Just over a year since I originally reviewed Hi-Fi Rush for Xbox and the game is still holding strong. For those that are just getting a chance to play, your if for one hell of a ride.
A Continued Tale of Rhythm, Anime, and Comedy
If you just diving into Hi-Fi Rush for the time, here is a bit you need to know about the game from our original review. In Hi-fi Rush, you play as Chai, a wannabe rock star who becomes a test subject for Vandelay Industries. During the testing, a freak accident fuses his music player into his body; becoming a “power source.” After learning that Vandelay Industries plans on enslaving all humanity, Chai decides to use his new power to bring them down.
Hi-Fi Rush
Developer: Tango Gameworks, Bethesda Softworks
Platform: PS5, Microsoft Windows, Xbox, Xbox GamePass
Genre: Action game
Release Date: March 19th, 2024
After meeting 808, a robotic cat that talks, you find out the voice of the cat is Peppermint, an underground hacker who wants to stop Vandelay as badly as you do. As the story continues you find more joining the cause; including Macaron (a disgruntled employee) and his robotic assistant CNMN (cinnamon). This is when the story picks up, hitting that perfect spot that had me rushing through to the end…again.
With likeable characters, engaging plot, and continually impressive art style, Hi-Fi Rush is an easy game to enjoy more than once. Even just a year later since initial release, the art design, voice acting, and over-the-top comedic touch, make it clear it’s one of Bethesda’s best.
Some people might still be on the fence about this game because it’s rhythm base, but don’t let that deter you. PLAY THIS GAME! The rhythm-based gameplay pulls you into the world. I’m sure there are some who that think since you have to match attacks with the beat, the game would be difficult. It can be, at times, but a robust set of accessibility features that make the jump to the PS5 version can significantly help.
The point is, don’t let the rhythm aspect hold you back from one of the most entertaining action-based titles of the last physical year with Hi-Fi Rush. It’s like someone got a giant bowl and mixed Devil May Cry with Jet Set Radio.
We also can’t forget about the amazing music the game is connected to. Not only is there an amazing original track for the game, but we also get to attack our foes to the sounds of bands like Nine Inch Nails, The Black Keys, Prodigy, and more! It was already enough having the fast-paced blood-pumping music from Shuichi Kobori, Reo Uratani, and Masatoshi Yanagibut this the additional of some of these legendary bands makes this one of the the most bad ass sound track to play this game to.
Also, if you beat the game, make sure to listen to the “Secret Song” by Masatoshi Yanagi and John Johanas. You’ll thank me later.
Hi-Fi Rush on PS5 is a Front Row Ticket to this Concert of Love
With the game being out for over a year now on Xbox, PS5 users get to skip the wait for extra content/DLC. These aren’t just some added skins either. You’ll also get immediate access to Arcade Challenge! UPDATE! This update (introduced during last Summer) added a new arcade mode that puts your skills to the maximum test. The first Mode added in this update was the intense BPM Mode.
This mode pushes you to the limit far beyond what the story’s gameplay will. As you take on enemies in this mode, as you progress the Beats per minute (BPM) will speed up. Depending on your skill level, the game will challenge you as far as 200 beats per minute, which from experience is one hell of a ride.
The second mode is a new version of Power Up! Tower Up! Once you beat the game, you are rewarded with the power tower mode, but this new version starts you as a downgraded Chai that must upgrade as he climbs this Tower of Power. Lastly, PS5 players have access to the Photo Mode which comes with controls to change the look of Chai’s facial Expressions, clothes, picture frames, and more!
Hi-Fi Rush is an exceptional game and making the jump to PlayStation 5 hasn’t changed that. The animated graphics in the game are truly remarkable, and the fast-paced gameplay keeps you on the edge of your seat. The music in Hi-Fi Rush is another highlight, making it an immersive experience that transports you to another world.
This game is a perfect example of how gaming and geek culture can come together to create a masterpiece. Tango Gamework’s devotion to its fans is evident in every aspect of the game. The attention to detail and the level of care put into the development of Hi-Fi Rush is second to none.
