Video games based on sports have been popular for decades, with early examples being Pong (table tennis), Track & Field (athletics), and 10-Yard Fight (American football). And then we have soccer, which is a hugely popular video game in the FIFA universe.
As graphics and gameplay have improved over the years, virtual simulations of real-world sports have become incredibly lifelike and immersive, which makes them enormous fun to play, especially on a big screen attached to a gaming console or hooked up to a PC.
While we already have excellent video game versions of sports like soccer, basketball, tennis, golf, and more, there are still many sports that could be turned into fun and innovative video games. Here are some ideas for sports games that would be entertaining to play on consoles or PC.
Dodgeball
Dodgeball is a fast-paced sport that relies on agility and evasion. It would translate well into an action-packed multiplayer video game where timing and accuracy are key. Players could perform different throws like underhand lobs or overhand slams, along with jumps, dives, and dodges. Slow motion effects could kick in for dramatic diving catches. Matches could take place in different environments like gymnasiums, playgrounds, or even improbable arenas. Power-ups like multi-balls could keep gameplay exciting. A dodgeball video game could capture the frenetic fun of the real-life sport.
Curling
Curling, which involves sliding stones across ice towards a target area, requires precision and strategy. A curling video game could implement similar gameplay mechanics to lawn bowling titles, but with the added complexity of having to manage the stone’s rotation. Single player challenges focused on accuracy, multiplayer matchups, and a competitive ranking system could all be part of the experience. Elements like changing ice friction and wind speed would also influence shots. The chess-like thinking needed for curling could translate into a uniquely thoughtful and methodical video game for people that like a challenge.
Boxing
With a boxing video game, you can bob and weave as you face dangerous opponents with different fighting styles in matches set everywhere from smoky gyms to packed stadiums. An in-depth career mode would let you create and customise a boxer before taking on challengers, earning sponsorship deals, and training with famous coaches on your quest for championship belts. Precision punch controls would let you deploy jabs, hooks, uppercuts, and counters. You could target opponents’ bodies and exploit weaknesses in their guards. A realistic stamina system would capture the essence of going the distance in long, tactical bouts. With robust multiplayer modes, you could create intense rivalries against friends and players worldwide as you fight your way to the top of the billings as an elite champion boxer. It’s no wonder boxing remains a popular sport for betting enthusiasts. Placing friendly bets on big fights between pro boxers or influencers never gets old on platforms like NetBet sport.
Skateboarding
The challenges and creativity of skateboarding have always been well-suited for a video game version, as evidenced by the popular Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater games. However, there are surprisingly few modern games, so there’s definitely a gap in the market. In a more up-to-date game, players could control a virtual skateboarder through expansive environments filled with ramps, rails, ledges, and other structures. Performing different tricks and combos by pulling off various stick, button, and trigger combinations could recreate the physical skills and style of real skateboarding. Features like video recording gameplay and sharing online would let players show off their coolest tricks. Detailed character customisation and deep equipment options for boards and wheels would help players connect with their virtual skater.
Surfing
Hang ten in a surfing video game that plunges you into the ocean in search of the perfect wave. You would have to time your balance and position on the board as you ride down huge barrels and carve across walls of water. A wide selection of real-life surf spots could be rendered in photorealistic graphics. You could then judge the wave size and type before paddling out and choosing the optimum equipment. A competitive mode would let you compete in contests at different beaches for prestige and unlocks. You could release special tricks by pulling off controller combos to impress judges for higher scores. A game like this would let you become a legendary virtual surfer as you dominate swells from around the world.
Cheerleading
A cheerleading game could combine rhythm mechanics with coordinating elaborate team routines. You would safely perform challenging stunts and acrobatics like lifts, tosses, and human pyramids by relying on precise timing. Nail the choreography in large cheers and dance numbers by inputting complex series of directions and buttons with a squad. Train your cheer squad to upgrade skills, recruit new members, and unlock flashy new uniforms. With an emphasis on teamwork, creativity, and spirited energy, a cheerleading video game could provide a fun, cooperative experience.
With innovative design and engaging gameplay elements, video game releases based on these sports could offer new dimensions of fun for players. The most successful sports video game franchises continue finding new ways to transform real-life athletics into interactive entertainment. There are still plenty of sports waiting for their chance to become the next big gaming phenomenon.
