Backyard Football ’99 is suiting up for a comeback. Publisher Playground Productions and developer Mega Cat Studios are reviving the beloved classic on September 9, bringing the game to Windows PC via Steam, iOS, and Android. The modern release aims to capture the same pick-up-and-play charm that turned a generation of kids into lifelong football fans.
Playground Productions CEO Lindsay Barnett says the series made the sport approachable and exciting for all ages, and that now is the perfect time to welcome it back for football season. Legendary running back Barry Sanders shares that Backyard Sports holds a special place in fans’ hearts and is thrilled to see the game return. Longtime Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino adds that reintroducing the series gives today’s players a fun, connected way to experience the game he loves.
This updated version of Backyard Football 1999 is enhanced to run smoothly on modern systems while preserving the simple, accessible controls and signature humor. Build your dream roster with icons like Jerry Rice and Barry Sanders, dash with speedster Pete Wheeler, fire touchdowns with Pablo Sanchez, and enjoy the snappy commentary from Sunny Day and Chuck Downfield.
Game modes
– Single Game: Choose from five backyard fields, toggle unique weather conditions, customize your team name and logo, and jump straight into a quick match.
– Season Mode: Draft seven players from 30 classic Backyard Sports characters and a roster of legendary pros including Barry Sanders, Jerry Rice, John Elway, Dan Marino, Randall Cunningham, Drew Bledsoe, and Steve Young. Compete against 15 other teams in a 14-game season. The four division winners and four wild card teams advance to the Backyard Football League Playoffs, with the ultimate goal of hoisting the Super Colossal Cereal Bowl trophy.
Earn classic power-ups
Rack up power-ups by stringing together completions on offense and by sacking the quarterback on defense.
Offensive power-ups:
– Hocus Pocus: Watch your receiver warp downfield for a big gain.
– Sonic Boom: Trigger a ground-shaking run that sends defenders tumbling.
– Leap Frog: Propel your ball carrier forward in gravity-defying hops.
– Super Punt: Launch a booming punt that flips the field.
Defensive power-ups:
– Cough Drop: Force a fumble the moment you make the tackle.
– Chameleon: Disguise your squad in your opponent’s colors to cause chaos.
– Spring Loaded: Vault over the line for a highlight-reel sack.
Whether you’re reliving backyard glory or discovering it for the first time, Backyard Football ’99 returns with the personality, pick-up fun, and gridiron legends that made it an all-time favorite. Mark September 9 on your calendar and get ready to draft, dash, and dominate your way to the Super Colossal Cereal Bowl.
