Pup Champs' football puzzler hits iOS, Android soon

• Pup Champs blends cute puppies with football in this upcoming iOS and Android title
• Don't expect a sports simulator - this is actually a clever puzzle game!
• Strategically maneuver your team, execute perfect passes, and score that winning goal

The football genre has seen countless variations, but Pup Champs marks my first encounter with canine players taking the pitch. The best part? You won't have to wait long – this charming game launches on iOS and Android May 19th.

Surprisingly, Pup Champs isn't actually a sports simulator. It's a strategic puzzle game where you guide your team to victory through precise passing while dodging opponents. Designed for accessibility, you can master these matches without knowing intricate football rules.

Adding to its appeal, Pup Champs features an inspiring underdog storyline (their phrasing!) where you coach retired soccer players transforming into amateur champions.

The free-to-start version of Pup Champs launches with 20 introductory puzzles. Honestly, I was startled to discover this wasn't another sports simulator! Given pop culture phenomena like the Puppy Bowl, football-playing pups seems inevitable in our cute-obsessed era.

Rest assured, developer Afterburn (known for quality titles like Railbound and Golf Peaks) ensures this isn't just a pretty face - it's got substantial gameplay depth beneath its adorable exterior.

If you love staying ahead in mobile gaming, check out Catherine's "Ahead of the Game" series - her latest edition explores whether the fish-themed tower defense game Sushimon deserves a spot on your roster.