Dance Dance Revolution: Ultramix with Dance Pad
Score: 90% ESRB: Everyone Publisher: Konami Developer: Konami Media: DVD/1 Players: 1 - 4 Genre: Rhythm
Graphics & Sound: First and foremost, Dance Dance Revolution is all about the music. Without it, you are just jumping around like a jackass on a foam pad. This makes discussing the graphical presentation of Dance Dance Revolution: Ultramix rather pointless since there is not a lot you can do with arrows. Backgrounds are where most of DDR's visuals come in. The backgrounds are full of images and color that fit the beat of the music while not becoming too distracting, although the girl-girl video that flashes during a particular song tries it's hardest (don't worry parents, it's nothing dirty). I'll put this right out there, I'm not a big fan of techno or club mixes of songs. It's just not something I like. With that in mind, I didn't particularly like the music selection in DDR: Ultramix. The music that is in the game is not bad by any stretch of the imagination; it's just not what I like. One of the newer things the Xbox version brings to the table is the ability to download new songs via Xbox Live. So, if you are one of those people who is able to blast through all the original songs, you can now download new tracks. A Bonus Tracks pack is already available for download via Xbox Live and more are planned in the future. The downside is that each pack of five songs costs five dollars to download -- which is a bit of a downer in my opinion.
Gameplay: There is no epic storyline, no hidden evil trying to take over the world - it is just you, a bunch of scrolling arrows and music. Dance Dance Revolution: Ultramix is the series' first foray onto the Xbox. Overall, little has changed from the other editions of the game available on the PSX, PS2 and Arcades. For those unfamiliar with the series, DDR challenges a player's coordination and foot skills. Music plays in the background and arrows scroll up from the bottom of the screen in time with the music. It is the player's job to hit the arrows in time with music. This is done via a special dance pad that comes with the game, which allows your thumbs to take a rest and gives your feet something to do. Imagine playing a high-speed game of Twister while techno plays in the background, and you have got a pretty good idea of what you are in for. DDR: Ultramix offers several modes of play which include both single and multi-player aspects. The Arcade game mode allows you to choose songs from a list and dance. As you hit arrows at the correct time, a meter goes up and you gain points. Failing to hit arrows decreases the bar. If the bar becomes red or empty, you lose. After your performance you are graded on how many combos you were able to pull off, as well as your accuracy in hitting arrows. Challenge mode gives you specific tasks that you must complete before moving on to the next song. Battle mode is a neat two-player game where players can compete for the highest score or in a Last Man Standing competition. Multiplayer games can also be played online via Xbox live. The game pad even includes a port and extension cord for the Xbox communicator. However, this adds an addition hazard to playing the game since it is possible to get a leg tangled in the extra long cord. The mode that should get parents and weight watchers' attention is Workout mode. When you enter this mode, you input your weight and the game will then tell you how many calories you are burning as you play the game. The game will even tell you what those equate to in terms of time spent jogging, swimming or jumping rope. This mode also includes a 'Workout Step' mode that makes the song patterns easier to complete. These are meant to warm you up and cool you down after a workout. Finally, DDR: Ultramix offers an editing option for players who want to mess around with the music. This option allows you to alter and edit any of the songs in the game.
Difficulty: How well you do in the game depends greatly on how coordinated you are. This game is not for the clumsy or aloof. This doesn't mean that you still won't be able to enjoy the game, since there is a Beginner setting. Pros will want to go for the harder settings. Overall the game is enjoyable; although even on some of the easier songs it seems like you need a third leg or tail to complete some of the patterns.
Game Mechanics: Understanding the basics behind DDR isn't difficult. Arrows scroll, you step on that arrow on the dance pad. Arrow patterns and combos increase in difficulty level with the difficulty level of the song. DDR MAX introduced 'freeze arrows' to the game, an addition which is still alive and well in Dance Dance Revolution: Ultramix. Freezes mean that you have to hold your foot on an arrow for a given amount of time. Although it may sound easy, hitting Freeze combos takes skill. Throw in the usual arrow presses, and the game just got even more interesting. The dance pad that comes with the game is very well made and, in my opinion, one of the best pads I've played on in awhile. The traction on the bottom of the pad is great and keeps it from slipping. I was also pleased with the response I got from the pad and never found myself stepping on a button and not having it register. Hardcore players will want to invest in a sturdier metal pad, but these are pricey and not recommended for casual players. All in all, DDR: UltraMix is just as good as its previous versions. If you've ever wanted to try out the game, this is your chance to try it out in the privacy of your own home (with all the doors locked and blinds shut). The addition of an online mode is also welcome, although the pay-to-download aspects may turn off some players.
-Starscream, GameVortex Communications AKA Ricky Tucker
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