Review | Hi-Fi Rush

A short review

It's really hard for me to picture a better-looking cartoon-like game than Hi-Fi RUSH. This game is so pretty and full with details, it makes you want to explore every inch of it.

Tango Gameworks, a studio known for developing survival horror games like The Evil Within and The Evil Within 2, as well as the action-adventure game Ghostwire: Tokyo and the rhythm-based action game Hi-Fi Rush, has quite a diverse portfolio. Did you know about them? I'm a huge fan of The Evil Within titles, but I’ve never played Ghostwire: Tokyo or Hi-Fi Rush (mainly because Hi-Fi Rush was exclusive to Xbox). After playing this one, I definitely plan to try Ghostwire: Tokyo.

Hi-Fi Rush is a 2023 rhythm-based action game developed by Tango Gameworks and published by Bethesda Softworks. It was released on Windows and Xbox Series X/S on January 25, 2023, and later ported to PlayStation 5 on March 19, 2024. I’m so glad it was, because it's not often I play a game that leaves me in awe. If you think rhythm games aren’t for you, don’t be fooled by the label; imagine playing Jak and Daxter while smashing enemies to the rhythm.

Story and the characters

The game’s story follows Chai, a self-proclaimed "future rock star." His music player accidentally becomes embedded in his chest during an experimental cybernetic surgery at the notorious Vandaley Corporation, where the game is set. This gives him the ability to fight rhythmically and perceive the world through environmental synesthesia. Labeled a "defect," Chai is hunted by the corporation, but he bands together with new friends to defeat its executives and stop their plans.

Although it may sound simple and perhaps geared towards kids, I was fully immersed in the entire game. The story isn’t groundbreaking, but it’s paired with a great sense of humor and a fantastic cast of characters. The voice acting and music are top-tier as well. If you work as a software developer, QA, or in a related industry, you’ll probably appreciate it even more—especially when you read about automation within the company. If that’s part of your job, it will put a smile on your face. I know it did for me. Graphically, this game is a perfect cartoon, more visually stunning than most things I’ve seen.

Game design, exploration

Imagine PS2 platformers like Jak and Daxter—this game isn’t far from that description at all. In fact, it feels like playing some of the best games from that era, but with a fresh and fun twist of its own.

The game is packed with secrets and has strong replayability, as you unlock certain points after beating it. It feels like you're continuing even after finishing it, and because it’s so enjoyable, it makes perfect sense to play through the entire game again on a higher difficulty. The puzzles and level design are top-notch, with something constantly catching your attention or keeping you occupied. I absolutely loved what the game has to offer.

The minus would be a somewhat weird platforming. I had issues with reaching some platforms, the landing did't felt natural to me. I fell so much times due to this "issue", maybe they can polish it a bit more? That will probably not happen though. Also, not having some kind of run button is a weird choice.

Combat

After the first two levels, I thought it was going to get boring. It really doesn't. The game never becomes dull. You're constantly getting or unlocking new moves and specials, making it almost impossible to get bored. When you gain more allies, the gameplay becomes even more robust.

The whole premise of the combat is that the game runs in rhythm. Each level is set to a song, and enemies attack to the beat. When you combine light and heavy attacks, you need to strike in rhythm. Dodging and parrying are also done to the rhythm. Of course, you don’t have to stick to the rhythm, but when you do, you’ll earn better ranks, higher rewards, and just feel more in sync with the game. Boss fights and parry sequences are a lot of fun, though some of the parry moments can feel off—certain enemies just didn’t seem to sync right when they initiated them.

Side Content

There isn’t much to say here—you can destroy objects to collect in-game currency, which is used to buy moves for yourself or your allies, as well as new slots or chips to insert into them. You can also purchase upgrades for special move bars, health, and more.

Every stage offers some secret to be found, which is exactly what platforming adventures are all about, and I loved that aspect. I explored every inch of the game and plan to do it again on the highest difficulty.

Conclusion

When we get a game like this, let's not pass it up. I understand that it might not be for everyone, but for me, it was a fantastic experience that lasted 12-15 hours. It’s not priced at full retail, and supporting Tango Gameworks means something—I hope. I really want The Evil Within 3, and I definitely want a new Hi-Fi RUSH game. This was so awesome!

I encourage you to read all logs. Some stories are hillarious, some are just cool - either way, it's something to take note about. I usually don't invest so deep in lore, but here it just makes sense

When you think that the game offered everything, it just starts. The pacing is awesome, the locations as well... Just enjoy your time.

Chai is a rock star! You as well, this game will make you feel like one for sure.