Rhythm-based first-person shooters are a bit of rare breed within the genre, but ROBOBEAT joins this growing subgenre with a distinctively colorful and energetic take. Originally launched on PC, the game has now made its way to PlayStation 5, bringing its blend of high-speed action and synchronized shooting to console players. Developed by Simon Fredholm and published by Kwalee, this roguelike shooter challenges players to move and attack in sync with the music, making for a gameplay experience that is both engaging and demanding.
The premise is simple yet stylish: players take on the role of Ace, a bounty hunter chasing down the eccentric robot showman Frazzer in his neon-lit techno-playground. The narrative is kept light, serving primarily as a backdrop for the game’s real draw, being its high energy rhythm-based gameplay. Players must shoot, slide, wall-run, and bunny hop in time with the beat, maximizing their efficiency in combat while maintaining constant motion.
The gameplay loop is built around procedurally generated levels, ensuring that no two runs feel exactly the same. Weapons and modifications change frequently, keeping the experience fresh while challenging players to adapt on the fly. Precision and timing are key, as firing off-beat results in weaker attacks and longer cooldowns. This system is rewarding when mastered but can feel punishing for those who struggle to maintain rhythm, making the game more demanding than a traditional shooter.
One of ROBOBEAT’s standout features on PC was its custom music support, allowing players to import their own tracks and have the game generate beats accordingly. Sadly it’s not easy to implement that on console, but luckily the game’s default soundtrack is already strong, featuring a pulsating electronic score that perfectly complements its fast-paced action.
The controls are tight and responsive, a crucial aspect for a game that relies on precise movement and rhythm. The PlayStation 5 version’s performance is smooth, with fluid animations and stable framerates, though there are occasional moments where the timing of inputs can feel slightly off – or maybe that’s our sense of rhythm. The platforming elements, such as wall-running and grappling, add verticality to the experience but can sometimes feel finicky, especially when trying to chain multiple moves together in quick succession.
Visually, the game embraces a vibrant, cel-shaded aesthetic that enhances its futuristic setting. The neon-soaked environments react dynamically to the music, reinforcing the game’s audiovisual synergy and energy. While the art style is striking, some enemy designs feel a bit repetitive over extended play sessions. The audio design, on the other hand, is a major highlight, with weapon sounds and enemy cues integrated seamlessly into the beat-driven combat.
As a roguelike, ROBOBEAT encourages replayability, but its difficulty curve can be steep, especially for newcomers to rhythm-based shooters. While upgrades and unlocks provide incentives for multiple runs, the game’s reliance on precise timing might not appeal to all players. Still, for those willing to embrace its unique mechanics, the challenge is immensely satisfying once things click.
ROBOBEAT is a stylish and innovative shooter that successfully merges fast-paced FPS action with rhythm-based mechanics. Its responsive controls and energetic soundtrack make it a standout experience, though its demanding gameplay and occasional platforming frustrations might deter some players. For those looking for a fresh take on the genre, this is a game worth tuning into.
Score: 8.0/10
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