Retro Football

How to Play Retro Football

Choose your team and prepare for a competitive football match. Before each snap, select one of four available play cards to determine your strategy. When attacking, control the quarterback, select an open receiver, throw accurate passes, or run forward to gain yards. You can also hurdle diving defenders to keep your play alive.

When defending, take control of a player and stop the opposing ball carrier with well-timed tackles or chase the quarterback to make a sack. Advance 20 yards to earn a first down and work toward the opponent's end zone. Balance smart play selection with accurate movement to outscore your rival.

Offense, Defense, and Tactical Plays

Retro Football challenges you to think like a coach while controlling the action on the field. Offensive play options include running plays, 13 passing plays, team-specific special plays, and unlocked bonus strategies. Defensive formations offer different approaches, including zone coverage, man-to-man marking, and blitzes.

Passing requires choosing a receiver with the Up or Down input. Follow the targeting arrow and look for teammates with open space to avoid interceptions. On defense, pursue the ball carrier, make tackles, and pressure the quarterback. You can also perform field goals and punts using a two-step kicking system that requires accurate power and timing.

Scoring System

• Touchdown (6 Points): Carry the ball into the opponent's end zone.
• Field Goal (3 Points): Kick the ball between the goalposts.
• Safety (2 Points): Stop an opposing ball carrier inside their own end zone.
• Extra Point (1 Point): Score an additional point with a kick after a touchdown.
• Two-Point Try (2 Points): Attempt another scoring play instead of kicking an extra point.

Game Modes

• Quick Play: Start an individual match against the computer using an unlocked team. Victories also contribute to your rewards.
• Franchise: Lead your team through a 17-week regular season, qualify for the playoffs, and compete for the Retro Cup. Your progress is saved by week.
• 2 Players: Challenge a friend on the same keyboard. Choose different teams or play as the same team with different home and away uniforms.

32 Teams and Franchise Championship

Build your football legacy with 32 teams divided into two conferences, each containing four divisions. Six teams are available initially, while the remaining 26 can be unlocked through match rewards. Every team features its own uniform, three star players, nine technical ratings, and an exclusive special play.

In Franchise mode, compete throughout the 17-game regular season and fight for a playoff position. The postseason includes Round One in Week 18, the Semifinals in Week 19, and the final Retro Cup championship in Week 20. Follow updated standings and passing, receiving, and rushing leaderboards as your team progresses.

Unlock Teams, Bonus Plays, and Customization

Win matches to earn new rewards. Every three victories, choose one item from three randomly presented options. The reward collection includes 26 additional teams and four bonus plays: Iron Wall, Double Move, Flat Outs, and Stacked. Mesh is available from the beginning.

You can also customize helmets, jerseys, pants, socks, and gloves using 12 available colors or restore the original team appearance. There is no coin system, in-game shop, or daily reward requirement. All unlockable content is earned through match victories.

Game Features

• Retro-style American football with competitive 6v6 matches.
• Control both offensive and defensive plays.
• Four play options before each snap.
• Three game modes: Quick Play, Franchise, and 2 Players.
• 32 unlockable teams with unique special plays and player ratings.
• 17-week regular season followed by three playoff stages.
• Unlock bonus plays and customize team uniforms.
• Local multiplayer with two players sharing one keyboard.

Controls

• WASD / Arrow Keys: Move your player.
• Spacebar: Snap, throw, dive, and hurdle.
• Up / Down: Select a receiver.
• Arrow Keys: Choose a play card.
• P: Pause the game.
• M: Toggle sound.
• Mouse: Select play cards and interact with menus.
• Gamepad: D-pad or left stick to move, A for actions, Start or B to pause.

Two-Player Controls

• Player 1: WASD to move and G for actions.
• Player 2: Arrow Keys to move and L for actions.

On touch devices, drag the left joystick to move and tap GO to perform actions. Tap the play cards to select your strategy.

Tips for Winning

• Study the available play cards before every snap.
• Target receivers who have enough space to catch the ball safely.
• Use hurdles to avoid diving defenders during running plays.
• Choose suitable defensive formations to counter your opponent.
• Practice kicking to improve your field goal accuracy.
• Win consistently to unlock additional teams and bonus plays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Retro Football free to play?

Yes. You can play Retro Football directly in your browser without downloading the game. New teams and bonus plays are unlocked through match victories rather than purchases.

How many teams are available?

There are 32 teams in total. Six are available from the start, while the other 26 can be unlocked by earning rewards after every three wins.

Can you play Retro Football with a friend?

Yes. Select 2 Players mode to compete locally using one keyboard. Player 1 uses WASD and G, while Player 2 uses the Arrow Keys and L.

What game modes does Retro Football offer?

The game features Quick Play for individual matches, Franchise for a complete season and championship tournament, and 2 Players for local multiplayer.

How do you unlock new teams and bonus plays?

Earn three victories in Quick Play or Franchise mode to receive a reward selection. Choose one of three random items, including new teams and bonus offensive or defensive plays.

How long does a Retro Football match last?

A regular match takes approximately seven minutes. The first match is shorter, lasting around four minutes to introduce the basic gameplay. Tied matches continue into overtime.

What is the Retro Cup?

The Retro Cup is the final championship match in Franchise mode. Teams must progress through Round One in Week 18 and the Semifinals in Week 19 before competing for the trophy in Week 20.