These have been some excellent weeks for us, as DLC expansions for three of our favorite VR titles released in a very short timespan. Here’s a look at brand new content for Synth Riders, Beat Saber and Walkabout Mini Golf.
Synth Riders 80s Mixtape – Side A DLC review (Quest)
We’ve been playing and following Synth Riders for years now, but have rarely been more excited about a DLC release than this time, as the 80s Mixtape – Side A DLC takes a nostalgic trip back to the 1980s with arguably the best-known tracks for Synth Riders thus far. This features five chart-toppers, such as “Take On Me” by A-ha, “Whip It” by DEVO, and “We Built This City” by Starship.
Fans of that era should waste no time in grabbing this pack and they’ll have a lot of fun with it, though condensing the essence of an entire decade into just five tracks will also leave enthusiasts longing for a more extensive selection – perhaps when a Side B launches? Nevertheless, even tough it’s low on content, the DLC succeeds in capturing the essence of the ’80s, with a stellar soundtrack that fits well with the immersive gameplay experience of Synth Riders.
The addition of the new Endless Café stage, which is available free to all users, further enhances the base game, offering players a fresh environment to play with. Visually, Synth Riders has a look and feel that transports players to an immersive ’80s-inspired world filled with vibrant colors and dynamic visuals – perfect for the era.
Overall, the 80s Mixtape – Side A DLC for Synth Riders offers a short but sweet journey through the musical landscape of the 1980s, showcasing a handful of the decade’s most iconic hits in a virtual reality setting. While the limited selection of tracks may leave enthusiasts craving more, the DLC delivers an immersive and enjoyable experience and feels like a new direction for Synth Riders that we’d love to see more of!
Beat Saber Hip Hop Mixtape DLC review (Quest)
Beat Saber’s latest DLC, the Hip Hop Mixtape, dives into the vibrant world of hip hop with a curated selection of tracks that tap into the genre’s rich history. Published by Beat Games, this mixtape features iconic artists like 2Pac, Nicki Minaj, Snoop Dogg, and Eminem, delivering a diverse range of songs that span different eras and styles within hip hop. From Dr. Dre’s “Nuthin’ But A “G” Thang” to the infectious energy of Outkast’s “Hey Ya!”, the tracklist aims to offer something for fans of all hip hop subgenres.
Having said that, we did feel that the song selection was a bit unexpected. Despite having some of the biggest names in the genre, the absence of many of their biggest hits or classic tracks can leave hip hop enthusiasts wanting more. But although people will argue the “best of” status of the selection, the DLC succeeds in showcasing a variety of artists and songs that complement the gameplay experience of Beat Saber well.
In terms of gameplay mechanics, the Hip Hop Mixtape introduces new content and features. The addition of an “Explicit Lyrics Toggle” provides flexibility for players to customize their experience, enhancing accessibility for a wider audience. Visually, the DLC offers a fresh environment inspired by urban landscapes, complete with basketball courts and subway stations. The graffiti-laden backdrop and moving chains of rectangles evoke the aesthetic of hip hop culture, feeling like something fresh compared to other Beat Saber backdrops.
The Hip Hop Mixtape DLC for Beat Saber takes players into the world of hip hop, offering them the chance to slash to the beats of their favorite tracks in an immersive VR setting. While the song selection may not align with everyone’s expectations, the DLC provides an opportunity to explore the diversity of hip hop music across subgenres and decades. Whether you’re a fan of classic hits or contemporary songs, Beat Saber’s Hip Hop Mixtape offers a unique new take for VR rhythm game enthusiasts.
Walkabout Mini Golf – Venice DLC review (Quest)
Walkabout Mini Golf’s Venice DLC takes players on a romantic journey through the picturesque canals and historic landmarks of one of Italy’s most beloved destinations for a charming mini golfing experience set against the backdrop of Venice’s iconic scenery.
One of the standout features of the Venice DLC is its stunning visual design, featuring everything from gelato shops to gorgeous piazzas. If you’re familiar with the city, then you’ll notice that each hole is meticulously crafted with details that capture the essence of Venice’s unique charm. The ambiance and lighting add to the immersive experience, making players feel as though they’ve been transported to the city themselves – minus the massive crowds you’d see in real life.
While the course itself may not pose significant challenges (it’s one of the easier DLCs thus far), its focus on providing players with a relaxing and enjoyable experience shines through. The addition of a boat ride along the Grand Canal (also a must-do in a virtual visit to Venice, it seems) adds to the sense of exploration and adventure, allowing players to soak in the sights and sounds of Venice at their own pace.
As the content list for Walkabout Mini Golf keeps growing, the Venice DLC stands out with its immersive environment, satisfying course design, and nostalgic appeal for those who have visited Venice. It may not innovate or challenge players with its core gameplay, but the DLC succeeds in capturing the essence of one of Italy’s most beloved destinations, and not having been there (in real life) in over a decade we had a blast playing golf among the virtual streets and canals of Venice.
Press Play Media 