At first look at this title, you might be wondering, 'Rugby 25? What happened to Rugby 24?' So let's dive right in.

First and foremost, we want to apologize for the significant wait you've endured over the past few years in anticipation of a new Rugby game. We've spent a considerable amount of time traveling the world to scan players from over 140 teams and sign various licensing agreements. While this is not an excuse, it may partially explain the delays.

Now that most of this phase is complete, we can now fully dedicate ourselves to developing the game and implementing the teams.

This Early Access phase will allow you to enjoy the game ahead of its full release, but also to influence the direction of its development. With promising feedback and a growing player base, Rugby 25 Early Access sets the stage for a groundbreaking entry into the world of rugby gaming, creating the most comprehensive Rugby video game of all time.

Upon Early Access release, teams will not be final, nor will the players have their photogrammetry likeness integrated into the game. As the Early Access period progresses, teams and players will have their names and likeness updated and integrated into the game.

It should be noted that the AI and player movement are in an experimental phase and anomalies will occur as we lock these important elements of the game in.

We expect delivery of the final version of Rugby 25 later in 2024, the exact length of the Early Access will be dependent upon feedback received and development progress.

Early Access launch

Here we are! Rugby 25 is officially launching its Early Access!

In this initial Early Access release you will be able to select from 21 Nations, but the only team with cphotogrammetry will be the Australian Wallabies and French Teams. Other teams and photogrammetry will be constantly added as the Early Access period progresses.

Our goal with this Early Access is to eventually include:

● Over 140 International Teams including New Zealand, South Africa, England, France and Australia.
● Over 150 Club Sides
● 11 competitions, including URC, Gallagher Premiership, French Top 14 and Pro D2, MLR, and Super Rugby Pacific
● A career mode: Navigate the highs and lows of a professional rugby coaching career. Build and manage your dream team, train players, develop strategies, and make crucial decisions to lead your team to victory
● Rugby Academy: Create teams, players, logos and stadiums in the creation tools in Rugby24, make anything from your all-time favourite players to your local team.

Gameplay

Let's talk gameplay now. We would like to remind you that we are still in the early stages of Rugby 25, but you can already expect these additions during Early Access:

- Realistic Gameplay: Experience the authentic feel of rugby with realistic physics and player movement, employing real rugby strategy to outplay your opponents.
- Dynamic Weather and Stadiums: Play in various weather conditions and iconic stadiums from around the world. Rain, mud, or shine, every match offers a unique challenge.
- Multiplayer actions: Challenge your friends or compete against players worldwide in cross platform online multiplayer modes. Show off your skills and climb the global leaderboards.

Gameplay Modes

From now on, you can start quick matches against an AI offline! During this Early Access period, we'll be adding new game modes such as :

- Exhibition Matches: Jump straight into the action with quick matches. Choose your teams, set the conditions, and get playing.
- Tournaments: Participate in major tournaments and leagues. Win trophies and achieve glory.
- Training: Hone your skills with dedicated tutorial training sessions. Practice different aspects of the game to perfect your technique.

Please note that this ‘roadmap’ isn't final, the content and timing are subject to change.

Want to closely follow the game's development?

Social Channels

Follow the Rugby 25 Twitter account: https://x.com/rugbythegame

Follow Rugby 25 on Facebook: https://facebook.com/rugbythegame

Follow Rugby 25 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rugbythegame/

Join Rugby 25’s subreddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/Rugby24/


Follow Big Ant Studos on Twitter: https://x.com/bigantstudios