Taiko no Tatsujin: Rhythm Festival drums its way onto the PlayStation 5, bringing the colorful and rhythmic charm of Bandai Namco’s beloved game to Sony’s console for the first time after its successful initial launch. Set in Omiko City, the game mixes classic rhythm-based gameplay with party modes and online features, aiming to cater to both solo players and groups. With its mix of new content and familiar mechanics, it’s a great entry point for newcomers while offering something fresh for seasoned rhythm game fans as well.
At its core, Rhythm Festival retains the series’ straightforward but addictive drumming gameplay. Players hit notes in time to the beat, using traditional drum controls or (in most people’s cases) a controller. With four difficulty levels, it strikes a balance between accessibility for beginners and a challenge for veterans. The PlayStation 5 version benefits from smoother performance and faster load times compared to the Switch version released earlier, ensuring that the action remains fluid even during the most intense songs.
The song list is one of the game’s standout features, with 76 tracks spanning anime, pop, game music, and more. The variety is impressive, catering to a wide range of musical tastes, though unlocking additional songs through the Taiko Music Pass subscription might feel restrictive for those who prefer a more traditional approach to content availability. On the bright side, with over 700 additional tracks available through the pass, the potential library is enormous for those willing to invest.
Beyond its core drumming experience, the game introduces party modes like Great Drum Toy War, Don-chan Band, and Run! Ninja Dojo. These modes provide multiplayer-focused fun that feels fresh, though they lack the depth of the main drumming mechanics. Great Drum Toy War in particular stands out for its strategic element, which adds a layer of variety to the gameplay. Meanwhile, the online multiplayer modes allow players to challenge opponents worldwide or team up with friends, extending the game’s replayability and lasting appeal.
Visually, Rhythm Festival bursts with charm, thanks to its bright, cartoonish art style and lively animations. Omiko City is a cheerful backdrop, and the interface is as inviting as ever, with its playful design appealing to players of all ages. The audio quality also shines, with clear and dynamic sound effects complementing the extensive song selection. However, the game’s presentation hasn’t evolved much beyond previous entries, which might disappoint players looking for a more substantial graphical overhaul on the PlayStation 5.
The controls, a critical aspect of any rhythm game, perform well across different input options, though drum controllers are going to be a bit harder to find for the PS5. While standard controllers work well enough, they can’t fully replicate the tactile joy of drumming that defines the series. This limitation is likely to affect players who are accustomed to the arcade-like experience of the drum peripherals that are more widely available on other platforms.
Taiko no Tatsujin: Rhythm Festival is a joyful celebration of rhythm gaming, offering a rich and varied experience that appeals to a broad audience. While the subscription model for additional songs and the absence of a drum controller on PlayStation 5 may leave some wanting, the game’s strong song lineup, fun multiplayer modes, and polished gameplay ensure it remains a standout in the genre. For newcomers and fans alike, this PlayStation 5 debut is a lively and entertaining showcase of what makes the Taiko no Tatsujin series so beloved.
Score: 8.0/10
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