Back in March this year, Epic Games revealed that it plans to launch a side-scrolling spinoff of Psyonix’s popular Rocket League video game on mobile devices, aptly named as Sideswipe. According to a recent report, it appears that it might not be the only game from the franchise to arrive on mobile platforms.
Citing a leaked document from the publisher, Android Police revealed that Epic has plans to release the original version of the game to phones and tablets as well. Interestingly, the port is said to feature a “next-generation client with full game experience”, as well as cross-play and cross-progress support on all platforms. Beta testing for the mobile version of Rocket League is slated to commence in Q2 2021, the document added.
The decision to also introduce the full Rocket League experience on mobile is baffling, especially when a “lighter” version of the game is already in the works. Even more so if both versions will presumably feature a free-to-play model – with the option for obligatory in-app purchases, of course. However, having multiple choices isn’t entirely a bad thing either, where users could opt to play Sideswipe for a more casual romp – as opposed to the more eSports-worthy nature of the full version.
And there’s also the chance that the full port of the game on mobile may not see the light of day at all. The leaked document was dated June 2020, which is just a couple of months prior to the ongoing drama between Epic Games and Apple. Therefore, the publisher’s decision may have been altered between then and now.
Regardless, we’ll eventually find out whether this information is accurate once the publisher decides to make an official announcement, if ever. Fortunately, those still eager to play Rocket League on their phones and tablets will be glad to know that Sideswipe is still scheduled for release sometime this year. Although, it is very likely to not be available on iOS or iPadOS devices due to obvious reasons.
(Source: Android Police)
