First announced last year,Rocket Arenais Electronic Arts' new multiplayer shooter. Described as a mix ofOverwatchandSuper Smash Bros, the game focuses on players knocking each other out of the arena with high-powered rocket launchers.Rocket Arenalaunched July 14th, and first impressions from critics and players alike have been largely positive.
The game offersfive distinct modes at launch. Knockout, Mega Rocket, Rocketball, and Treasure Hunt are for PvP, while Rocketbot Attack is for those who prefer PvE. Each of these modes can be played on one of the game’s ten stages, which range in style from fantastical castles to steampunk airships. Here’s what to expect on each one.
Fantastical and Futuristic
Apoogee Acres
Apogee Acres is a futuristic residential district in Boom City. The starting areas are defended by blast windows, which can be opened or closed. The multi-layered design at the center of the Acres rewards well-timed rocket-jumps and rocket climbing skills.
Frostwind Grove
A huge tree dominates theFrostwind Grovemap, providing cover for both offense and defense. Around the tree are tall stone towers, which are connected by secret passages. These narrow routes provide opportunities for players to move unseen with the Rocketball, or get the jump on Mega Rocket Zones.
Golden Zephyr
A luxury airship flying above Fort Rocket, the Golden Zephyr is a dangerous battlefield. Moving between the decks requiresnimble rocket-jumping, and a misplaced leap can send a player careening over the edge. Fortunately, players knocked off the main ship can recover by landing on the surrounding vessels.
Hypersonic Heights
Another district in Boom City, Hypersonic Heights is an open map ideal for the Rocketball game mode. UFOs sweep across the broad parks, giving players an opportunity to get the jump on their opponents. There are also plenty of items to grab at the feet of the Berno Boom statue.
Icefall Keep
A frozen fantasy castle, Icefall Keep is a map with plenty of verticality. Both spires and bridges ensure that players need to be very aware of their surroundings. Fortunately, Jump-pads scattered across the map provide quick navigation and opportunities for attack and retreat.
Ocean, Desert, and Jungle
Megadon Junction
Life is harsh out in The Wilds, and nowhere is more dangerous than Megadon Junction. A dry, desolate map of ochre cliffs and steep mesas, the Junction is made even more dangerous by the Rocket Rail Line Express. The train speeds through the map at regular intervals, so players should listen out for its horn to avoid being flattened.
Shimmering Depths
Another sub-nautical map in the Crystal Reef, the Shimmering Depths are a bright city of gold and coral. Submarines coast between the buildings, providing opportunities for rocket-jumping, while water geysers can throw players to new positions.
Star of Crater
Deep in the Crystal Reef, the Star of Crater map features an underwater settlement built around a huge crystal. While the glowing crystal serves as a focal point for combat, it provides little cover. Thankfully, holes in the nearby rock formations allow playersthe shelter they need.
Stompy’s Refuge
Another location in the Wilds, Stompy’s Refuge is centered around a dig-site excavating a colossal dinosaur. Weathered bones form avenues of cover, giving players a chance to avoid attention. Meanwhile, the high-ground near Boone’s Outpost provides a perfect overwatch position.
Temples of Jaaqua
Trading the frigid winds of the Serrata Peaks for humid jungle and ancient magic, the Temples of Jaaqua are the ruins of a long-dead civilization. Buthostile playersaren’t the only dangers lurking among the decaying relics. Traps, pitfalls, and the spirits of feral predators mean that no-one is safe in the jungle.
According to the Rocket Arena website,new maps are comingas the Rocket Championship Tour expands across crater. What’s more, it’s been confirmed that all new stages will be free for all players.
Rocket Arenais out now for PC, PS4, and Xbox One.
