AFL Evolution 2 Set for License-Free Re-Release as Aussie Rules Evolution 2

In a notable development for fans of Australian Rules Football, the video game AFL Evolution 2, originally developed by Wicked Witch Software and published by Tru Blu Games in 2020, is set to make a license-free reappearance under the name Aussie Rules Evolution 2. The re-release is scheduled for July 18, 2025, exclusively on the Nintendo Switch, marking a shift in the game’s branding and content approach.

This re-release comes in the wake of significant changes in the Australian football gaming landscape. The original AFL Evolution 2 featured licensed teams and players, but the new iteration will forego these elements, opting instead for generic uniforms and player names. According to a retail listing spotted by Press Start, the game will focus on providing "no licensed teams, just pure fun and great gameplay," a strategy that reflects a growing trend in the gaming industry of creating non-licensed content to bypass licensing fees and restrictions.

The original AFL Evolution 2 was well-received upon its release, being available on various platforms such as PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, and Nintendo Switch. However, following the transfer of licensing rights to Big Ant Studios—known for their officially licensed cricket and tennis games—the game was pulled from digital storefronts in January 2023, shortly before the launch of Big Ant's own title, AFL 23.

Dr. Emily White, a gaming industry analyst at the University of Melbourne, explains, "The decision to create a license-free version of AFL Evolution 2 could potentially open up new avenues for revenue. It allows developers to create engaging content without the constraints imposed by licensing agreements, which can limit creative freedom."

The release of Aussie Rules Evolution 2 comes at a strategic time for the AFL gaming community, coinciding with the recent launch of Big Ant Studios' AFL 26. This latest title was released last month across multiple platforms, including PlayStation, Xbox, and PC, and is expected to arrive on the Nintendo Switch 2 at a later date. The competitive landscape of sports gaming often leads to such strategic re-releases, particularly in niche markets where licensed titles may struggle to maintain their appeal.

Industry experts suggest that this license-free approach could be beneficial, especially for players seeking a different gaming experience that prioritizes gameplay over authenticity. Mark Thompson, CEO of Tru Blu Games, stated, "We believe that players will appreciate the opportunity to engage with Australian Rules Football in a more simplified and accessible format. By removing licensing constraints, we can focus on gameplay innovations that enhance user experience."

The implications of this re-release extend beyond just the gaming community. It reflects a broader trend within the industry where developers are exploring alternative business models, especially in light of increasing costs associated with licensing and the demand for diverse gaming experiences. The success of Aussie Rules Evolution 2 could pave the way for similar projects in the future, inviting both innovation and competition in the sports gaming sector.

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, the approach taken by Tru Blu Games and Wicked Witch Software could serve as a case study for other developers grappling with the complexities of licensing in sports titles. As fans await the July release, the anticipation surrounding this new iteration of AFL Evolution 2 raises questions about the long-term viability and acceptance of license-free sports games in the market.