When I first laid eyes on the trailer for Hi-Fi Rush, it captured my attention instantly-imagine the vibrant style of Jet Set Radio melded with the fast-paced, brutal combat of the classic God of War series. As someone who's a fan of both the art and the developers, Tango Gameworks, the allure was undeniable. However, I hesitated to jump in initially, primarily due to my preference for the PlayStation controller, especially for a rhythm-focused game. My excitement reignited when it was announced for the PS5, and I finally dived in after Microsoft closed down Tango Softworks, eager to experience this unique title.
The story follows Chai, a 25-year-old who dreams of being a rockstar but instead finds himself embroiled in turmoil at Vandelay Technologies during a cyborg limb replacement program. Rather than simply becoming a test subject, an unexpected turn of events grants him powers, thrusting him into a battle for his freedom and the liberation of others in a sprawling technological metropolis. I won't spoil anything else-I'll just say that this narrative provides a compelling backdrop for the stunning visuals and engaging gameplay that follows.
Hi-Fi Rush is essentially a platformer with robust combat mechanics that brilliantly incorporate rhythm. Players are encouraged to time their attacks to the beat of the music, which adds an engaging layer to the combat. Fortunately, you don't need to hit every note perfectly to deal damage, a relief for someone like me who struggles with rhythm. The game offers plenty to explore, with hidden collectibles that unlock upgrades while you traverse vibrant, beautifully crafted levels that get better as you progress. Each area is filled with a variety of robot enemies, each presenting unique challenges and mechanics, which keeps combat fresh and engaging throughout.
While the combat is reminiscent of earlier God of War titles, it's tempered with a playful style that never feels overly violent. Still, I found myself challenged by the dodging mechanics, which require precise timing to avoid enemy attacks. There are moments where quick-time events come into play, and I often found myself grappling with their precision. These segments can feel a bit punishing if you're not quick on the draw, but they do ramp up the excitement.
What truly sets Hi-Fi Rush apart is its narrative and the companions that accompany Chai on his journey. Each character is well-written, sporting distinct personalities and motivations that make you genuinely care about their development throughout the game. The interactions during downtime in their hub serve to deepen immersion, creating a palpable connection between the player and the game world. It's a heartfelt experience that stands out; in an age of many solid titles, this one truly shines for its emotional weight.
Visually, the game employs a cel-shaded art style that gives it a hand-drawn feel, helping it stand the test of time aesthetically. The soundtrack deserves special mention, too-its importance within the game cannot be understated, setting the perfect tone and enhancing the experience. I was pleasantly surprised to find contributions from artists like Billy Corgan, which further elevated the enjoyment. The sound design, from sound effects to voice acting, is top-notch and complements the gameplay seamlessly.
The game spans about 12 hours, a length that felt just right for the experience it offers. While it's unfortunate to see what happened to Tango Softworks, I'm relieved to know the studio was bought by another company, and I sincerely hope for a sequel. If they continue in this vein, I would be eager to buy it without hesitation.
Overall, Hi-Fi Rush is a remarkable title that brings together a rich narrative, engaging gameplay mechanics, and an impressive artistic style, all infused with heart. I'm awarding it a 9/10.
