While at PAX West 2026, LV1 Gaming had a chance encounter with a solo developer who is creating an RPG tennis game. The Tennis Academy is being developed by Rawb Herb, a lifelong artist from Pittsburgh. After hearing the idea of an RPG as the core mechanic of a sports game, I was intrigued. This is a hand-drawn 2D open-world adventure. Classic RPG staples such as giant boss battles, rich stories, and even gay romance with your doubles partner.
The open-world aspect of the game will be centered around college life. You will be able to go to class to learn new skills. Furthermore, you can spend time with your doubles partner to build up your relationship that leads to more power during battles.
The Tennis Academy Key Features
- Magic Tennis Battles – Real-time tennis battles where you’ll leverage your Health and Tenergy against your opponents’. Win either through the Laws of Tennis or by felling your opponents!
- Full Narrative – Long ago, mankind had War – until the Goddess bestowed them with Tennis. 1000 years later, Tennis is in danger – who, or what is the cause? Explore dungeons, fight giant monsters, and save holy spirits of tennis balls.
- Customizable Skills and Stats – Equip racquets, shoes, and accessories to influence your character’s stats in battle, and learn new Special Shots, Abilities, and Passives in school to use ultra powerful moves against your foes on the court.
- Romance Options – Hang out with your doubles partners after school and improve your relationship to unlock new Doubles Passives when battling with them, and romantic spicy cutscenes.
- 100% Blind Accessible – As well as many other planned accessibility features, my goal is to make The Tennis Academy 100% playable, and not only that, but FUN, for blind players. Accessibility options are a priority.
The Tennis Academy is still in early development. But based on the trailer above, this looks like it will be a refreshing take on sports games. If the game looks interesting to you, make sure to add it to your Steam wishlist.
