The Metronomicon: Slay the Dance Floor (2016)

This is a straightforward title. It is a rhythm game with RPG elements. If combining those two gaming concepts sounds interesting to you then you will likely enjoy this title, at least to some degree. But rhythm games are not for everyone, and this one has a bit of a learning curve that could frustrate new players. If you are looking for a quick opinion to help you decide if you want to buy this game or not then that’s about it. But for the curious here are some of my own experiences with the game:

--The Good--

This game does not break any new ground as a rhythm game or an RPG. The sound track is fun and (obviously) favors dance music, without necessarily blowing me away. There is enough variety to it that I’m never quite sure what the next song will sound like or play like. And as long as you hit the controller at the right time, making use of both the d-pad and the face buttons for more complex beats, you will generally progress. This game was made with dance mats in mind though, so don’t expect any interesting types of button presses like you see with Rock Band or Cytus.

The RPG elements are present, and they do require some strategizing when it comes to putting together your party and deciding your skill and item load outs. But there is nothing too interesting or experimental here either. That means you won’t be unhappily surprised, just don’t expect a deep or meaningful RPG system.

--The Bad--

It took some time and some fiddling with the game settings before I could really enjoy this title. When I first started I missed every single note. I had to calibrate my controller’s latency, change the speed that notes were displayed, and then just practice several easy songs over and over before things started to click for me and I felt like was starting to get in to the game. I did get there, but it was just not as simple as playing Crypt of the Necrodancer where everything worked right from the start. I’m not the only one to report these kinds of problems either, so be ready for that settling in period where you have to get very familiar with the game options and settings.

--The Verdict—

Second verse, same as the first (ha, music joke). This game is definitely a rhythm based RPG. Its solid and predictable. And that’s fine. Not every game needs to blast apart the mold to have worth. I will definitely be coming back to this game from time to time. Just manage your expectations going in, and make sure you play for a while before investing in any of the numerous DLC music packs.