Part of the “frustration” with this job is playing games I’m not enjoying. But, I power through the turmoil for you, dear readers.
Other times, I discover a game that hooks me like no other, and it’s hard for me to put it down so I can fulfill my professional obligations and write about it. That such game is Tape to Tape, now available on Steam Early Access. It’s a hockey roguelike; as a big fan of hockey and a thoroughly enjoyed of roguelikes, I was excited to dive in.
Tape to Tape Is Everything You Know And Love About Arcade Sports Gaming
Here is now publisher Null Games describes Tape to Tape, developed by Excellent Rectangle:
“Tape to Tape brings back fond memories of classics such as Mutant League Hockey, Super Baseball 2020, and NBA Jam — fantasy sports games that even non-sports fans can enjoy. A hockey game at its core, you’ll take control of the worst team in an imaginary league filled with unforgettable characters and colorful teams. It’s your job to build your roster, acquire new abilities, and ultimately win games as you turn your pack of misfits into world champions — or face defeat and go back to the drawing board.”
A more perfect description cannot be written, my dear friends.
I expected the game to be more than suitable, but it’s a surprisingly good game of arcade-style hockey. This is NHL ’94 turned up to 11. Passing through open ice and setting up one-timers is still the game of the game. Tape to Tape adds more to the equation, with directional shooting and even scoring off of deflections.
For a game that features over-the-top mascots and a downright silly style, I was beyond impressed. Null Games isn’t kidding; this is a hockey game at its core, and it’s one I can get myself lost in. To prepare, I began playing with practice mode to get acquainted with how it plays. “Just one quick game,” I told myself.
Five games later, I was still playing.
Tape to Tape’s Roguelike Elements Allow You To Bolster Your Roster
The concept of a rags-to-riches story isn’t novel in hockey. For example, Disney made millions off of The Mighty Ducks franchise. Even in the NHL, the expansion Las Vegas Golden Knights made the Stanley Cup in their first season. The Seattle Kraken, an expansion team currently in their second season, just beat the defending champions in a playoff season. Anything can go in hockey.
Tape to Tape’s campaign can perfectly capture that essence. You’ll train, strengthen your team of rag-tag nobodies, and compete with the best of the best. Giving your team powerups, or bribing the ref to bodycheck the opponents, will make things easier on your journey.
You heard that right; Tape to Tape isn’t afraid to lean into the sillier side of things and embrace that it’s not just a hockey game but a hockey video game. Referees will disallow goals during boss battles. The game fights back when you’re gaining an advantage. This isn’t just about winning; it’s about earning it.
As a result, it keeps things entertaining and fresh. Additionally, it motivates you to do better with every run. The game of hockey and roguelike elements go hand and hand together perfectly. It’s like a match made in heaven.
Wrapping Up
My time with Tape to Tape has been brief but an absolute blast thus far. It’s a breath of fresh air that we can only expect from the indie gaming scene. Thus far, it’s incredibly stable as an Early Access title.
Excellent Rectangle promises to add additional powerups and modifications in the roguelike campaign, additional challenge modes, new dialogue, and an actual introduction to the campaign. There’s currently a small hint at a story, but it could use some fleshing out.
If this is the core gameplay experience, Tape to Tape’s full release will be a can’t miss experience. It’s currently scheduled to launch later this year.
