Yep, very simple, fun and rewarding game.
Yep!
The game is mechanically very simple, cars drive and "kick" a ball. But that shouldn't be confused for a lack of depth!
There is a massive amount of room for strategy and skill to separate casual players from the very skilled definitely.
I have already seen players employ "play-making" strategies with ball-positioning and player-positioning. A good solo-player can on their own set themselves up for an easy shot by rebounding the ball at the side of the goal post (which is very easy, because the "goal posts" are a wall which extends across the arena).... the ball will bounce back in front of the net and if timed right often leads to an easy goal. Very similar to the hockey concept of "crashing the net" or rebounding the puck off the wall behind the net.
I have also already witnessed (and been a part of) genuine "passing" for assists on goals. It is really something to behold.
The simplicity and intuitive nature of "ball physics" lets players simply manipulate the game to the limit of their abilities (timing is very important) which is amazing.
The whole concept of "centering the ball" (for which you get points) is an extension of real soccer/football play. And not only do you get "points" for the action as measured by the game, but it is fundamentally sound to the game of football/soccer and Rocket League, because it actually leads to goal opportunities!
Kind of like sports IRL! It's the first game I can think of that really translates the experience of the randomness and freedom of sports in real life into a game scenario.
I think being physics-based is very important in that regard. The physics and "game/universe rules" are very accommodating to vast disparities in skill-based play because they are so simple and absolute, and by that token leave massive room for potential of the coordination of the players within that physics-based game system.
And that is very impressive!
