Handball (video game series)
The Handball video game series is a collection of sports simulation games focusing on the team handball sport. Primarily developed and published by European studios, these games aim to recreate the experience of playing and managing a handball team.
The series generally features gameplay mechanics that simulate the physical aspects of handball, including passing, shooting, defending, and strategic team play. Many iterations include licensed teams and players from various European handball leagues, offering a level of authenticity for fans of the sport.
Common features found across the series include:
- Career Mode: Allowing players to manage a team over multiple seasons, handling player transfers, training regimes, and tactical decisions.
- League and Tournament Modes: Offering opportunities to compete in official handball leagues and tournaments.
- Multiplayer Options: Enabling players to compete against each other locally or online.
- Player and Team Customization: Allowing players to personalize their teams and players to a certain degree.
The critical reception of the Handball video game series has been mixed. While praised for its dedication to representing a relatively niche sport, the series has often been criticized for shortcomings in its graphics, artificial intelligence, and overall gameplay polish when compared to more mainstream sports game franchises. Despite these criticisms, the Handball series remains a consistent offering for handball enthusiasts seeking a virtual representation of their favorite sport. The specific titles within the series vary year to year, with different developers and publishers involved depending on licensing agreements and development schedules.