Beat Saber

Rhythm games and VR friendly games have both had a touch time winning over the mainstream gaming community. While those that love these games are a loyal and dedicated bunch, it has to be said that it’s a rather small collective of gamers. So the decision from Beat Saber to combine these two entities, creating a musical rhythm revolution with light saber functionality seemed equal parts ambitious and audacious.

Beat Saber plays much like other rhythm games such as Guitar Hero, Rock Band, Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory, Parappa the Rapper, Dance Dance Revolution. However, aims to set itself apart with hands on, VR light saber functionality, giving players a tactile connection to the music they are slicing to bits. However, is this concept as good in practice as it is on paper? We find out in our review of Beat Saber.

A Musical Hack and Slash

Let’s begin with the overall gameplay. Now, you might think that with random projectiles flying at you and your only goal being to slice them Fruit Ninja style would be intimidating. However, the mechanics are simple and easy to understand. Yet complex enough that you will need to pour hours into this game to master them. There is a great progression system represented through the songs on offer, which allow players to hone and refine their skills without ever overestimating the player.

Then as for the songs themselves, they are superb and a joy to play through. The range of fast-paced, progressive techno and electronic tunes lend themselves to the high octane action on screen and the twitch reactions you’ll need to pull out of your repertoire to beat each section. Plus, each song is clearly labelled, allowing players to analyse the differences between that and other songs on the roster, allowing them to gauge if they are up to the challenge.

So really, the only thing that could let this down would be the VR functionality. However, we are happy to report that this is a joy to use as well. The VR tracking is precise, allowing players to make controlled and accurate movements without ever feeling like a mistake made was down to poor tech.

The Verdict

Overall, Beat Saber is the most intuitive, unique and brilliant rhythm game of the modern gaming era. Long gone are the days of plastic guitar peripherals and now we have virtual reality light sabers.

Pros:

• Flawless functionality
• Great tracks and progression system
• Presentation is clean and pristine

Cons:

• Limited musical selection