Introduction

Cricket 22, the game that answers the question, 'What if I could throw a ball digitally while sitting on my couch?' was developed by Big Ant Studios and published by Nacon. Released just in time for the 2021-22 Ashes series, it offers a thrilling experience to cricket fans, particularly those who prefer their sport sans physical exertion. Buckle up for the good, the bad, and the confusing of the cricket world without leaving your gaming chair.

Gameplay

One of the standout features is the after-touch system, a glamorous term for having more control over the ball after releasing it, almost as if the ball has a mind of its own. Apparently, real-life bowlers never needed this feature, but who needs reality when you can guide a digital ball like it's a wayward cat? The revamped fielding system comes with cinematic camera angles - because nothing says athleticism like watching a pixelated player dive in slow motion. Programming paramedics to resuscitate me after taking control of how fast the ball goes to the stumps was just a special bonus, really. Users unfamiliar with cricket can rely on a brand-new tutorial system. Not so new, though, that it leads you to the answer of why cricket matches last longer than most relationships. Players can enjoy both single-player and multiplayer modes, proving that not all relationships have to end in divorce. Oh, and let's not forget the debut of an all-female commentary team for women's matches - somewhat of a refreshing twist that I imagine will leave those with extreme 'traditional' views shaking their heads furiously. In terms of licensed content, expect both men's and women's leagues, which is a fancy way of saying you can choose not to complain about who your top players are.

Graphics

Graphically, Cricket 22 treads the middle ground of 'not bad' and 'please tell my friends this is amazing'. Textures occasionally grab your eye, mainly because they resemble something from a mid-2000s game, but the overall presentation is polished. Player likenesses are surprisingly spot-on; however, some animations look like they've been pulled from an awkward family reunion video. Big Ant Studios seems to have focused on the players looking more human, potentially so they can escape the uncanny valley - unlike your Uncle Phil after a few drinks at that family gathering. The stadiums are beautifully rendered, giving gamers a sense of what it feels like to be at a cricket match, minus the sticky seats and overpriced snacks.

Conclusion

Cricket 22 stands as a decent cricket simulation that expertly walks the fine line between being fun for die-hard fans and slightly confusing for newcomers. It may not revolutionize the genre, but it does enough to keep fans entertained while allowing you to brag to your friends about your 'sweet' sixes. For hardcore cricket enthusiasts or those looking to get into the sport, it's a worthy buy. If your approach to cricket is more akin to a casual observer who finds joy in avoiding getting sticky wickets, you might want to take a pass. Big Ant Studios has crafted a cricket title with good controls and a decent multiplayer experience, all while staying committed to the baffling complexities of the sport. In summary, if you ever wanted to know what it's like to feel like an all-star without ever needing to leave your living room, Cricket 22 might just be your new best friend. Remember, though, to put some snacks nearby. You wouldn't want to hop off the couch mid-match; we know how that typically ends.

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