Developer: Ubisoft Montreal
Platforms: PC, PS4, Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X (preview)
Genre: Sports
Publisher: Ubisoft
The Roller Champions Beta was a brief window into the new IP from Ubisoft. It’s based around roller derby being merged into 3 versus 3 battle royale. The game combines elements of roller derby, racing games and sports games. I can draw comparisons in terms of gameplay of Rocket League, you and your team pit yourself against others online. In this game, you take control of a player instead of a vehicle though.
Roller Champions is based on roller derby, but this takes a 3 person team format, you have to capture the ball and put it into the goal. It’s not that straightforward, when you capture the ball you must navigate a lap of the course before you can score. You must avoid enemy players to get the goal to open. You can go it all alone by dodging others or pass it to fellow team members, if you (and your team) manage that the goal will open and you get the opportunity to score. Opposition players can push, kick and take the ball off you. The game is based on these 3 versus 3 formats, where you can use your teams to pass the ball.
The graphics have a shine and you get a real sense of momentum when you play. You feel the crash and come together as players hustle for the ball to gain possession. It’s fast-paced and there is always something happening in the game. There is rarely a dull moment. All of this combined with the solid online netplay and plenty of people on the servers was a great experience. The game is a mix of a racer, beat ’em up and sports game, these elements make Roller Champions.
I’m not sure if the balance is perfect but I think minor tweaks are required for defending teams, I feel the offensive teams are a bit overpowered. Apart from this point, it’s an enjoyable experience. The game is straightforward to pick and the controls are simple too. Before you know it you are stuck in the action as well. It will be interesting to see how the final game turns out, this beta does give a good flavour of what we can look forward to.
Enjoys more than the odd game, long time gamer, somewhat a technologist and everything else in between.
Also enjoys a good solid game of FIFA online. Currently PS4, XBOX 360 and STEAM.
