Hi-Fi Rush

That a game from a studio like Tango Gameworks came out of nowhere and was released the same day it was announced is surprising, especially considering how used we are to the long marketing campaigns that companies usually do before releasing their productions. But if that game is as fun, original and fresh as Hi-Fi Rush, the initial surprise becomes one of the greatest joys we've had as gamers in a long time.

The story of this new action-platform adventure puts us in the shoes of Chai, a crazy young man who dreams of becoming a rock star. However, after a freak accident, his heart is replaced by a music player that powers his robotic arm as it moves to the rhythm of the songs on his playlist. Unfortunately for him, this results in him being considered a defective product that a large corporation wants to eliminate, which leads him on a frantic odyssey in which he will have to face numerous robots and dangers in order to survive.

As you can imagine, the script doesn't take itself seriously at any point and is limited to being an excuse to justify all the comings and goings while delighting us with a recital of jokes and nonsensical situations. This is where we find one of its great strengths, as the adventure's sense of humour is fantastic and leaves no one with their head in the sand. You can expect plenty of parodies of games, films, series and memes, as well as a lot of social criticism and a brilliant cast of characters with an overwhelming charisma that never fails to break the fourth wall in ingenious and unexpected ways.

In terms of gameplay, this is a very classic action adventure with a nostalgic feel, reminiscent of the games of the 128-bit generation. The proposal is simple: progress through a series of linear levels, alternating combat in enclosed arenas with 3D and 2D platforming sectionsThere are also lots of hidden collectibles and upgrade items, and a large number of parts that can be exchanged in the shop for new moves, special techniques, items and chips that give you passive advantages.

The key factor that makes Hi-Fi Rush stand out and make it a very special game is the rhythm. Absolutely everything in this game moves to the rhythm of the music, from the animations of Chai and the enemies, to the platforms and the stages. This creates an infectious party atmosphere that, beyond the good vibes it conveys, helps us to keep the beat and measure the tempo in a very visual way.

Although the platforming is entertaining and the level design aims to be varied, it is in the battles where it shines the most. We have a simple control system that allows us to execute a good variety of combos combining weak and strong hits. The former are performed in a single beat, while the latter need two beats to complete the animation, which is crucial if we want to synchronise our actions with the music.

Regardless of how well or poorly we keep the rhythm, our hero will always move to the beat, although if we manage to press the buttons to the beat of the songs, we will increase our damage and final score, so banging on the controller without rhyme or reason is not recommended.

With all these elements, a combat system has been created that is fun, addictive and has a lot more depth than meets the eye. While the combo list is not extensive and there are no different types of weapons, the real magic lies in the enemy patterns and the need to keep up with them. For all intents and purposes, the battles in Hi-Fi Rush are more like a dance, where we must maintain our offensive by pressing buttons sequentially to the beat of the music, while blocking and dodging enemy attacks without missing a beat.

The bosses, long, varied and challenging, are a spectacle on every level, with multiple stages and different attacks that force us to use all our tools to survive. They're so good that we're left wanting more.

It also comes packed with content: unlockable difficulties, optional achievements and challenges, a challenge tower, secrets that remain locked until the second game, and collectibles that invite you to explore every corner of the stage.

It's a complete title with something for every type of player. If you just want to get through the story, you'll enjoy 10 great hours of platforming and combat to the beat of great tracks. If you want to get the most out of it, you'll find a product to spend dozens of hours perfecting your skills and improving your scores.

In terms of graphics, it has a style that makes everything look like a comic book in motion, especially in its impeccable video sequences. Although the scenery is sometimes simple, the art direction is fabulous, with style and personality, and the character design is outstanding. And all this at 60 fps.

The soundtrack, crucial in a game where rhythm is so important, has not been neglected, featuring a mix of new tunes and licensed tracks from bands such as The Prodigy, Nine Inch Nails and The Black Keys, starring in the best moments of the game. The sound effects help to keep up the pace, with high quality voices and performances, gives the characters a great personality and makes the jokes especially funny.

Hi-Fi Rush is a reminder of what we love about this hobby. A stylish adventure that offers pure, uncomplicated fun. A title that only needs us to pick up the controller to make us have a great time, without any external element or current trend getting in the way of its main objective: to entertain us. Video gaming in its purest form.