Sportsfriends (2014)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Sportsfriends (2014): A Raucous Romp Through Retro-Inspired Sports

Introduction

Sportsfriends is a delightfully chaotic and charming collection of four local multiplayer games that are perfect for parties, living rooms, and even backyards. Developed by Die Gute Fabrik, Sportsfriends harkens back to the golden age of couch co-op, with simple yet addictive gameplay that’s easy to pick up but difficult to master.

The Games

Sportsfriends features four distinct games, each with its own unique blend of retro aesthetics and modern sensibilities:

  • BaraBariBall: A side-scrolling fighting game with a distinctly retro art style. Players control one of four characters and engage in frantic matches filled with projectiles, power-ups, and over-the-top special moves.
  • Super Pole Riders: A QWOP-like pole vaulting game that requires players to carefully coordinate their button presses to achieve maximum height. The game features both competitive and cooperative modes, and is sure to get your heart racing.
  • Hokra: A high-velocity sports game that combines elements of soccer, hockey, and basketball. Players use a giant ball to score goals in a variety of arenas, with the ability to perform special moves and power-ups to gain an edge.
  • Johann Sebastian Joust: A physical party game that requires players to use their bodies to joust each other off of platforms. The game is played to music, and the last player standing wins.

Gameplay

Sportsfriends is designed to be accessible to players of all ages and skill levels. The controls are simple and easy to learn, but the gameplay is deep and rewarding, with a high skill ceiling. Each game offers a unique blend of strategy, skill, and luck, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the things that makes Sportsfriends so special is its focus on local multiplayer. In an era where online gaming is increasingly prevalent, it’s refreshing to find a game that encourages players to gather in the same room and compete against each other. Sportsfriends is the perfect game for parties, family gatherings, and even casual get-togethers.

Graphics and Sound

Sportsfriends features a charming and distinctive retro art style that is reminiscent of classic 8-bit and 16-bit games. The pixel art is detailed and expressive, and the animations are fluid and full of personality. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with a mix of upbeat and energetic tracks that perfectly complement the gameplay.

Reception

Sportsfriends has been met with critical acclaim since its release in 2014. The game has been praised for its innovative gameplay, charming art style, and addictive multiplayer. Sportsfriends has won numerous awards, including the BAFTA Games Award for Best Multiplayer and the Independent Games Festival Award for Excellence in Design.

Conclusion

Sportsfriends is a must-have game for anyone who loves local multiplayer games. It’s a raucous romp through retro-inspired sports that is sure to get your heart racing and your friends laughing. With its simple yet addictive gameplay, charming art style, and excellent soundtrack, Sportsfriends is a game that will be enjoyed by players of all ages and skill levels.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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