Beastieballis currently in early access, but it already features a number of colorful monsters to team up with. This growing cast of creatures has invited comparisons withPokemon, and there is certainly plenty of shared DNA. However, whilePokemonsees players doing battle with their newfound friends,Beastieballbrings volleyball into the mix for a fresh new take on the monster-taming genre.
Beastieballseems to wear itsPokemoninspirationon its sleeve, and the titular Beasties have already begun to draw attention from thePokemonfanbase and adjacent communities. After all, adorable and awe-inspiring designs are a big draw for any monster-tamer. However, the ways in whichBeastieballsets itself apart are undoubtedly what should keep players on the hook.
Beastieball Embraces the Pokemon Premise with a Sports-Based Twist
Beastieball is Making Strides with Early Access Updates
Beastieballwas released on Steamin early access on May 08, 2025, after previously being announced as a Kickstarter in 2023. The game does not yet have a full launch date, and will likely remain in early access for the foreseeable future. There are plenty of reasons to hop on theBeastieballtrain early, though.
First and foremost, it’s important to recognize what being inearly accessmeans forBeastieball. Of course, the game is far from complete, but it’s definitely not stale either.Beastieball’s developers have released updates that are both frequent and extensive, with little sign of slowing down. Consistent balance patches are a great way to keep up with player feedback, although it’s a little too early to tell if this trend will continue. Regardless, the progress made so far should instill faith in anyone keeping a close eye on the project.
Beastieball Adapts Many Key Mechanics from Pokemon
Beastieballhas taken more than a few notes fromPokemon, with some mechanics seemingly being lifted wholesale. However, where Pokemon do battle, Beasties play sports, and this key difference ensures that the similarities are much more than skin deep. This dynamic should provide a lot ofappeal forPokemonfans, while still creating something that stands on its own.
One of the first things players will encounter is the concept of Metamorphosis, which is very clearly intended to beBeastieball’s take on Evolution.Beastieballalso features Railhouses and Reserves, which are analagous toPokemon Centers and the PC Boxrespectively. Many of these mechanics are well adapted forPokemonfans to pick up fast, with a few even being arguably improved.
Beastieball Boasts Unique Features for Veterans of the Pokemon Series
Of course, the fact thatBeastieballis a sports game is by far the biggest thing that separates it fromPokemon. The focus on competitive volleyball informs every part of the game, even with small details such as naming conventions. One great example is that of Away-Teams, which are a one-stop-shop for any players looking for an online experience. Online battling has been a crucial mechanic ever since it was introduced to the series inPokemonGeneration 4, butBeastieballtakes a different approach.
Away-Teams are essentially a network feature that allows players to earn passive EXP, not a direct way to do PvP battles. In simpler words, players create an Away-Team to go out into the world and compete against teams other players have made online. Although this is different fromPokemon’s online battles, it should still be very familiar toPokemonfans. Many games in the series have introduced similar network features, such as the Poke Pelagointroduced inPokemon Sun and Moon.
One of the best featuresBeastieballplays with is Relationships.Pokemonuses the Affection Systemto represent the bond between a trainer and their Pokemon, although it is admittedly a little bit obtuse. Relationships, meanwhile, actually form between Beasties who have played together. There are different kinds of Relationships that can develop, and each of them has a unique effect on Combos performed during a match. This not only makes Relationships more streamlined, but gives them a greater degree of depth altogether.
Beastieballcarves out its own unique identity, while still feeling familiar in the best way possible. In fact, the monster designs and cutesy charm that give itties toPokemonare often what lets it make the boldest strides. Considering it is still in early access, the game will hopefully continue to grow and evolve from here. Until then,Pokemonfans can hop in early to get a kick out of everythingBeastieballhas to offer.
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet
WHERE TO PLAY
The school that you’ve enrolled in as you playPokémon ScarletandPokémon Violethosts a special independent study project. The theme of this assignment is “A Treasure Hunt.” Explore the world and seek out your very own treasure!Three stories will be woven into your adventure while traversing the sprawling Paldea region. Along Victory Road, you will go to Gyms in different locations in order to to achieve Champion Rank. On the Path of Legends, you’re able to join Arven in search of rare ingredients. And in ★ Starfall Street ★, you’ll challenge Team Star, a group of delinquents causing trouble for the school.These stories are set in an open world, so where you go is all up to you. A world teeming with Pokémon and people to meet is waiting for you—traverse the Paldea region wherever you heart desires.
