Title: Sloclap’s REMATCH: A Football Game Inspired by Martial Arts That Might Transform the Genre

Paris-based developer Sloclap, renowned for its elaborate combat systems in Absolver (2017) and Sifu (2022), has ventured into fresh territory with its newest endeavor: REMATCH. Initially, the reveal of an online multiplayer football game from a studio steeped in martial arts action may have appeared surprising. However, after engaging with the recent beta, it’s evident that REMATCH is not only a logical progression of Sloclap’s design philosophy but also a refreshing and inventive perspective on the football genre.

A Different Type of Football Game

REMATCH is positioned as a “genuine football experience with an arcade flair.” In contrast to conventional football simulations like EA Sports FC (formerly FIFA) or Konami’s eFootball, REMATCH eliminates the intricacies of real-world football rules—no offsides, no fouls, and no VAR. Rather, it emphasizes fast-paced, skill-centric gameplay in 4v4 or 5v5 matches where each player commands a single character.

This design decision aligns REMATCH more closely with titles like Rocket League, which has been referred to as “football with cars.” Indeed, many have labeled REMATCH as “Rocket League with people.” However, while the comparison holds in terms of accessibility and speed, REMATCH infuses a unique essence reminiscent of anime-inspired sports series like Blue Lock or Galactik Football, where athleticism is dramatized and exaggerated for effect.

Sloclap’s Distinctive Combat Heritage

What distinguishes REMATCH from other football titles is Sloclap’s characteristic gameplay mechanics. The studio’s expertise in martial arts combat translates fluidly into the game’s foundational systems. Players can execute acrobatic maneuvers like bicycle kicks, dash across the field at incredible speeds, and perform precise, skillful strikes that demand more than mere button-mashing.

The game’s controls are user-friendly but provide an unexpected depth. For instance, while kicking the ball is simply a matter of pressing a button, achieving mastery in shot accuracy and ball handling necessitates finesse and practice. This equilibrium between accessibility and mastery is a hallmark of Sloclap’s design philosophy and is likely to attract both casual gamers and competitive players.

A Refreshing Option in a Stagnant Genre

The timing of REMATCH’s arrival is impeccable. Traditional football games have experienced a decline in innovation and quality during the last decade. EA Sports FC has encountered backlash for its monetization strategies and lack of significant updates, while Konami’s eFootball has struggled with technical difficulties and content shortages. Even Football Manager, a long-time favorite for strategy fans, has faced challenges, with the 2024-2025 season’s launch being canceled due to development hurdles.

In this landscape, REMATCH presents a desperately needed breath of fresh air. Its unconventional approach, coupled with Sloclap’s expertise in developing gratifying gameplay systems, positions it as a potential disruptor in the football genre.

Beta Feedback and Community Responses

The recent beta test, conducted on April 12–13, allowed players to experience what REMATCH has in store. The feedback was predominantly positive, with numerous players commending the game’s smooth mechanics, distinctive style, and competitive promise. Nevertheless, there are issues that Sloclap will need to consider prior to launch.

Concerns regarding latency, balancing the skill system, and matchmaking are among the most frequently noted challenges. Furthermore, the game’s pricing model has ignited discussions. The Standard Edition is available for $29.99 USD, with the Pro Edition (featuring 72-hour early access) priced at $39.99, and the Elite Edition (early access plus extras) at $49.99. While some gamers find the game’s value justified, others fear that the pricing may limit its broader appeal.

Fortunately, REMATCH will be offered on Xbox Game Pass at launch, which should aid in reaching a more expansive player demographic and generating early momentum.

Anticipating Launch

REMATCH is slated for release on June 19, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. An additional open beta is on the calendar for April 18–19, allowing more players to sample the game ahead of launch. Sloclap has also hinted at seasonal game modes and purchasable content, which could help sustain player interest over time.

While it’s uncertain if REMATCH will replicate the spectacular success of Rocket League, its solid groundwork, distinctive identity, and developer background lend it a viable chance. For now, the most telling endorsement might be this: even days after the beta concluded, players are still eagerly anticipating a rematch.

