BEHOLD THE KICKMEN is a football game made by someone who has no understanding of, or interest in, what is affectionately known as "The Wonderful Game". Start at the bottom of the Big Boring Football Spreadsheet and grind your way up to become the best at the football anyone's ever seen.
The game features a number of unique mechanics that set it apart from traditional football/soccer games. Players can "wind up" their kicks and tackles, adding an element of timing and precision to the gameplay. The offside rule functions in a nonsensical way, with players randomly being called offside. These quirky mechanics create an accessible yet deeply engaging experience, even for those who may not be fans of the sport.
As players progress through the career mode, they earn money by scoring goals and chaining together passes and tackles. This money can then upgrade the team's attributes, such as passing, tackling, and shooting power. Reviewers praised this progression system, finding it addictive and rewarding as they built up their team's capabilities to overcome increasingly difficult opponents.
The game appears to emphasize scoring goals over realistic football simulation. It awards more points for long-range shots, and the AI goalkeeper is described as incompetent, making it easier for players to score. This approach appeals to reviewers who found traditional football games to be too slow or defensive-minded, praising the game's focus on high-scoring, arcade-style action.
The developer's self-professed lack of interest and understanding in football is reflected in the game's over-the-top, whimsical depiction of the sport. Reviewers highlighted the witty writing and irreverent humor as a key part of the enjoyment, creating a unique experience that sets it apart from more serious football simulations.
The game's simplified, arcade-style mechanics and humorous tone make it welcoming to players who may be put off by the complexity and realism of other football games. Reviewers praised the game's ability to appeal to both hardcore fans and casual players, creating a football experience that caters to a wide audience.