Sloclap, the developer behind the popular kung-fu roguelike Sifu, has addressed fan disappointment concerning their recent game reveal, Rematch. Creative director Pierre Tarno expressed regret over the misunderstanding, as many fans anticipated a sequel to Sifu after seeing the "from the team behind Sifu" tagline. Tarno explained that the studio felt it was time to move on from Sifu, having provided extensive post-launch support since its last update in September 2023. Despite the initial backlash, Rematch has surpassed expectations, boasting over 1 million sales in its first week and attracting three million players on Xbox Game Pass. Developers emphasize their artistic freedom in exploring new genres while reassuring fans of a thematic connection between their titles.

Why was the reveal of Rematch disappointing for Sifu fans?

Many fans expected a sequel to Sifu due to misleading marketing, leading to disappointment when Rematch was unveiled as a football game instead of a continuation of the kung-fu franchise.

Sloclap is best known for its innovative approach to action games, starting with Absolver, which offered a unique take on melee combat. Sifu further enhanced their reputation by blending difficult gameplay with a compelling storyline about revenge and mastery. With Rematch, the studio aims to diversify its lineup while maintaining key elements that fans enjoyed in their previous titles.