Introduction
Basic information
- Developer Name: Salt Castle Studio
- Full Name: Alpaca Ball Allstars
- Release Date: October 15, 2020
- Released on: Nintendo Switch, PC
- Cross Play: No
Initial thoughts
With this revamped review of Alpaca Ball Allstars, my wife and I were excited to dive back in and see what new chaos awaited us. One of the most exciting additions was the new rumble arena mode, designed to amplify the already wild and silly experience. We were eager to see how this mode could bring even more fun to a game we already enjoyed immensely.
Story and setting
Plot overview
The story in Alpaca Ball Allstars remains quirky and fun, much like the original. You play as a lovable alpaca traveling the world, competing in wacky soccer matches to stop a rich alpaca from destroying your home. While it’s not the most complex narrative, the charm and humor keep you engaged, especially with some surprising plot twists and lighthearted moments.
World building and immersion
The world-building is simple but effective. The variety of locations you visit keeps the game feeling fresh as you move from one stage to the next. From snow-capped fields to beachside arenas, the playful environments immerse you in a world where alpacas rule the pitch.
Character development
There isn’t deep character development here, but it’s not necessary. Each alpaca has their own unique flair and personality, particularly when it comes to their quirky customization options, which makes each match feel personal.
Emotional impact
The emotional impact isn’t profound, but it’s hard not to smile throughout the campaign. The game delivers joy through its sheer silliness and over-the-top antics, ensuring you have a blast from start to finish.
Rating for story and setting
I have visited multiple aspects of the story and after some thought and objective thinking, I rated the story and setting with an 7.5
If you can get through the campaign without laughing, I will eat my shoe.
Gameplay and mechanics
Core gameplay mechanics
The core mechanics are all about the ragdoll physics being the star of the show. The goal is to score by swinging your alpaca’s head to hit the ball, and the unpredictable physics result in hilarious, chaotic moments. The new rumble arena mode adds even more mayhem with environmental hazards and power-ups, making each match feel like a chaotic battle royale of flying alpacas.
Difficulty and balance
The game strikes a good balance between being accessible for newcomers and offering enough challenge for those who want to master the mechanics. While the gameplay is intentionally silly, there’s still strategy involved in working with the physics and outmaneuvering opponents, especially in the new rumble mode.
Pacing of the game
The pacing is perfect for this type of game. Matches are quick and chaotic, and the action never drags. Whether you’re playing solo or in co-op, there’s always something ridiculous happening that keeps you entertained.
Innovation and uniqueness
The addition of the rumble arena mode is a fantastic innovation. It’s a perfect way to take the game’s core mechanics and add layers of unpredictability. The original game was already unique with its premise, but this mode takes it to another level of fun and chaos.
Controls and user interface
The controls are simple and intuitive, allowing you to focus on the fun without getting bogged down by complex mechanics. The user interface is clean and easy to navigate, making it easy to jump in and start playing.
Microtransactions
There are no microtransactions, everything you unlock is earned through gameplay, adding to the sense of accomplishment.
Rating
After combing through many of the mechanics, the pacing and other factors of this game, I rated the gameplay and mechanics with an 9
While it might not seem great at first, the flying alpaca madness mechanics fit together perfectly.
Graphics and art style
Quality of graphics and art direction
The graphics are vibrant and polished, with each alpaca and environment brought to life in colorful, whimsical detail. The art direction complements perfectly the silly tone of the game, making each match visually entertaining.
Technical performances
The game runs smoothly, with no noticeable frame drops or technical hiccups. Even in the most chaotic moments, when multiple alpacas are flying across the screen, the performance remains stable.
Environment and design uniqueness
The environments are varied and add to the game’s charm. From grassy fields to icy arenas, each stage has a distinct look and feel. The new rumble arena mode brings even more uniqueness to the environments, with obstacles and traps that keep players on their toes.
Rating
It took me some time to give the graphics and art style an objective rating. There are many things to consider, but ultimately, I rated this section with an 8.5.
I like that there are many stages to fly alpacas around.
Sound and music
Music score and how it contributed to the game
The soundtrack is catchy and fits perfectly the lighthearted tone of the game. The upbeat, playful tunes are simple but get stuck in your head, adding to the fun atmosphere. (As seen in the video when Simone swings to the tune)
Sound effects quality
The sound effects are just as silly as the gameplay, with satisfying thuds and crashes as alpacas bash into each other and knock the ball around. The sound design adds an extra layer of hilarity to the experience.
Voice Acting
There’s no voice acting in the traditional sense, but the alpacas’ various grunts and noises add plenty of character to the game. It’s all part of the charm.
