Review
Release Date: 09.20.2001
Platform:
PlayStationDeveloper:
Konami Computer Entertainment TokyoPublisher:
Konami Computer Entertainment Japan Co., Ltd.Reviewed by
Luke Campbell on 4.28.2003
The Dance Dance Revolution (DDR) series has always been a great source of both fun and exercise. However, after the similarities between
3rd Mix,
4th Mix, and
Extra Mix, the series was in danger of becoming stale. So rather than tinker with the near-perfect gameplay, Konami gave DDR 5th Mix a graphical upgrade. Characters are now cel-shaded, and the game zips along at 60 frames per second (FPS). These additions give the gameplay a smoother feel overall.
Solo, Challenge, and Endless Modes have all been omitted from 5th Mix. Nonstops are gone as well, but have been replaced by a few longer songs. These songs, which range from 3-5 minutes in length, take the place of two single songs during your game. So if you're playing a 5 song game, picking a long song as your fourth song also makes it your last one for that game. While not as long as a typical Nonstop, these long songs can be just as tough, stepwise.
The Gallery Mode in 5th Mix is new to the DDR series. Gallery Mode is a collection of photos, character models, and screenshots from the DDR series. There are 228 individual pictures to open, so opening them all will take considerable replaying of the game. But this is not a problem, because DDR 5th Mix is every bit as fun as the other installments in this fine series.
DDR 5th Mix comes recommended, just like the other games in the series. It's easy enough for beginners to pick up, but tough enough to challenge even the most seasoned DDR vets. It'll run you anywhere from $50-$70 new, so do some shopping around, and you might get a deal. But even at $70, 5th Mix is a worthwhile purchase. Get it.
