DanceMasters (or Dance Evolution, as it is also known) is a game that promises to revolutionize the dance game genre, bringing the ultimate dance club experience right into the comfort of your living room. Developed by GCP1 and published by Konami, this game is the pioneer of the franchise that kickstarted the dance game craze. However, while it may be a groundbreaking concept, the execution leaves much to be desired.
One of the standout features of DanceMasters is its use of the Microsoft Natal technology, which eliminates the need for any additional peripherals. This is a refreshing change from other dance games that require plastic mats or motion sensors. Now, players can simply use their own bodies to groove to the beat, immersing themselves fully in the game.
Unfortunately, despite its innovative concept, DanceMasters falls short in several areas. The gameplay mechanics feel clunky and unresponsive at times, making it difficult to execute precise dance moves. This can be frustrating for seasoned players looking for a challenge, as the game fails to provide the satisfying feedback and accuracy needed to truly immerse oneself in the experience.
The song selection in DanceMasters also leaves much to be desired. While there are a decent number of tracks to choose from, the variety and quality of the songs is lacking. They fail to capture the energy and excitement that dance music is known for, leaving players feeling uninspired and disconnected from the game.
In terms of graphics and presentation, DanceMasters does a decent job of creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere. The neon-lit dance clubs and colorful character designs exude a nostalgic feel, reminiscent of classic arcade games from the past. However, these visual elements are not enough to compensate for the game's shortcomings in other areas.
All in all, DanceMasters attempts to bring a fresh and exciting dance experience to the Xbox 360. While the use of Microsoft Natal technology and the nostalgic visual style may be appealing to some, the clunky gameplay mechanics and lackluster song selection make it difficult to fully enjoy this game. As a retro gaming enthusiast, I appreciate the effort put into DanceMasters, but unfortunately, it falls short of achieving the dance game greatness it strives for.
