Summary
- Release Year: 1990
- Genres: Sport
- Platforms: Amiga, Atari ST/STE, Sega Game Gear, Sega Master System/Mark III, Super Nintendo Entertainment System
- Developers: Anco, Enigma Variations, Tiertex Design Studios
- Publishers: Imagineer, Misawa Entertainment, U.S. Gold
Kick Off 2 (1990): The Football Game That Defined a Generation
Released in 1990, Kick Off 2 is widely regarded as one of the greatest football games ever made. Developed by Dino Dini and published by Anco, it was a groundbreaking title that set new standards for gameplay, graphics, and realism in the sports genre.
Top-Down Perspective and Innovative Controls
Kick Off 2 is played from a top-down perspective, giving players a wide view of the pitch and the surrounding stadium. This perspective allowed for a more strategic and tactical approach to gameplay, as players could anticipate their opponents’ moves and plan their attacks accordingly.
The game’s controls were also innovative for their time. Players could trap the ball under their foot, giving them time to prepare passes and shots. Running with the ball required skill and practice, as it didn’t stick to the player’s foot like in other football games. Complex moves such as overhead kicks, back-heels, and long-range through-ball passes could also be performed with practice.
Realistic Gameplay and Physics
Kick Off 2 was praised for its realistic gameplay and physics. The ball moved realistically across the pitch, and players could control its trajectory and power with precision. Collisions between players were also realistic, with players being able to tackle, barge, and jostle each other for possession of the ball.
The game also featured a variety of weather conditions, which affected the gameplay. Rain made the pitch slippery, making it more difficult to control the ball and pass accurately. Wind could also affect the ball’s trajectory, adding an extra layer of challenge to the game.
Detailed Graphics and Stadiums
For its time, Kick Off 2’s graphics were impressive. The players were well-animated and the stadiums were detailed and realistic. The game also featured a variety of camera angles, allowing players to zoom in and out of the action and get a better view of the pitch.
Multiplayer and Cup Modes
Kick Off 2 offered a variety of game modes, including single-player, multiplayer, and cup modes. In single-player mode, players could practice their skills against the computer AI or compete in a league or cup competition.
Multiplayer mode allowed up to four players to compete against each other on the same computer. This mode was particularly popular, as it allowed friends and family to enjoy the game together.
Cup mode was a single-player tournament mode in which players could compete for a trophy. The cup mode featured a variety of teams from around the world, and players could choose to play as their favorite team or a team of their own creation.
Critical Acclaim and Legacy
Upon its release, Kick Off 2 received widespread critical acclaim. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, realistic graphics, and addictive multiplayer mode. The game was a commercial success, selling over two million copies worldwide.
Kick Off 2 has had a lasting impact on the football gaming genre. Its top-down perspective and innovative controls have been imitated by many subsequent football games. The game is also credited with popularizing the use of real-world teams and players in football games.
Conclusion
Kick Off 2 is a classic football game that defined a generation. Its innovative gameplay, realistic graphics, and addictive multiplayer mode made it one of the most popular and critically acclaimed sports games of its time. The game’s legacy can still be seen in many modern football games, and it remains a favorite among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Review Score
9.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
