position of the ball It’s pretty much an auto-lock without the cheapness, as although it’s certainly helpful, the skewed camera angle requires players to be even more dexterous in their drive handling.
Judging from the beta, multiplayer matchmaking has been a key area of focus for Psyonix. Even with my abysmal wireless connection, I managed to play through entire matches on EU servers without a hitch. That’s a huge relief, especially when you consider the hectic speeds at which cars tear across the arena.
Speaking of arenas, the preview beta only features the one. As expected, this was the default soccer-style stadium, showcasing Rocket League’s gameplay at its rawest. As in the original, there will be a decent selection of arenas at launch with a number of interesting designs floating around. Psyonix has even confirmed that it plans to launch a slew of free arenas later down the line.
Aside from its refined gameplay, Rocket League offers a few welcome perks. Although not featured in the beta, cars will be fully customizable using a range of cosmetic options. The full version will also serve up a substantive single player mode, allowing players to hone their skills.
My favourite new feature has to be the new scoring system, though. In a similar style to online shooters, Rocket League will reward players with points for actions performed during matches. Whether you hammer in a delicious goal, wreck and opponent, centre a ball, or save a shot, you’ll receive a constant flow of XP. It’s a well implemented system and one that encourages players to work as a team and adopt different roles instead of buzzing around the ball like a swarm of flies.
Despite it being fairly bare-boned at this moment in time, the Rocket League beta has given a clear indication of what’s to come. Throw in local multiplayer, online rankings, and a singleplayer mode, and you could have one of 2015’s defining digital games on your hands.
tonyyeb
The beta is very good, keeping the excellent controls and physics from the original whilst improving the looks as well as the audio and presentation. I too like the scoring (although you don’t get any for demolition I thought?), it adds an extra element to it – even if you aren’t the goal scoring hero you can still get credit for a good game.
coruscant
I’ve really enjoyed the beta – it’s obviously been popular because it’s been extended.
MrJimmy
Also v impressed with the beta and will buy For sure. Love the crowd crowd chants!
Pixel_nme
Just pure F U N fun,loved SARPBC and been having loads of fun in the beta with Berzerka and R1M,day one purchase definitely for me roll on summer :)
R1MJAW
Can’t wait. Such a fun game and as Pixel said, himself, berzerka and I have been having a good laugh with the beta for the past few nights. Slightly disappointed that the release has been pushed back a few months though.
Tuffcub
I am rubbish at the game. Manage to hit the ball once so far.
lambchop
Keep it up. I’m pretty bad at it but I did manage one goal at the end
lambchop
Had a good Blast on the Beta this evening. I was crap but I still enjoyed it…
tantalus_blank
I’m really enjoying the beta. The physics seem somehow better, but in a way that actually makes it easier even when you’re used to its nuances. I also really liked the new scoring system – it means you actually get some credit for playing as a defender
MrJimmy
@TC have a couple of rounds in each view mode and then try flipping it frequently, that works for me. Also jump then boost then steer is a nice flexible move