Awesomenauts: The 2D MOBA That Defied the Odds
Updated On: February 14, 2024 by 
What is Esports? Team
Are you tired of the same old 3D MOBA games and looking for something different? As a fellow gamer, I understand the struggle of finding a unique and exciting gaming experience. Did you know that there’s a 2D MOBA game called Awesomenauts that defied the odds in the gaming industry? In this article, I will take you through the journey of Awesomenauts and how it has become a standout in the world of competitive online gaming. Get ready to discover an extraordinary game that offers a fresh twist on traditional MOBAs.
Key Takeaways
- Awesomenauts is a unique 2D MOBA game developed by Ronimo Games, offering players a different take on the genre with side-scrolling platformer action and hero-based gameplay.
- The game expanded its content with the Starstorm and Overdrive expansions, adding new characters, maps, and features like spectator mode for fans to enjoy.
- In 2017, Awesomenauts transitioned to a free-to-play model, increasing accessibility and boosting its player base significantly.
- Despite positive reception from critics and gamers alike for its innovative approach to MOBAs, Awesomenauts eventually faced server closure but continues in a legacy edition format with all content unlocked.
What is Awesomenauts?
Awesomenauts shakes up the Multiplayer Online Battle Arena scene with a quirky twist: it’s all in 2D. We find ourselves controlling space mercenaries, each with their unique set of skills, battling it out in fast-paced, side-scrolling combat.
Our goal? To demolish the enemy base while piloting robots, dodging turrets and securing territorial supremacy.
This indie game stands out by blending classic MOBA elements with hero-based gameplay in an accessible 2D platformer format. With characters ranging from Russian monkeys with jetpacks to towering robots, Awesomenauts offers us a colorful escape into cartoonish warfare unlike anything else in the competitive gaming sphere.
Brief history
Jumping from the initial concept to the backstory of its creation, we see that Ronimo Games set out to innovate within the MOBA genre with Awesomenauts. Launched for Xbox 360, PS4, and Steam platforms, this title was a bold step away from standard MOBA design.
It transformed what had been predominantly an arena for 3D battlefields into a vibrant universe of side-scrolling action.
Since its debut, the game has carved out a niche among enthusiastic players who craved something offbeat in their combative engagements. By introducing teams of three quirky space mercenaries duking it out across alien landscapes, Awesomenauts brought together elements of team-based strategy and platformer dynamics to disrupt a field crowded by more conventional games.
Its ongoing popularity is proof that even in a market dominated by 3D experiences, there’s always room for well-executed innovation.
Gameplay
Combining 2D platforming and team-based strategy, Awesomenauts offers a unique hero-based gameplay experience that sets it apart from traditional MOBAs. To find out more about the game’s innovative gameplay mechanics, keep reading!
Combining 2D platforming and team-based strategy
Awesomenauts delivers an exhilarating mix of 2D platforming and team-based strategy, setting it apart from traditional MOBAs. Players navigate through side-scrolling levels while engaging in strategic battles with their opponents.
This unique blend challenges players to not only master the abilities of their chosen character but also to work closely with their team to outmaneuver and outwit the opposing side.
The game’s dynamic landscape adds an extra layer of complexity, requiring players to hone their platforming skills alongside their tactical decision-making. With each character possessing distinct abilities, Awesomenauts offers a fresh take on the classic MOBA formula, making it a compelling option for both seasoned gamers and newcomers alike.
Unique hero-based gameplay
Awesomenauts features a unique hero-based gameplay, setting it apart from traditional MOBAs. Each character comes with its own set of abilities and playstyle, allowing players to find their favorite among the diverse roster of space mercenaries.
This feature adds depth to the game as players experiment with different characters to suit their individual strategies and preferences.
The hero-based gameplay in Awesomenauts provides an engaging experience for players, creating opportunities for teamwork and strategic decision-making. With each hero offering distinct strengths and weaknesses, players must adapt their playstyles based on the chosen character while collaborating with teammates to secure victory.
The appeal lies in mastering various heroes, exploring their abilities, and discovering synergies within the team composition. This dynamic aspect keeps the gameplay fresh and exciting for both newcomers and seasoned veterans alike.
Development
Ronimo Games created Awesomenauts, squishing the 3D MOBA genre into a 2D platformer with unique hero-based gameplay. Interested in learning more about its development journey? Keep reading to discover how this game defied the odds!
