All right, listen up, fellow gamers – I’ve just played a creature collector so fresh and so unbelievably addictive that I can’t stop playing it. It’s called Beastieball, and, quite honestly, I haven’t been this hooked since I first discovered Pokémon as a kid.
Except Beastieball is, well, the best parts of Pokémon, sports games, and anime all rolled into one cute, pastel-coloured package.
Volleyball With A Beastie Twist
First off, we need to talk about the genius premise of Beastieball. It’s got all the creature-collecting goodness we’ve become familiar with thanks to games like Pokémon, but with a massive upgrade to the story to make everything flow: volleyball.
Yes, you heard that right. Instead of traditional turn-based combat, Beastieball has you coaching your “Beasties” in volleyball matches, where you actually care about the outcome. Now, I’m not one for any sport, really, but best know I’m invested when it comes down to match point, and it’s my adorable electric squirrel vs that ridiculous lizard thing I’m playing against.
A Coach’s Dream Game
Going into Beastieball, I couldn’t shake the feeling that all it would be was Pokémon with volleyball mechanics thrown in. And, in essence, it is. But it’s also so much more than that. Beastieball is a turn-based volleyball RPG where you gather and train your Beasties to compete in matches, strategically swapping them out like a sports coach.
For every serve (look at me throwing that sports lingo around like I know what I’m talking about), you have three moves: defend, attack, or heal. This seemingly simple setup opens up so many strategies that you’ll feel like you’re coaching your own volleyball team IRL before you know it.
Beasties with Personality
The Beasties in this game are stars in their own right. Each one has unique moves, quirks, and personalities. Throughout the game, you’ll watch them grow, learn new moves, and high-fiving each other while developing serious soft spots for your favourites – despite your better judgment.
A World Worth Exploring
The game’s world blends Pokémon, Animal Crossing, and Scott Pilgrim into some kind of fever dream. Think cosy villages, lush forests, and colourful NPCs that are as lovable as the Beasties.
Catching new Beasties isn’t about throwing a ball – it’s about earning their trust through in-game challenges. Whether winning a match in a specific way or showcasing your Beastie’s skills, it’s a refreshing twist that keeps things fun.
Room to Grow, But Already Great
One of the best things about the game is that it’s still in Early Access, which means there is still plenty of room for it to grow and evolve. But even if it doesn’t, what is currently available is smooth, intuitive, and loaded with a plethora of quality-of-life features like fast travel and easy team swaps.
Beastieball is one of the most well-thought-out “creature-collecting” RPGs I’ve played in years. It’s streamlined, efficient, and endlessly fun – making it perfect for sneaking in a quick match… or two.
Beastieball also isn’t just another creature collector; it’s a heartfelt, team-focused experience that blends sports, strategy, and adorable critters. It’s about teamwork, community, and having a blast with the quirky creatures you meet.
If this sounds like your dream game, jump in now. I’ll see you courtside with my Beasties, ready to spike our way to glory.
If you enjoyed this review and you want to jump into Beastieball for yourself, you can follow the link here to our Beginner’s Guide.
