Hi-Fi RUSH

Developer: Tango Gameworks
Release: Jan 25th 2023
Platforms:
Action
Innovative
Stylish
Addictive
Repetitive
Technical Issues
Hi-Fi RUSH Poster

Hi-Fi RUSH Review

Hi-Fi RUSH is widely praised for its innovative fusion of rhythm and action gameplay, delivering a unique beat-driven combat experience that resonates with players. The game’s vibrant cel-shaded art style and anime-inspired visuals create a lively, cartoon-like atmosphere that many find captivating. Players enjoy the dynamic soundtrack, where every element of the environment moves in sync with the beat, enhancing immersion and engagement.

While the story is light-hearted and humorous, it tends to lean into cheesy and predictable territory, which may not appeal to everyone. The game is generally forgiving, making it accessible to a broad audience, though some find the rhythm mechanics unforgiving without proper input calibration. Minor technical issues such as audio desync during cutscenes and clunky platforming slightly detract from the overall experience, yet the game remains a standout title for rhythm-action enthusiasts and casual players alike.

Highlights

The game’s rhythm-based combat system is highly praised for its satisfying and fluid mechanics, making each attack and dodge feel impactful.

The art style and animation receive consistent acclaim for their distinctive, colorful, and comic book-inspired visuals.

Players appreciate the engaging soundtrack that perfectly complements the gameplay, with the entire environment moving to the beat.

Humorous and entertaining dialogue adds charm, while the lovable characters and quirky companions, like the dancing robot cat 808, enrich the experience.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include lack of input offset calibration, causing timing frustrations for players with input lag.

Some players find the platforming mechanics clunky and imprecise, which impacts exploration and pacing.

The story and writing are viewed as cheesy and sometimes forced, with limited depth and predictability.

Technical issues such as audio desynchronization in cutscenes and delayed voice lines detract from immersion.

The gameplay can feel repetitive and overly simplistic after extended play, with combos lacking meaningful variation.

Pros

  • Innovative rhythm-based combat that feels satisfying and engaging throughout.
  • Distinctive cel-shaded art style blending comic book and anime aesthetics beautifully.
  • Dynamic soundtrack with every object moving to the beat enhances immersion.
  • Humorous and entertaining dialogue adds charm and personality to characters.
  • Accessible difficulty making it enjoyable for both casual and rhythm game fans.
  • Compelling and likable characters, including a memorable robot cat companion.
  • Smooth and fluid animation that complements fast-paced combat.

Cons

  • No input offset calibration leads to frustrating timing issues for some players.
  • Platforming controls feel clunky and imprecise, affecting exploration enjoyment.
  • Story and writing are cheesy, predictable, and sometimes forced.
  • Audio desync in cutscenes disrupts narrative flow and immersion.
  • Voice lines occasionally lag, causing delays during fully voiced dialogue.
  • Gameplay can become repetitive due to simplistic combo mechanics.
  • Limited depth in combat combos reduces long-term engagement.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Test your abilities in two new game modes, uncover new rewards and even a few secrets in the Arcade Challenge! Update! Feel the beat as wannabe rockstar Chai and his ragtag team fight against an evil megacorp in a world that syncs to the music.

Release Date Jan 25th 2023
Publisher Bethesda Softworks
Developer Tango Gameworks
Platforms

User Reviews

Overwhelmingly Positive (15,516)
98% Positive 2% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
90