Creation by Ronimo Games
Ronimo Games, the brains behind Awesomenauts, took a bold step by developing a 2D MOBA game in an industry dominated by 3D titles. The team infused their expertise gained from working on 3D games and successfully adapted it into a captivating 2D format.
This unconventional approach led to the creation of an enthralling game that defied expectations and offered players a fresh take on the traditional MOBA genre.
The developers behind Awesomenauts poured their creativity into crafting each character with four unique abilities, revolutionising typical MOBA gameplay. Ronimo Games’ innovative spirit shines through as they transformed what was once considered impossible – squishing complex 3D concepts into an engaging side-scrolling world.
Squishing 3D games into 2D
Ronimo Games, the developer of Awesomenauts, has defied expectations by successfully adapting 3D game concepts into a 2D format. The studio’s innovative approach has allowed them to create a visually stunning and immersive gameplay experience within the confines of a two-dimensional space.
This unique transition from traditional three-dimensional gaming to the constraints of two dimensions has opened up new possibilities for game development and challenged the status quo in the industry.
The process involved in squishing 3D games into 2D required strategic planning and creative problem-solving. Ronimo Games effectively translated complex mechanics, such as character movements and map design, while maintaining an engaging player experience.
Expansions
The Starstorm and Overdrive expansions brought new characters, maps, and gameplay mechanics to Awesomenauts, expanding the game’s content and keeping it fresh for players. To find out more about how these expansions impacted the game’s development, reception, and transition to free-to-play status, keep reading!
Starstorm expansion
The Starstorm expansion introduced new characters, maps, and features to Awesomenauts. It expanded the roster of playable characters with three unique heroes, each bringing their own abilities and playstyles to the game.
The expansion also added two new maps which offered exciting new battlegrounds for players to explore and conquer. In addition, it brought a spectator mode, allowing fans to watch competitive matches and tournaments within the game.
This significant update provided fresh content and enhanced gameplay experiences for both loyal fans and newcomers alike. Now let’s delve into the impact of the Overdrive expansion on Awesomenauts.
Overdrive expansion
Following the success of the Starstorm expansion, Awesomenauts continued to grow with the Overdrive expansion. This update brought exciting additions to the game, including two new characters: Nibbs and Professor Yoolip.
Nibbs, a dragon warrior with fiery abilities, offered players a unique playstyle and strategic possibilities. Meanwhile, Professor Yoolip introduced an inventive gameplay mechanic by being able to build turrets on the battlefield.
In addition to new characters, the Overdrive expansion also introduced several skins for existing heroes and valuable quality-of-life improvements to enhance the overall gaming experience.
Transition to Free-to-Play
Awesomenauts made the transition to Free-to-Play in 2017, opening up the game to a wider audience and increasing its player base. Find out more about this important change and its impact on the game by reading the full blog.
Reasons for the change
Awesomenauts transitioned to a free-to-play model in order to attract more players and ensure the longevity of the game. The change aimed at removing any barriers to entry, allowing a wider audience to experience the engaging 2D MOBA gameplay.
This strategic move also sought to reinvigorate the community, fostering an even more vibrant player base through increased accessibility. By going free-to-play, Ronimo Games positioned Awesomenauts as a competitive contender in the ever-evolving landscape of online gaming, further cementing its status within the industry.
The shift towards free-to-play not only opened up new opportunities for gamers but also injected fresh energy into the game’s ecosystem by attracting both seasoned veterans and curious newcomers.
Impact on the game
The transition to free-to-play significantly expanded the game’s player base, breathing new life into Awesomenauts. This move allowed more gamers to experience the unique 2D MOBA gameplay without any financial barrier, resulting in a surge of fresh blood and excitement within the community.
The shift also prompted increased developer support, with ongoing updates and new content releases adding depth and variety to the gaming experience.
The game’s impact on the industry has been notable as it defied expectations by thriving in a space dominated by 3D MOBAs. Its success challenged conventional notions of what defines a winning formula for multiplayer online battle arenas, demonstrating that innovation can lead to enduring popularity even against established genre norms.
Reception and Closure
The game received positive reception from critics and fans, with praise for its unique gameplay and art style. Unfortunately, the closure of servers has left many players nostalgic for the good old days of Awesomenauts.
