If you ask football fans what they are accustomed to in the annual rhythm of video game releases, one of their first answers will likely be EA FC, which is released every autumn. For many years, this genre has been split between EA’s domination and the now-fading Pro Evolution Soccer; however, 2025 could be remembered as the year that changed that.
That’s all because of Rematch, which is a new arcade-style game developed by Sloclap and envisions bringing something unique to the gaming world. Launched in June, this football game was stripped down, making it fast-paced, pick-up-and-play-fun. Instead, the game focuses on fluidity, flair, and feel.
The Escapist recaps
- Rematch was released in June 2025 and is available on PC and consoles.
- For the genre, the game developed by Sloclap brings an arcade twist to it.
- It has dropped all official licenses to prioritise its fluid gameplay, creative freedom, and, of course, its retro charm.
- Updates for Rematch are already thought to be in development, with gameplay balancing and the addition of more modes.
- Rematch has become a part of a growing shift away from the current hyper-realism in soccer video games.
Why Rematch matters now
As Rematch could be seen as just another throwback title, it can become easy to dismiss it. It is fun for a weekend, and then there is a lack of staying power. The current soccer video game market is dominated by EA FC, so its timing couldn’t have been better. The simplicity of Rematch isn’t considered a limitation; it has become a positive, deliberate design choice.
Sloclap does double-down on a distinctive, stylized approach. From its exaggerated animation to its energetic match flow. You can see that every design choice embraces flair. Although shots are considered unpredictable, they remain satisfying, and the pace is full speed in the best way possible.
There may not be any microtransactions or an Ultimate Team for fans to get excited about, but it’s just plainly about football, and that’s what fans love about it the most.
The nostalgia factor
Fans love having a bit of nostalgia, and that, alongside its gameplay, is what makes it so compelling. Many players grew up with the likes of Pro Evo and Sensible Soccer, and will have a sense of similarity by just the way the game is. For its polish, it will be modern, but it feels as if it belongs to an era where fun came first, and realism came second.
Some may not like the fact that the big-name teams aren’t included, but for most, it ends up becoming a strength. Forget choosing between PSG and Manchester United, you’re choosing based on formation, kit colours, or even just pure vibes.
Rematch is designed for players to pick up and just have some fun, whereas EA FC relies on deep menus and team ratings, which can feel a little overwhelming.
This is the big question of whether a game like Rematch can remain and even thrive in the same category as EA FC. There is not really a simple answer to this; it is more complicated than it should be. It’s safe to say that EA FC will dominate commercially, but currently, there is a bigger audience for alternative soccer video games.
Especially games that offer excitement over the grind-heavy realism.
In 2025, EA FC has promised fans new features and an even further enhanced Career Mode. For this, it will draw attention for sure, but not every player is looking to spend 30 hours tweaking their tactics. Some will just want to have a fun kickabout.
Head-on, Rematch doesn’t compete with EA FC, but what it does offer is a completely different flavour entirely.
What is next for Rematch?
If you’re a fan of Rematch, then don’t worry, it is not just a one-off experiment. Slocap has confirmed that plans are in place for regular post-launch updates, improved AI, and an enhanced multiplayer mode. The lack of an annual cycle does seem to work in Rematch’s favour, allowing for a more flexible and focused development path.
Without any worries about licensing deals, Rematch has the pure flexibility to become whatever it wants to be; it will be purely shaped by its players, rather than any corporate partnerships.
An alternative worth trying
For many years now, soccer video games have only meant one thing, and that is EA FC. Even now, after it’s been rebranded from FIFA, the majority of the game does feel the same. Rematch, however, proves that there is a space for a different kind of soccer game, one that is more playful and focused on having fun.
Rematch doesn’t have to be a direct competition to EA FC, with its realism or plain star power. It values simplicity, quick enjoyment, and just pure arcade fun.
Ask The Escapist
Rematch launched in June 2025 on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
EA FC 26, if following previous years, is expected to come out in late September 2025, and will come with even better realistic crowd animations, updates to the Career Mode, and even cross-play improvements.
Yes. Sloclap has announced that the game will receive regular updates like additional modes, gameplay tweaks, and the possibility of customization tools, too.
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