Rating
After a lot of consideration, I rated the sound and music section with a 10.
I think Simone would not like it if I gave this section lower than a 10, I mean, the music is so silly and funny!
Replayability
Game Length and content volume
The game is long enough to feel satisfying but not overwhelming. You can complete the main campaign in about 6–8 hours, but the new rumble arena mode adds significant replayability.
Extra Content
The rumble arena mode is the star of the show when it comes to extra content. It’s perfect for quick pick-up-and-play sessions or extended multiplayer fun with friends and family.
Replay value
With the chaotic nature of the gameplay and the addition of the new rumble mode, there’s plenty of replay value. The randomness of each match means no two games are the same, keeping things exciting long after you’ve finished the main campaign.
Rating
After thoughtful consideration, I decided to rate the replayability and game length of Alpaca Ball: Allstars with a 9.
There is a lot of content for a small silly game!
Suggestions and comparisons
Suggestions and feedback
- Adding more customization options for alpacas could bring even more fun to the experience.
- More game modes or mini-games could add extra variety, especially for players looking for something beyond soccer.
Comparisons
I am not a fan of much soccer games, so, sadly, no comparisons, as I cannot think of any other game where the alpacas fly.
Personal experiences and anecdotes
One of the highlights of our playthrough was how hilarious the alpacas’ ragdoll physics were. Watching our alpacas flail around the field, especially in the rumble arena mode where obstacles sent them flying, had us laughing out loud. It’s this kind of unpredictable fun that makes Alpaca Ball Allstars so enjoyable.
Rating
Taking in all the personal experiences with Alpaca Ball Allstars, I give it a personal rating of 9,
Roar like an alpaca!
Last words
Pros
- Hilarious ragdoll physics make every match unpredictable and fun.
- The new rumble arena mode adds extra chaos and excitement.
- Vibrant, colorful graphics that perfectly match the silly tone.
- Simple, intuitive controls.
- Co-op mode for added multiplayer fun.
- No microtransactions—everything is earned through gameplay.
- Catchy, upbeat soundtrack.
- A variety of environments and stages to keep things fresh.
- High replayability, especially with the addition of new modes.
- Fun, quick matches that are perfect for casual play.
Cons
- Could benefit from more customization options for alpacas.
- The campaign is still on the shorter side.
This game is a must-play for anyone looking for a lighthearted and hilarious soccer experience. Whether you’re a returning fan or new to the game, Alpaca Ball Allstars delivers an equal experience parts ridiculous and fun.
FINAL RATING
7
Please let me know what you think of Alpaca Ball: Allstars in the comments!
I hope you enjoyed reading this review, I hope to see you in the next review!
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I think it is superb game, very fun to play. But im a little biased because i always loved such games (and similiar) 🙂 Thanks for reviewing this game, I added it to wishlist on steam. PS – Good there are no microtransactions that effect gameplay (none at all), it could ruin it.
Hope you will play it one day!
I normally don’t like football/soccer games… But alpacas? Okay, this goes from “eh” to “maybe I’ll give it a try”! Looks like fun party game from the video, and you two seem to have enjoyed it!
How many people can play this game? Is it only 1v1, or can it also be 2v2 or more?
I believe eight people at once.
We enjoyed it a lot!
Where are the sheep? haha🐑
This game looks fun and funny!
I’ve seen the video and the motion looks great.
The sheep are on the bench!
Looks fun, reminds me of Rocket League
Never played Rocket League
Looks like it could be fun, even if I usually don’t play sports games!
Thanks for bringing this game to my attention! 😀
I also dislike sports games, but I do review some of them.
Quick matches, oop modes, chaotic gameplay, sounds good!
It is indeed fun!
For a party game, it’s definitely amusing.
Gotta kick or swing the ball!
this looks like fun ^^
Indeed is a lot of fun!
It’s really fun to playing this game. I could give more than 7.
Looks to be a fun game 🙂
It is a fun game!
I haven`t heard about this game before. I thought it`s fully coop party game, but nice that there also solo “campaign”.
You can also play the campaign in co-op!
I love the silly physics and cute alpaca theme! Love that there’s a story mode and different lands to visit! I played the demo a few years ago with my mom and she actually loved it! The controls were simple enough for her to play pretty well 🙂 I’ll definitely consider getting it!
You should get it to play together!
alpaca football. let’s go bois
Time to win the cup!
alpaca balls
Lama balls!
This game is unuqie,relaxing and simple with game mechanics.
It is indeed simple with lovely mechanics!
Simple concept, but very efficient. 😀 Feels like Rocket League, but way off its league and more fun in my opinion hahah. Alpacas are so cool. :3
Alpacas rock!