Nintendo has pretty much convinced us that the Switch is probably never going to become an online powerhouse after the latest news regarding its online services and chat integration. Nintendo consoles have always been about local multiplayer fun all the way back to the NES days, and the Switch is no different. In less than a semester, the console has already received a lot of fun little party games which take advantage of its portability and joycons. And Rocket Fist, the latest release from Bitten Toast, is the latest multiplayer game to arrive for the console.

The best way I can describe Rocket Fist is by calling it a “futuristic dodgeball game.” You take control of an adorable and customizable little robot, and your objective is to collect little balls around the arenas (the “fists”) and throw them at your opponents, just like in dodgeball match. Rules are very simple; this is one of those typical games you’ll need only mere seconds to teach anyone next to you how to play it.

I know I’ll sound like a broken record, but the best praise I can give to the game’s gameplay is the fact that it’s “easy to learn and hard to master.” Yes, I said the same thing about another Switch game two weeks ago, but praise needs to be given where praise is due. Rocket Fist‘s controls are all about simplicity: you use the stick to move and the B button to both shoot your dodgeball (when equipped with one) or tackle (when not). That’s basically it. Given the hectic pace of the game, you’ll sometimes have a hard time aiming at foes, as you’ll also be busy trying to avoid three other balls coming at you, as well as some bombs and maybe a boss. You’ll also have some issues with depth perception, as all environments have a very metallic color palette, making it hard for players to distinguish a wall on the center of the stage from just mere artwork.

Sure, Rocket Fist‘s solo campaign can be beaten in less than an hour, but that’s not what we’re here for, right? The game’s main draw is its multiplayer, and I’m not talking about some fancy online mode with ranked matches and lobbies. Rocket Fist‘s multiplayer is all about local madness with up to four players. Although the amount of modes isn’t exactly that high, the sheer simplicity of the controls, coupled with the game’s quick pace make up for it. Rounds are very fast and will cause delightful arguments between friends, just like the good old Goldeneye days.

Rocket Fist might not offer that much content for solo players, but its multiplayer more than makes up for this fact. Its gameplay is simple but chaotic, and you only need one joycon per player. Rocket Fist definitely brings back great memories from the days when local multiplayer reigned supreme. A great addition for your rooftop parties!

Reviewed on Switch.
Rocket Fist is also available on PC.
A copy of Rocket Fist was provided by publisher.