Rhythm

While traditionally the space of bigger developers (Rock Band, Guitar Hero, Taiko no Tatsujin & DDR), indie(-ish) developers have managed to carve out a nice niche for themselves in the Rhythm genre. Check out the best in the business here.

Updated November 17, 2020

#10 Muse Dash

One of the cutest titles is Muse Dash, a 2-lane entry with some Asian music, plenty to do and some interesting beats.

#9 SEQUENCE STORM

One of the most intense rhythm games that I’ve come across is Sequence Storm, where you probably need more fingers to play this well!

#8 DJMAX RESPECT V*

A not-so-indie entry, I’m impressed with the sheer number and range of tracks and crossovers in this long running series which finally makes its way to Steam.

#7 A Dance of Fire and Ice

This is a deceptively simple 1 button rhythm game, where you “simply” need to ensure that the rotating orbs land in the next square on a path on the beat, but there’s certainly more to it when it comes to challenge and fun!

#6 MUSYNX

MUSYNX is quite a standard note highway style rhythm game, but it has cool songs and the wonderful visuals makes it interesting.

#5 Spin Rhythm XD

If you miss DJ Hero, Spin Rhythm XD will bring back some of that magic. Spinning the dial is one of the most satisfying mechanics in this game, and it also supports a variety of controllers!

#4 Beat Saber

While I don’t normally cover VR titles, I have to give kudos to Beat Saber, a title that has spawned it’s share of YouTube videos. I’ve even heard anecdotal stories of people getting their mums into this game as exercise, which showcases the power of VR.

#3 BIT.TRIP Runner 2

The Runner series is near and dear to my heart since I actually started off the channel with an ill-advised Let’s Play of BIT.TRIP Runner 1 (since de-listed). Runner 2 remains my favourite because the 3D-ish movement of Runner 3 just felt off to me.

#2 Thumper

The “music” (if you can call it that) and visuals of Thumper is something to behold as this self-described Rhythm violence title has you crushing enemies to bombastic tunes, making it a one-of-a-kind must-play experience!

#1 Vectronom

Vectonom is a hidden gem of 2019 and is a simple-looking title where you move a cube to the end of the level. The catch is that the level itself moves and shifts on the beat which places you in a hypnotizing flow state.