Feature: Going Platinum #1: Rocket League

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Hello. My name is Stephen Tailby, and I’m fine, thanks.

We’re launching a new series on Push Square where I’ll be sharing my experiences with every PlayStation game I’ve earned a Platinum Trophy in. And yes, ‘platinumed’ is now a word! You might even hear someone ask, ‘Are you going to platinum Balatro?’ It is what it is, and honestly, accepting it will make discussing these achievements much simpler going forward.

I’ve earned every achievement in a lot of PlayStation games on both PS5 and PS4, but I’m not always sure how I feel about it. My enthusiasm comes and goes – sometimes I really focus on getting those platinum trophies, and other times I don’t bother at all.

This feature lets me look back at all the games I’ve completed and fully mastered, but I’m still not sure if it’s actually useful or enjoyable.

It could at least be enjoyable, and that’s often what draws us to try new things, isn’t it? In a way, this is similar – both this feature and a video game offer the possibility of fun.

Here’s the first edition of Going Platinum! I’d love to hear your thoughts – feel free to share what you like, and if there’s anything you don’t, please offer constructive feedback.

*The answer is no.

Platinum Trophy #1: Rocket League

Date Earned: 11th November 2015

Dopamine Index:

For a long time – really, the seven years I knew them before getting this award – I wasn’t interested in trophies at all.

These games first came out on PS3 in 2008, and honestly, when they did, I wasn’t a fan – and I still don’t think they’re very good.

They’re enjoyable to collect, but ultimately they’re designed to keep you engaged with the game and the PlayStation platform.

When you think about it, earning trophies mainly serves to please Hermen Hulst. He’s focused on keeping players engaged, and boosting those numbers is his priority.

They – the company leaders – seem detached, celebrating while you struggle with a difficult challenge in Fall Guys, trying endlessly for a single trophy. They probably just want you to keep playing, oblivious to your frustration, as evidenced by the neglected promotional display in the corner.

My apologies. I wasn’t interested in earning trophies at all – that is, until I unlocked my first platinum one. Getting it in Rocket League was an amazing experience, and it completely changed my perspective.

One of the main reasons I have such good memories of earning this platinum Trophy is that it happened almost by accident. I was just really enjoying the game, and naturally unlocked most of the trophies simply by playing and having fun.

I spent a lot of time playing that silly car soccer game, sometimes by myself and sometimes with friends. I’d play for a little while or for hours, gradually improving, but it never became more than just a fun hobby. I did have a brief moment where I thought I was close to reaching a high rank, and considered trying to get it, but I never really pursued it.

I especially love this kind of achievement, and I’m sure I’ll mention it again as I keep playing – these are the rewards you earn just by enjoying the game, no matter what it is.

I haven’t played Rocket League in a while, but I’m sure it’s still a lot of fun and I’d enjoy it if I started playing again today.

Cheers, Rocket League.

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2025-11-29 23:07