Precision and Performance: Rematch Prepares for Major Patch 2, Promises Crossplay for August

In a rapid response to player feedback, the developers at Sloclap are preparing to roll out the second major patch for their unique third-person sports game, Rematch. While a beta version of the patch, 1.200.200, is already live on Steam, the full update is scheduled to be deployed on all platforms—PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S—on Monday, August 18th. This patch is a critical step for the game, as it aims to address a number of core issues, particularly in the netcode, that have plagued the experience since its launch in June. For a game that is a blend of action and sports genres, flawless execution is paramount, and this patch is a clear signal that the developers are committed to delivering on that promise. Furthermore, Sloclap has teased that the long-awaited crossplay feature will finally arrive in a subsequent patch at the end of August, a huge development for the game’s community and a key feature for its long-term health.

Addressing the Core Issues: Tackles, Goalkeepers, and Netcode

The primary focus of Patch 2 is to fix the game’s core mechanics and improve its online performance. The developers have been transparent about the game’s shortcomings, particularly with “tackles not registering” and “goalkeeper dive rollbacks,” and the patch notes reflect a dedicated effort to solve these problems. Here’s a breakdown of the most significant changes:

• Tackle Improvements: The patch includes improved network resolution and rollback for tackles, fixing an issue where players preparing a shot could not be tackled. This is a game-changer that will make the defensive side of the game feel more consistent and fair. The developers have also reduced the camera shake on a successful ball steal, making the experience less jarring for players.
• Goalkeeper Overhaul: Goalkeepers are a major focus of this update, with a number of fixes and improvements. The patch fixes issues where goals could be validated even if the goalkeeper had caught or deflected the ball, and it adds new procedural animations so that goalkeepers will now visibly move their arms to catch balls. These changes will make the goalkeeping experience feel more realistic and reliable, a welcome change for players who have struggled with inconsistent saves.
• Ball Control and Netcode: A major change has been made to the “Ball Touch” system, which is the visual system that animates the ball when a player is in possession. The ball will now appear closer to the player, providing a clearer visual for possession. Additionally, the patch fixes several crashes, including those that could occur after a replay or when a player joins an online match from freeplay. The infamous lag at the end of a match has also been fixed, providing a smoother post-game experience.

The patch notes are extensive, detailing a wide range of fixes, from minor animation improvements to fixes for achievement unlocking and UI rendering. This level of detail shows a strong commitment from Sloclap to deliver a polished and high-quality experience, a crucial factor for a new online multiplayer game.

What’s Next: Crossplay and Future Updates

While Patch 2 is focused on fixing the game’s core, the developers have a clear vision for the future. In a recent developer update, Sloclap confirmed that Patch 3, which is scheduled for the end of August, will finally introduce crossplay. This is a massive feature that will bring the player bases from all three platforms together, a crucial step for a game that needs to maintain a healthy player count. The developers have also teased new content, including cosmetic collaborations with brands like Puma, and have hinted at further gameplay tweaks in Patch 3. The addition of crossplay is a key piece of the puzzle for Rematch, and it shows that Sloclap is thinking about the long-term health and growth of the game. The upcoming patches are a clear sign that the developers are not only listening to their community but are also taking decisive action to make Rematch the best game it can be. As the game continues to evolve, players can look forward to a more stable, a more fair, and a more connected experience, a perfect trajectory for a new contender in the world of competitive gaming.