Summary

Release Year: 2013
Genres: Indie, Sport
Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
Developers: The Bitmap Brothers, Tower Studios, Vivid Games
Publishers: Mastertronic, Rebellion

Speedball 2 HD: A Brutal Fusion of Handball and Ice Hockey in a Cyberpunk Dystopia

Introduction

Step into the neon-drenched, adrenaline-pumping world of Speedball 2 HD, a modern reincarnation of the classic futuristic cyberpunk sports game that captivated gamers in the early 1990s. Developed by Vivid Games and released in 2013, Speedball 2 HD is a brutal and exhilarating blend of handball and ice hockey, set in a dystopian world where violence and athleticism collide in a relentless spectacle.

Gameplay: A Symphony of Speed and Brutality

Speedball 2 HD retains the core gameplay mechanics of its predecessor while introducing several innovative twists. Players control a team of six cybernetically enhanced athletes in fast-paced, high-scoring matches that combine the finesse of handball with the bone-jarring physicality of ice hockey.

The objective is simple: score more goals than your opponent by launching the ball into their net using a combination of speed, skill, and brute force. However, achieving this is far from easy. Opposing teams will do everything in their power to stop you, from tackling and shoving to unleashing devastating special abilities that can cripple your players or even knock them unconscious.

The game takes place in a zero-gravity arena, allowing for gravity-defying leaps, aerial maneuvers, and lightning-fast ball exchanges. Players can jump, dash, and use power-ups to gain an advantage over their opponents. The ball itself behaves like a live grenade, bouncing erratically and exploding on impact, adding an extra layer of chaos and unpredictability to the gameplay.

Setting: A Dystopian Cyberpunk Vision

Speedball 2 HD is set in a gritty, neon-soaked cyberpunk dystopia where corporations rule and violence is a way of life. The sport of Speedball has become a popular form of entertainment, providing a brutal outlet for the masses to vent their frustrations and escape the harsh realities of their everyday lives.

The game’s arenas are massive, high-tech structures adorned with neon lights and towering screens that project live footage of the matches. The crowds are a mix of cybernetically augmented fans and corporate sponsors, all cheering on their favorite teams and reveling in the spectacle of violence and athleticism.

Characters and Teams

Speedball 2 HD features a diverse roster of characters, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. Players can choose from various teams, each representing a different corporation or faction within the dystopian world.

Some of the most notable teams include:

Alphatron: A corporate-sponsored team known for their ruthlessness and technological enhancements.
Phoenix: A rebel team fighting against corporate oppression, relying on speed and agility to overcome their opponents.
Renegades: A group of outcasts and misfits who play for the sheer thrill of the game.
Steelers: A heavily armored team that specializes in physical intimidation and brutal defense.

Game Modes and Features

Speedball 2 HD offers a variety of game modes and features to keep players engaged and entertained:

Campaign Mode: A single-player story mode that follows the journey of a rising Speedball team as they battle their way to the championship.
Exhibition Mode: A quick play mode where players can customize matches and choose from different teams and arenas.
Online Multiplayer: Compete against other players from around the world in intense online matches.
Character Customization: Players can create and customize their own Speedball team, choosing from a variety of characters, abilities, and uniforms.
Power-Ups: Collect power-ups during matches to gain temporary advantages, such as increased speed, strength, or special abilities.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Speedball 2 HD received critical acclaim upon release, with many reviewers praising its fast-paced gameplay, innovative mechanics, and faithful homage to the original game. It was nominated for several awards, including “Best Sports Game” at the Golden Joystick Awards.

The game has since become a cult classic among fans of the original Speedball and those who appreciate a unique and adrenaline-pumping sports experience. It has also inspired a passionate modding community that has created new teams, arenas, and gameplay modifications to extend the game’s longevity.

Conclusion

Speedball 2 HD is a masterful blend of futuristic sports and cyberpunk aesthetics that delivers an exhilarating and unforgettable gaming experience. Its fast-paced, brutal gameplay, diverse characters, and dystopian setting create a unique and immersive world that keeps players coming back for more. Whether you’re a fan of the original Speedball or simply looking for a high-octane sports game with a twist, Speedball 2 HD is a must-play.