Bethesda’s newest game isn’t a massive open-world RPG or shooter. It’s a slick, cartoony looking rhythm-based beat ‘em up. And to top it all off, they shadow-dropped it. Now, with beautiful graphics, fun characters, and top-notch gameplay, the first big stealth release of 2023 could make a serious run for Game of the Year.
Content Guide
There is some swearing using words you’ll probably hear on primetime television.
Chai is a happy-go-lucky goofball with the dream of becoming a rock star. Thinking they can make that dream a reality, he volunteers for a new Vandelay Technologies project. When something goes wrong an upgrade surgery, Chai awakens to the rhythm of the world around him and a new mechanical arm. Deemed a “defect” by the Vandelay staff, he’s marked for execution. Now, he’ll have to fight for his own freedom and something much, much bigger with the help of some sympathetic new friends, all of which I’d come to love by the time the credits rolled. Their personalities are great and the game has hilarious comedic chops.
Hi-Fi Rush features an addictive mix of beat ‘em up and rhythm-based gameplay. It’s like you combined Streets of Rage with Guitar Hero. As you progress, you can unlock new movies and special abilities to build out your combos. Your friends can offer their services mid-fight to take on shielded enemies, snuff out flames, and more. On top of all that, the rhythm-based attack-counters are a satisfying blast to execute. With varied level design, a dearth of enemies to conquer, and memorable boss fights, there’s rarely a dull moment to be found here.
Hi-Fi Rush is what you get when you take a top-notch animated movie, mix in some futuristic punk rock, and add a sprinkle of dynamic action. The colors pop as the world bounces to the music. The soundtrack is kickin’ and the voice acting is marvelously executed.
Hi-Fi Rush has proven companies can release smash hits without needing months of lead-up marketing. The story is good, the characters are great, and the gameplay is an addictive dopamine-delivery system that will keep you rockin’ and clockin’ long after the credits roll. This is our first real Game of the Year contender of 2023.
“I will sing of faithful love and justice; I will sing praise to you, LORD.” – Psalms 101:1
We've Got the Beat
The story is good, the characters are great, and the gameplay is an addictive dopamine-delivery system that will keep you rockin’ and clockin’ long after the credits roll. This is our first real Game of the Year contender for 2023