The Taiko no Tatsujin franchise is synonymous with cheerful visuals, infectious beats, and rhythmic gameplay, and Taiko no Tatsujin: Rhythm Festival continues this legacy with flair. Developed by Bandai Namco, this entry in the series delivers a vibrant, rewarding rhythm experience packed with adorable charm and engaging gameplay modes. But while it’s a delight for returning fans and newcomers alike, some aspects, like its reliance on paid content, strike a slightly discordant note.
Adorable Chaos: Visuals and Design
From the moment you boot up Rhythm Festival, it’s impossible not to be charmed by its whimsical world. Omiko City bursts with vibrant colours, cute animations, and lovable characters like Don-chan and the newcomer Kumo-kyun. Even loading screens ooze charm, making the game feel alive and brimming with personality. For fans of the series, this entry doesn’t miss a beat in delivering its signature aesthetic.
The story mode—though simple—adds a layer of heart to the game. As Don-chan befriends Kumo-kyun, their playful interactions and unfolding surprises make the journey lighthearted and fun. It’s an ideal backdrop to the rhythmic action, giving you just enough narrative to stay engaged and give a good sense of progression, while keeping the focus on gameplay.
Gameplay: Accessible Yet Addictively Challenging
At its core, Rhythm Festival nails what Taiko no Tatsujin fans love most: hitting taiko drums in time with the beat of catchy tunes. Whether using the dedicated drum controller (which is highly recommended for a more intuitive and immersive experience) or the DualSense controller, the gameplay is just as delightful and satisfying as ever. However, playing without the drum controller does diminish the tactile joy of drumming.
Newcomers will appreciate the Improvement Support feature, which allows players to practice songs at a slower tempo before tackling them at full speed. This lowers the barrier to entry, making even challenging tracks like Attack on Titan’s opening theme feel conquerable over time.
The diverse game modes also keep things fresh. Classic Taiko Mode offers difficulty levels suited for all players, while Great Drum Toy War adds a fun strategic twist, letting you sabotage opponents with simple power-ups. Online ranked matches and party modes expand the game’s multiplayer appeal, while the robust single-player experience ensures hours of fun, even if you prefer drumming solo.
The Carrot and Stick of Gamification
Gamification is baked into every corner of Rhythm Festival. From unlocking accessories to customising Don-chan’s outfits (yes, you can even have a famous companion such as Persona 5’s Morgana or a Monster Hunter Palico), the game constantly dangles rewards to keep you engaged. Progressing through the story or levelling up your Drum Level gradually unlocks more content in the in-game store, ensuring a steady drip of dopamine as you play.
However, this relentless rewarding system might leave some players feeling numb over time, as everything seems designed to keep you hooked. While it’s undeniably engaging, the sheer volume of positive reinforcement can sometimes feel a bit excessive.
The Elephant in the Room: Subscription Content
The game launches with a solid setlist of 76 songs, featuring everything from anime classics to classical pieces. But it’s hard to ignore the push toward the Taiko Music Pass, a subscription service unlocking over 500 additional tracks. While the base game offers plenty to enjoy, the emphasis on paid content might frustrate players who already shelled out full price for the game. The subscription model is a double-edged sword—great for die-hard fans wanting a massive library but a potential sore spot for casual players.
Strengths and Weaknesses
What Hits the Beat:
- Vibrant Presentation: Adorable animations and colourful visuals make every moment a joy.
- Diverse Game Modes: From party games to ranked battles, there’s something for everyone.
- Beginner-Friendly Tools: Improvement Support eases new players into the rhythm.
- Rewarding Customisation: Unlocking outfits, nameplates, and accessories adds personal flair.
Where It Misses:
- Subscription Pressure: The heavy reliance on a paid subscription for additional songs might alienate some players in the long run.
- Controller Experience: Playing without the drum controller feels less intuitive.
- Repetitive Rewards: Gamification can feel overbearing at times.
Verdict: A Drumming Delight with a Few Flat Notes
Taiko no Tatsujin: Rhythm Festival is a joyful celebration of rhythm gaming. With its charming visuals, varied gameplay modes, and accessible mechanics, it’s a must-try for rhythm fans, whether solo or with friends. While the push toward subscription content and the lack of innovation may deter some, the game’s heart and personality shine through.
For newcomers and veterans alike, Rhythm Festival promises hours of toe-tapping fun. Just make sure to grab the Taiko drum controller for the full experience—it’s worth it.
