If you missed the first kickoff, this is your shot at redemption. Sloclap’s slick 5v5 soccer brawler is back on Steam, and the open beta is free-to-play. Don’t sleep on this one.
🥅 Second Beta: What’s New This Time?
Rematch, the high-octane 5v5 soccer-meets-fighter title from Sifu devs Sloclap, has launched its second open beta trial on Steam, and it’s completely free.
Running from May 30 to June 3, this new trial brings more polish, better matchmaking, and a fresh wave of hype. After the surprise success of its first beta in April—where it cracked 146,000 concurrent players—Sloclap is doubling down on momentum. Think of this as a second chance to test their servers and get the game into the hands of those who missed round one.
🆕 New in Beta 2:
- Improved netcode and matchmaking (more stable lobbies, less rubberbanding)
- Expanded customization for characters (new cosmetics, accessibility options)
- Balance tweaks based on community feedback (less stamina spam, better GK responsiveness)
- Performance fixes especially for Steam Deck and mid-range PCs
Redefining Dev Culture: Sloclap’s Community-First Playbook
Sloclap isn’t just launching a game—they’re rewriting the script on how games should be made in 2025.
Instead of the usual “surprise launch followed by emergency patches” model, Rematch is being carefully shaped through a cycle of public betas, direct feedback loops, and transparent iteration. This marks a real pivot from the secretive dev cycles we’ve seen in the past.
Why It Matters:
- Two betas before launch = double the feedbackPlayers aren’t just playtesting—they’re co-developing, in a way. From stamina balance to UI changes, Sloclap has made dozens of community-requested updates.
- Bug fixing in real timeThe devs are quick to squash bugs mid-beta, often deploying hotfixes within hours. No waiting months for a “Day One Patch.”
- Open communicationFrequent dev updates, Discord AMA sessions, and Reddit feedback threads build trust. Players know their voices matter—and that’s huge for long-term retention.
This isn’t just smart development. It’s smart community building. Players who feel heard stick around. And with esports potential looming, that sticky community could be the secret sauce.
ICYMI: The First Beta Was a Surprise Hit
The original Rematch beta quietly dropped in April and immediately exploded. Sloclap, known for the stylish kung-fu brawler Sifu, wasn’t exactly on anyone’s radar for an arcade sports title—but they delivered something unique.
Players praised the game’s:
- ⚽ Fast, skill-based gameplay (manual passing and shooting with real teamwork)
- 🎨 Stylish futuristic visuals (think Jet Set Radio meets Overwatch)
- 🎮 Strong controller feel (tight, satisfying mechanics)
It topped Steam’s trending charts and earned praise from PC Gamer, Steam Deck HQ, and The Guardian.
🎯 Why This Second Beta Matters
Sloclap is clearly using this second trial to stress-test Rematch one last time before its full launch on June 19. But more than that, they’re building a living, breathing game ecosystem—one shaped as much by players as by devs.
This beta isn’t just a demo. It’s:
- A live stress test for future ranked mode scaling
- A marketing moment to get influencers, YouTubers, and Twitch players onboard
- A community checkpoint to see what works and what needs a buff/nerf/hard reset
💬 The Community’s Already Talking
Reddit’s r/RematchGame is heating up with gameplay tips, highlight clips, and praise for how Sloclap is listening. Streamers are calling it “Rocket League but with feet” and “the soccer game FIFA wishes it was.”
If this second beta runs as smooth as promised, Rematch could carve out a serious spot in the esports scene—or at least your friend group’s weekly gaming night.
🔥 Final Thoughts: Try It Before You Buy It
If you’re remotely into sports games, arena brawlers, or just want something fresh before the summer drought, you owe it to yourself to download this beta. It’s free. It’s fun. And it might just be the next sleeper hit of 2025.
🎮 Rematch Second Open Beta is live on Steam from May 30 – June 3.
Full release drops June 19.
What do you think—can more studios learn from Sloclap’s playbook? Or is this just a one-hit wonder?
Sources:
- Steam Page – Rematch Open Beta
- Rematch PC Gamer Preview
- Reddit: r/RematchGame
- Rematch YouTube Gameplay
