What's Happening?
Playground Productions has released a remastered version of Backyard Football '99 on Steam and mobile platforms. This release is part of the revival of the Backyard Sports series, which features a cast of child athletes and younger versions of NFL legends. The game includes players like Barry Sanders, Dan Marino, and Jerry Rice, but notably excludes Brett Favre, who has been replaced by a new character, Chase Downfield. Unlike the original 1999 version, the remaster does not include NFL team names or logos, instead offering fictional team names. The game aims to provide a nostalgic experience for those familiar with the original, maintaining its visual and audio style.
Why It's Important?
The release of Backyard Football '99 is significant as it taps into the nostalgia of gamers who grew up with the original series, potentially expanding its audience to a new generation. By excluding NFL branding, the game avoids licensing issues, which could make it more accessible and affordable. This move could influence other game developers to consider similar strategies when reviving classic titles. The game's release also coincides with the start of the NFL season, potentially boosting its popularity among football fans.
What's Next?
Playground Productions plans to continue the revival of the Backyard Sports series with upcoming releases of Backyard Basketball '01 and Backyard Hockey '02. While no specific release dates have been announced, these titles are expected to follow the same nostalgic and accessible approach. The success of Backyard Football '99 could influence the development and marketing strategies for these future releases.