Conclusion

REMATCH is poised to be more than just an unconventional experiment from a martial arts-centric studio. It’s an audacious reinterpretation of what a football game can be—fast

As the community of Magic: The Gathering eagerly anticipates the complete launch of Tarkir: Dragonstorm, players are already considering powerful enhancements for their Commander decks. While the focus often rests on flashy mythics and legendary dragons, there exists a wealth of wallet-friendly cards within this set that can discreetly elevate your 99. Whether your strategy revolves around dragons, graveyard recursion, or token synergies, these five concealed treasures—all of which are presently priced under $1 on TCGPlayer—deliver considerable value and adaptability for any Commander deck.

Let’s explore the top five overlooked cards from Tarkir: Dragonstorm that merit inclusion in your upcoming deck enhancement.

Top 5 Hidden Gems from Tarkir: Dragonstorm for Commander (Under $1)

1. Flamehold Grappler (Jeskai – Red/White/Blue)
Mana Cost: 1URW | Creature – Human Monk

Flamehold Grappler is a spell-slinging juggernaut that rewards careful sequencing in your plays. Upon casting it, your next spell this turn is replicated without any additional mana costs. This ability is not only explosive in Jeskai burn or spellslinger decks, but it also unlocks combo potentials with cards such as City on Fire or Narset’s Reversal.

In Commander, where colossal, game-ending spells are typical, Flamehold Grappler can be the spark that transforms a decent turn into a game-winning one. Combine it with Temporal Trespass for consecutive turns, or use it to amplify powerful enchantments or instants. It’s a must-explore for any deck featuring red, white, and blue.

Best Commanders to Pair With:

– Elsha of the Infinite
– Narset, Enlightened Exile
– Captain America, First Avenger (custom/unofficial builds)

2. Kheru Goldkeeper (Sultai – Black/Green/Blue)
Mana Cost: 2BGU | Creature – Dragon

Kheru Goldkeeper is a dream for enthusiasts of graveyard strategies. This Sultai dragon generates Treasure tokens whenever cards exit your graveyard, making it an ideal choice for self-mill or reanimation tactics. It also possesses a built-in recursion feature: exile it from your graveyard to grant a creature flying and two +1/+1 counters.

In decks like Muldrotha, the Gravetide or Sidisi, Brood Tyrant, Kheru Goldkeeper acts as a value engine. Pair it with cards like Blossoming Tortoise or Ripples of Undeath to enhance graveyard interactions. It also synergizes wonderfully with upcoming cards from the Final Fantasy crossover, such as Sin, Spira’s Punishment, which exiles cards from your graveyard each turn.

Best Commanders to Pair With:

– Muldrotha, the Gravetide
– Sidisi, Brood Tyrant
– Zimone and Dina

3. Iridescent Tiger (Mono-White)
Mana Cost: 3WW | Creature – Cat

Initially, Iridescent Tiger might appear to be a high-cost vanilla creature, but its capacity to produce mana of any color upon casting makes it a hidden gem in five-color decks. In setups that rely on summoning high-cost creatures like The Ur-Dragon or Progenitus, the Tiger serves as a ramp spell in disguise.

The mana versatility it provides is particularly valuable in Domain or multicolor-intensive decks. Combine it with Leyline Immersion or Jodah, the Unifier to cheat in substantial threats. Moreover, if you replicate it with Flamehold Grappler, you could achieve a potential ten mana of any color—an explosive move in any game.

Best Commanders to Pair With:

– The Ur-Dragon
– Jodah, the Unifier
– Ramos, Dragon Engine

4. Strategic Betrayal (Mono-Black)
Mana Cost: 2B | Sorcery

Strategic Betrayal is a straightforward, efficient removal spell that exiles a creature along with its controller’s graveyard. In Commander, where graveyard recursion is prevalent, this card serves a dual purpose by eradicating a threat and inhibiting future plays.

What truly elevates this card is its capacity to bypass indestructible and protection effects. It offers a budget-friendly solution to troublesome commanders like Animar, Soul of Elements or Ghave, Guru of Spores. If you’re playing black, this is an obvious addition for your removal options.