If you want to learn more about how Awesomenauts defied the odds as a 2D MOBA, keep reading!
Positive reception from critics and fans
Awesomenauts garnered positive reception from both critics and fans due to its unique blend of 2D platforming and team-based strategy. The game’s innovative hero-based gameplay, coupled with the quirky and colourful aesthetic, captivated players across different platforms.
Its success in defying the odds as a 2D MOBA within a predominantly 3D-dominated genre earned widespread acclaim for Ronimo Games’ bold creativity. The game’s enthusiastic community praised its distinctive charm, character selection, and engaging multiplayer experience while lauding the developer’s consistent support with updates and new content.
The critical consensus hailed Awesomenauts for injecting fresh energy into the MOBA space through its accessible yet strategic gameplay, cartoonish RTS vibe, and seamless integration of robots and turrets in a side-scrolling setting.
Sales numbers
In terms of success, we’ve witnessed Awesomenauts achieve impressive sales figures that highlight its appeal to a diverse gaming audience. Let’s take a look at how well it fared on various platforms:
| Platform | Sales Figures | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| XBOX 360 | Not Publicly Disclosed | 2012 |
| PS4 | Not Publicly Disclosed | 2014 |
| Steam | Over 1 Million Sold | 2012 |
These numbers only represent a fraction of the game’s total impact, as digital distribution platforms often don’t release precise sales data. However, crossing the one million mark on Steam is a testament to the game’s popularity and the effectiveness of Ronimo Games’ unique approach.
The sales of Awesomenauts have indeed contributed to its longevity in the market. Moving on, let’s delve into the server closure and the current status of the game.
Closure of servers
The closure of servers for Awesomenauts was a disappointing announcement to the game’s dedicated community. The decision marked the end of an era for many players who had enjoyed the unique 2D MOBA experience.
Despite the positive reception and ongoing support from the developer, Ronimo Games, dwindling player numbers ultimately led to the shutdown of the game’s servers.
Awesomenauts’ closure signifies a loss for fans of 2D MOBAs, as it represented a departure from traditional top-down MOBAs with its distinctive side-scrolling combat. While the game may no longer be accessible in its original form, its impact on multiplayer gaming is undeniable, and it has left a lasting impression on those who embraced its cartoonish aesthetic and hero-based gameplay.
Current status of the game
After the closure of servers, Awesomenauts transitioned into a legacy edition, offering players the chance to enjoy the game in its final form with all content unlocked. This decision by Ronimo Games ensures that fans can continue to experience this unique 2D MOBA and engage with the dedicated online community.
The game’s vibrant art style and engaging gameplay still draw new players while keeping long-time fans captivated, underscoring Awesomenauts’ enduring appeal as a distinctive multiplayer gaming experience.
Awesomenauts remains an example of how a 2D MOBA can thrive in a genre dominated by 3D games. Despite the closure of servers, it continues to attract new players and retain its devoted fan base due to its refreshing blend of platforming mechanics and team-based strategy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Awesomenauts has defied the odds by thriving as a 2D MOBA in a market dominated by 3D games. Its unique blend of side-scrolling combat and team-based strategy has set it apart from traditional MOBAs.
With dedicated players and ongoing developer support, Awesomenauts continues to provide a distinct and enjoyable gaming experience for fans of the genre. The game’s success stands as a testament to Ronimo Games’ ability to innovate within the competitive world of multiplayer online battle arenas.
FAQs
1. What is Awesomenauts?
Awesomenauts is a 2D platformer game that combines elements of Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas (MOBA) with team-based strategy and hero-based gameplay.
2. How does the gameplay in Awesomenauts work?
In Awesomenauts, you play as one of many unique heroes alongside your teammates to battle against another team for control using clever tactics and sharp reflexes.
3. Can I play Awesomenauts with my friends?
Yes, Awesomenauts is designed for multiplayer fun, letting you join forces with friends to face opponents in fast-paced team-based matches.
4. What makes Awesomenauts different from other MOBAs?
Its unique blend of 2D platforming action and cartoon-themed RTS style sets it apart from traditional 3D MOBAs, offering a fresh take on the genre.
5. Was video game development challenging for this type of MOBA?
Creating a hero based game like Awesomenauts was indeed challenging because it defied conventional MOBA designs by introducing D platformer mechanics into the strategic depth of teambased gameplay.
