Hi-Fi Rush Review

Hi-Fi Rush

Release: March 18, 2024
Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Developer: Tango Gameworks
Genre: PlayStation 5 Reviews, PS5 ReviewsReviews
PEGI: 12
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Hi-Fi Rush explodes onto the PlayStation 5 stage with a vibrant energy that’s hard to resist. This rhythmic action game from Tango Gameworks, previously an Xbox exclusive, takes center spotlight with its infectious blend of comic book visuals, pulse-pounding music, and satisfying combat. While the core experience remains familiar to those who played it elsewhere, the PlayStation port boasts some technical improvements and a chance for a whole new audience to experience its unique charm.

The story throws you into the oversized shoes of Chai, an aspiring rockstar with a heart of gold (literally, after a botched experiment fuses him with an old music player). Now labeled a “defect” by the ruthless tech giant, Vandelay Technologies, Chai finds himself hunted by robotic security forces. With a ragtag group of allies by his side, including the mischievous cat-like Peppermint and the tech-savvy 808, Chai embarks on a quest to expose Vandelay’s secrets and reclaim his freedom.

The narrative, while lighthearted and predictable at times, is serviceable enough to propel you forward. The true star of the show is the world itself. Every element in Hi-Fi Rush pulsates with life, moving and reacting in sync with the ever-present soundtrack. Buildings sway, enemies telegraph attacks, and even cutscene animations are meticulously choreographed to the rhythm. This creates a truly immersive experience that’s as visually captivating as it is mechanically engaging.

The core gameplay revolves around rhythmic combat. Every action, from basic attacks to special moves and dodges, is tied to the music’s beat. A prominent on-screen metronome guides you, and hitting buttons in time unleashes devastating combos, builds your “groove gauge” for powerful special attacks, and grants you bonus points. Conversely, missing the beat leaves you open to enemy attacks and disrupts your flow.

There’s a surprising depth to the combat system despite its seemingly simple premise. Different enemy types require specific approaches, forcing you to adapt your attack patterns on the fly. Mastering parries at the perfect moment not only deflects attacks but also extends your combo window, adding a layer of strategic risk-reward. The game generously allows for slight button press deviations, making it accessible to newcomers to the rhythm genre, while still offering a high skill ceiling for those seeking mastery.

The soundtrack in Hi-Fi Rush is nothing short of phenomenal. It seamlessly blends licensed tracks from legendary bands like The Prodigy and Nine Inch Nails with energizing original compositions. Each song perfectly complements the on-screen action, keeping your adrenaline pumping and your fingers tapping. The voice acting also deserves praise, with the characters delivering their lines with infectious enthusiasm that adds to the game’s overall charm.

Hi-Fi Rush embraces a vibrant cel-shaded art style that pops with color and personality. The comic book-inspired aesthetic perfectly captures the game’s lighthearted tone and energetic atmosphere. Character designs are quirky and memorable, from Chai’s spiky red hair to Peppermint’s mischievous grin. Environments are full of details to discover, from bustling cityscapes to sprawling industrial zones, each pulsating with life in its own unique way.

While the core story can be completed in around 10-12 hours, Hi-Fi Rush offers plenty of incentive to keep playing after the credits roll. The linear level structure encourages exploration, with hidden collectibles, secret challenges tucked away in corners, and environmental puzzles integrated into the rhythmic gameplay. Uncovering these secrets not only rewards you with lore entries and bonus items but also encourages you to truly master the levels and their rhythmic intricacies.

The PlayStation port of Hi-Fi Rush boasts a solid 60fps frame rate and near native 4K resolution, ensuring a smooth and visually stunning experience. Fast loading times keep the momentum going, and the 3D audio implementation further immerses you in the world, making it easy to pinpoint enemy locations and environmental cues. The DualSense controller features, however, are a missed opportunity. While basic rumble feedback is present, it doesn’t quite capture the rhythmic nuances as effectively as some might have hoped.

Hi-Fi Rush is a delightful surprise from Tango Gameworks. It’s a stylish and accessible rhythm brawler with a killer soundtrack and a charming story. Whether you’re a fan of rhythm games or just looking for a fun and unique action experience, Hi-Fi Rush is definitely worth checking out, especially at its $29.99 price tag for the standard edition.

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