New soccer game Despelote is out now, capturing the physical and emotional side of the sport from the perspective of a young fan. The game’s unique first-person perspective, using line drawings over photographs of Quito, Ecuador, sets it apart.
The story follows Julián Cordero, an eight-year-old boy in the early 2000s whose love for soccer provides a distraction and sense of hope during Ecuador’s turbulent times. As you play, you’re drawn into the distractions of his daily life, including conversations with his parents, friends kicking a ball around, and watching matches on TVs.
The game’s casual gameplay lets you explore Quito while playing soccer, with an emphasis on fun over structured matches. This approach makes the world feel like a backdrop to your youthful interest in soccer. The story is loose and meandering, conveying anxiety, hope, and the pressure of growing older.
Throughout the game, soccer remains a constant presence, sometimes providing comfort, sometimes pressure, but always a source of joy. Despelote is available now for PlayStation, Xbox, and PC, with Switch to follow later.
Source: https://aftermath.site/despelote-review