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In an intriguing twist, the recently launched multiplayer soccer game Rematch is attracting a player base that isn’t primarily made up of soccer enthusiasts. This surprising revelation comes from Sloclap, the developer previously recognized for martial arts titles like Absolver and Sifu, who have now set their sights on the world of sports gaming.
Unexpected Player Demographics
According to Sloclap’s CEO, Pierre Tarno, recent data indicates that the core audience for Rematch leans more toward gamers who thrive on competitive online play rather than traditional soccer fans. “We see via data that the core audience of Rematch is more inclined towards those who play online competitive games rather than those who are fans of football,” Tarno shared in an interview.
This trend is reflected within the development team itself, where many members express indifference toward soccer. Tarno offered an interesting perspective, noting that during internal tournaments, some team members who were initially skeptical about the soccer theme began to see the appeal. “They told me, ‘I get it now. I don’t give a damn about football, but this really struck something in me.’ The dynamics and team play make it engaging for players even if they don’t typically enjoy football games,” he added. Isn’t it fascinating how a new approach can change perceptions?
Game Design and Accessibility
Rematch aims to capture the essence of soccer without sticking to a strict replica. The game emphasizes teamwork, coordination, and strategy, all set in a fast-paced environment that appeals to both soccer aficionados and casual gamers. Tarno likened it to “Rocket League without the cars,” suggesting that it has enough of a soccer aesthetic to attract fans while remaining accessible to a wider audience. Can you see how that could change the game?
Despite its initial success, Sloclap recognizes that converting traditional sports fans may take some time. Tarno mentioned that many potential players aren’t as engaged with gaming culture as core gamers. “They play FIFA but don’t read gaming news sites. Maybe they dabble in FIFA and Call of Duty! But they’re just waiting for their annual releases. To reach them, it’s all about word of mouth and consistent updates,” he explained. This raises the question: how can games like Rematch keep both avid gamers and sports fans interested?
Current Trends and Future Expectations
As it stands, the majority of Rematch‘s player base consists of dedicated gamers rather than sports enthusiasts. While this strategy has proven effective for Sloclap, it’s not without its challenges. Some players are still grappling with the concept of team sports in a gaming context. Tarno’s insights suggest that as the game evolves and more updates are rolled out, the appeal to traditional sports fans might increase. What do you think – could that be the game-changer?
For Sloclap, the journey of Rematch is just getting underway, and they remain optimistic about expanding their audience. With ongoing communication and a strong emphasis on community feedback, the company hopes to bridge the gap between competitive gamers and soccer fans, ultimately creating a vibrant player community around their innovative multiplayer experience. Will this unique blend of audiences redefine sports gaming? Only time will tell!