Episode 41 - Genre Review - Rhythm Games
Peter gets another special day while he and Mark discuss his bread and butter, the rhythm genre. This week covers everything from Simon back in the 80s up to Rock Band 4 and Beat Saber on modern home systems.
eXn Casual Corner
Episode 41 - Rhythm Games
Intro
Mark introduces with eConnXn mission statement
Introduce topics at hand
Origin Story
Definition
Modern Staples
Topic 1 - Origin Story
PaRappa The Rapper is often cited as the original popularize rhythm game being followed up shortly by Um Jammer Lammy as well as a PaRappa sequel. DDR followed in arcades shortly thereafter.
Beatmania followed in Japan and popularized Guitar Freak
Guitar Freak wasn’t marketed outside of Japan so Harmonix and Red Octane could control the American market with Guitar Hero and Rock Band
Can go further back to Simon in 1987
Can go eeeeeeeeeeven further back to an electromechanical game made in the 70s where you would lift a skirt to the rhythm of the music (Japan is weird)
Topic 2 - Definition
Challenge rhythm sensibilities through a series of button presses or even actual instruments
Electronic Drums, Fake Guitars, Controllers, or sound sampling from an actual instrument
Topic 3 - Modern Staples
Guitar Hero: Live
Originally a 5 Button guitar, then a 5 Button plus a touch sensor, then 2x3
Added Drums and Vocals with GH: World Tour
Rock Band 4
Original full band game after Harmonix moved on from Guitar Hero
Rocksmith
Connect actual instruments and get real time feedback on live playing
BeatSaber
Outro
Recap Headlines
Origin
Definition
Modern Staples
Mark delivers an encouraging and uplifting speech about loving your fellow gamer