(Sorry, DDR isn’t on this list - I just like the MAX 300 look)
By: RJ (@rga_02)
It’s been a while since we’ve done an arbitrary list on this site. So, for all the three readers that read my content, here are my picks for some rhythm games out in the market right now that you should consider picking up.
Note, depending on where you live some of these games may require importing.
Groove Coaster
Taito’s Groove Coaster, which has been a staple of many arcades out there, has finally been released on PC via Steam and you know what? It’s probably the best rhythm game to get at the moment. Yes, I’m serious. While the song selection isn’t that great – although that could just be attributed to taste – the gameplay itself makes this the best. While you are playing Groove Coaster you gradually find yourself deeply entranced with the beats. It’s hypnotic and almost enlightening.
DJMax RESPECT
We have covered this game extensively on this site. Amr calls it, “the bullet-hell of video games.” I said that it deserves more than a silly Dark Souls comparison. Whatever its compared to or called, DJMAX Respect kicks your ass hard but you will see that enjoy that good whoopin’. This game deserves all the patience that you can muster and in return, you will see that it is one of the most rewarding rhythm game – heck video games in general out there. The only downside is that there isn’t any KARA. Smh.
SUPERBEAT: XONiC
This is another game we have covered well on this site. I’ve reviewed the PS4 and Vita version and I’ve enjoyed every single minute I’ve sunk into those games. In those reviews, I’ve praised XONiC for its straightforward gameplay. There isn’t any fluff here, just pure rhythm fun. Because of that, literally anyone can pick this game. I recommend the handheld version of XONiC as it is the friendlier option for those you haven’t played these types of games anymore, but really, any version is fine.
Theatrythm Final Fantasy Curtain Call
This game is a few years old, but it still deserves a shout out. I adored this game when I had a 3DS. To me, it justified owning that archaic handheld. Curtain Call is a tap-based (you can also use the buttons if you want) rhythm game mixed with minor RPG elements. The game boasts about 300 songs from the Final Fantasy series and other Square Enix titles. You don’t need to be a Final Fantasy fan to enjoy the music presented in this game because it’s just too damn good. Also, everything is just so cute.
IA/VT Colorful
Move over Miku, IA is here and ready to take your vocaloid throne.
IA/VT is – in my terrible opinion – the best vocaloid game out in the Vita. Taste is very subjective but since I’m a journalist, my tastes transcribed into words are facts. Joking aide – maybe, I found IA/VT more enjoyable than Hatsune Miku because of the music selection and the fact there isn’t a lot of fluff compared to that series. IA/VT is clean, simple, addicting and most importantly of all, a very rewarding experience.
Honorable Mentions
THE iDOLMASTER: Stella Stage
While not a rhythm game at heart, it is the best idol game out there in the market. You can read my review here.
VOEZ
VOEZ is a simple rhythm game that anyone regardless of skill can enjoy. You can read my review here.
MUSYNC
MUSYNC is a fun and vibrant rhythm game, and like the above, can be enjoyed by anyone. I personally haven’t spent a lot of time with this game, but I can tell you right now that the music in this game triumphs a lot of other games out there, including the games I’ve mentioned in the main list.
I’d also like to mention Taiko, but I haven’t played the PS4 or Switch game yet. I’ll still recommend it anyway since it’s Taiko.