Developer and publisher Psyonix launched today the highly-anticipated Rumble update for soccer video game Rocket League. The 1.22 patch was made available at 6 pm ET for Microsoft Windows (PC), Xbox One and PlayStation 4.
The new major update includes the previously announced Rumble mode and some other features micro-transactions via the Crates and Keys system, player-to-player trading, three new arenas, and more.
Initially more focused on contract work for several big-budget titles, Psyonix shifted to developing original games ever since Rocket League came out last year. The title went on to become a commercial success for the company, grossing over $70 million.
The critically praised Rocket League has won several industry awards, sold more than six million sales and has at least 18 million unique players. It has also become a popular eSport for professional players to participate in the ESL, Major League Gaming, and Rocket League Championship Series.
Described as soccer, but with rocket-powered cars, Rocket League got first released for PC and PS4 in July 2015, and a port for Xbox One appeared in 2016. The game is a sequel to Psyonix’s Supersonic Acrobatic Rocket-Powered Battle-Cars, released in 2008 for the PlayStation 3.
Rumble mode is the star of the update
The Rocket League Rumble update includes the free Rumble game mode announced back in September. The epic battle will be available in Online Playlists, as well as Private and Exhibition matches. For the latter, they can choose Mutators like Slow, Civilized, Destruction Derby, and Spring-Loaded.
Rumble mode grants players access to 11 randomized power-ups: The Boot, Disruptor, Freezer, Grappling Hook, Haymaker, Magnetizer, Plunger, Power Hitter, Spike, Swapper, and Tornado. These power-ups can work as advantages for players and hazard to their opponents.
Rocket League has up to eight players assigned to one of two teams. They control rocket-powered cars to push a ball into their opponent’s goal and score points over the course of a timed match. It’s like FIFA meets Mario Kart.
Crates and Keys system, and prices
As for the micro-transactions system, Crates will occasionally drop in addition to the regular post-game item rewards in Competitive matches. When players buy Keys, these will allow access to Garage items unique to the chosen Crates. The keys cost $1.49 individually or in bundles of 5 for $5, 10 for $10, or 20 for $20.
The update includes player-to-player Crate items and Keys trading (only on PS4 and Steam PC), enhanced team customization (more options for car colors), and up to ten battle-car presets.
It also features Team Names selection for both teams in Private Matches as well as the fan requested Party Chat option. Three areas are debuting: the new Urban Central and DFH Stadium versions, and the Octagon Rocket Labs.
Source: PlayStation LifeStyle