Best Commanders to Pair With:

– K’rrik, Son of Yawgmoth
– Toshiro Umezawa
– Sheoldred, the Apocalypse

5. Shocking Sharpshooter (Mono-Red)
Mana Cost: 1R | Creature – Goblin Archer

Don’t be misled by its small stature—Shocking Sharpshooter is a potential game-changer in the right deck. This 1/3 creature deals 1 damage to each

Exploring the PCVR Universe with PSVR2: Top Games to Experience with the New Connection Cable

Virtual reality has advanced significantly in recent years, with a range of headsets providing diverse experiences based on your preferred platform. While the Meta Quest 2 and 3 have gained attention for their wireless features and standalone capabilities, they often struggle to capture the full potential and quality of PCVR. For those seeking a more immersive and high-quality VR environment, the PlayStation VR2 (PSVR2) has emerged as a leading choice—particularly now that it supports PC connectivity.

With the introduction of the new PSVR2 connector cable, Sony’s latest headset is no longer restricted to the PlayStation 5 ecosystem. This innovation grants access to an extensive library of PCVR games that were previously off-limits for PSVR2 users. Equipped with a high-resolution OLED display, cutting-edge haptics, and ergonomic Sense controllers, the PSVR2 is now set to be one of the prime means for experiencing VR—whether on console or PC.

Here’s an overview of five of the top PCVR games now available for your PSVR2 headset, along with a brief insight into what makes each title unique.

1. Boneworks

Boneworks is a physics-based VR sandbox that has gained a devoted following among PCVR fans. Created by Stress Level Zero, the game provides a distinctive mix of puzzle-solving, combat, and exploration—all rooted in a highly interactive physics engine. Unlike many VR titles where interactions feel scripted or restricted, Boneworks encourages extensive experimentation. Every object has weight, your body has mass, and movement follows realistic physics principles.

Despite its acclaim, Boneworks was never released on the original PSVR or PSVR2—until now, due to PC compatibility. With the new connector cable, PSVR2 owners can finally tap into the game’s complete features, including mod support and user-generated content that enhances gameplay longevity.

2. Blade & Sorcery

While Boneworks emphasizes physics-driven interaction, Blade & Sorcery focuses on physics-based combat. This medieval combat simulator lets players wield swords, bows, and magic with an unparalleled level of realism and brutality in VR. Each weapon behaves uniquely, and the game’s physics engine ensures that each clash, parry, and spell delivers a grounded and gratifying experience.

The game’s modding community is also a major highlight. From Star Wars lightsabers to Marvel-inspired magic spells, Blade & Sorcery offers endless customization. With the PSVR2’s accurate tracking and responsive controllers, the immersion has never been better.

3. I Expect You to Die 3

The third entry in the celebrated escape-room-style series from Schell Games, I Expect You to Die 3, carries forward the franchise’s legacy of clever puzzles, spy-themed scenarios, and witty humor. Each mission is a standalone puzzle box loaded with interactive elements, hidden clues, and lethal traps.

The game’s polished visuals and user-friendly controls make it a standout in the VR puzzle genre. Previously exclusive to PC and Meta platforms, PSVR2 users can now immerse themselves in this stylish spy adventure and enjoy its distinctive narrative style.

4. PC VR Mods

One of the most thrilling aspects of connecting your PSVR2 to a PC is gaining access to the vibrant modding community. Countless popular “flat” games have been converted into viable VR experiences thanks to dedicated modders. Whether you wish to sneak through the halls of Alien: Isolation, discover the world of Final Fantasy VII Remake, or even brave the challenging realm of Elden Ring in VR, there’s likely a mod available for it.

While not every mod is flawless—some games weren’t initially designed for VR—the diversity and creativity showcased here make this an essential pathway for any PSVR2 user with a capable PC.

5. Half-Life: Alyx

No list of PCVR titles would be complete without Half-Life: Alyx. Developed by Valve, this game is widely regarded as the benchmark for VR design. Set in the Half-Life universe, Alyx blends precise shooter mechanics, environmental storytelling, and inventive puzzles to create an exceptionally immersive experience.

From the moment you grasp your first gravity gloves to your final confrontation with the ominous Jeff, Half-Life: Alyx exemplifies top-tier VR game design. There were rumors suggesting it would debut on PSVR2, but that never happened—until now, with the introduction of the connector cable.

Getting Started with the PSVR2 Connector

Configuring your PSVR2 for PC use is relatively simple. You’ll need a PC with Bluetooth 4.0 capability, as the Sense controllers connect directly to the PC. After linking the headset using the new cable, just download the PlayStation VR2 application from the Steam store and follow the on-screen prompts. In a matter of moments, you can…