In the dynamic world of football video games, a new contender is set to redefine the virtual pitch: GOALS. Developed and published by the Swedish company GOALS AB, this upcoming title aims to deliver a fresh and immersive football gaming experience.
A Visionary Behind the Game
The brainchild of Andreas Thorstensson, a former professional Counter-Strike player and co-founder of SK Gaming, GOALS is designed to challenge the status quo of football simulations. Thorstensson’s vision is clear: to create an esports-ready, cross-platform multiplayer game that prioritizes responsive gameplay and player engagement. This vision was first unveiled on August 18, 2021, marking the beginning of an ambitious journey.
Gameplay-Focused Design
GOALS distinguishes itself with a gameplay-first philosophy. Players can anticipate a responsive and authentic football experience, featuring game modes like 1v1 and 5v5 matches. Additionally, “The Arena” practice mode offers a space to refine skills and experiment with player avatars. This focus on gameplay ensures that both casual gamers and competitive players find the game engaging and rewarding.
Free-to-Play and Cross-Platform Accessibility
Embracing a free-to-play model, GOALS aims to make the game accessible to a broad audience. The title supports cross-platform play across Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. This inclusivity ensures that players can seamlessly connect and compete, regardless of their chosen platform.
Development and Community Engagement
Built on Unreal Engine 5, GOALS is currently in its alpha phase. The development team has prioritized community involvement, offering early access testing to gather valuable feedback and address potential issues before the official release. This collaborative approach fosters a strong connection between the developers and the player base, ensuring the final product aligns with community expectations.
Financial Backing and Industry Expertise
GOALS AB has secured significant financial support, with $15 million in seed funding announced in April 2022, led by venture capital firm Northzone. An additional $20 million in funding followed in April 2023, spearheaded by Seven Seven Six, the venture capital firm founded by Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian. The company’s board has also been strengthened by industry veterans, including former CEOs of Paradox Interactive and DICE, bringing a wealth of experience to the project’s development.
Anticipation Builds
As the gaming community eagerly awaits its official release, GOALS promises to deliver a football gaming experience that is both innovative and true to the sport’s essence. With its emphasis on responsive gameplay, accessibility, and community collaboration, GOALS is poised to make a significant impact in the world of virtual football.
For a closer look at what GOALS has to offer, check out this gameplay preview: