| Console Game Reviews |
| Game Review: Dance Dance Revolution Mario Mix. |
| by Emma Glasscock |
| The only DDR title for Gamecube isn't quite at the level of others in the DDR series, but is still a relatively well-done, engaging game. |
Everyone's favorite Christmas-colored duo joins forces with Dance Dance Revolution for DDR: Mario Mix. While the first thought that comes to mind may be that Nintendo staff may be guilty of game design under the influence, this game has come together surprisingly well. As the first DDR game for the Gamecube, it opens DDR to those dependent on a single console, basically meaning that Gamecube fans have a choice between getting this game or spending an indefinite number of quarters (or going without, though for many that's not much of a serious option).
The game offers a range of difficulty levels. The easy mode really is easy, and, to the casual player, the hard modes really are hard. The game's two primary modes, Free Mode and Story Mode, offer a variety of songs/levels.
Story mode is the key to unlocking levels in Free Mode. Free Mode is simply a chance to pick and play any of the unlocked songs. The Story Mode plot isn't much to talk about, but it provides an endurance test with levels of increasing difficulty. The only real problem with this portion of the game is that the cut scenes between songs are annoyingly long, especially to those who have played it many times before attempting to beat difficulties. Perhaps this was intended to give the player a rest, but for the most part, it's just an annoyance. The Mini-Game Mode, much like Free Mode, give a chance to play a choice of the mini-games from Story Mode. None of these are particularly interesting.
In addition, the game offers a workout mode to keep track of calories, a record of new earned songs and mini games, and high score tables.
Fortunately, the game also offers a versus mode, which allows two (and only two) players to play together. Each player can be on separate modes, and can use any combination of mats and controllers. Not so fortunately, the game only comes with a single mat and extra mats are not readily available, making difficult for two players to dance together.
Dance Dance Revolution: Mario Mix is a rather addicting game, not for great music, which it is definitely lacking, but for the simple but difficult game play that has made the DDR franchise so ridiculously successful. For those with Gamescubes, it's definitely worth the price Plus, the exercise is always good.
Ayes
+ All the fun of Dance Dance Revolution for the Gamcube
+ Wide range of difficulty levels
+ Supports two-player game play
Nays
- Songs don't measure up to standard DDR quality
- Unexciting Story Mode |
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