After a decade-long hiatus, Rhythm Heaven returns with Groove, a vibrant collection of 80 new minigames that capture the series' quirky charm. While the core beat-tapping gameplay remains as addictive as ever, the new Beatspell RPG mode feels less polished, leaving room for improvement.
A Long-Awaited Comeback
The last Rhythm Heaven title released in 2015 on the Nintendo 3DS, primarily a compilation of past hits. Fans have eagerly awaited a truly new entry, and Groove delivers on many fronts. With composer Mitsuo Tsunku back on board, the soundtrack is as lively and eccentric as expected.
Minigames That Hit the Right Notes
During a recent preview, we played about 90 minutes of Groove, sampling two playlists and the Beatspell mode. The minigames showcase the series' signature blend of timing and chaos. In Hoop Trundling, players help egg-like joggers jump through hoops, requiring precise rhythm. Brolly Good Show has you popping umbrellas in sync, while Feeding the Beast involves eating plant seeds as a dinosaur. Disc Dog, where you catch frisbees as a canine, proved particularly challenging.
The most demanding minigame involved chopping tomatoes and peppers as a housewife, with vegetables flying at different speeds. This constant adaptation to shifting beats is where Groove excels, maintaining the tension that defines the series.
Beatspell: An Ambitious but Flawed RPG
Groove's standout new feature is Beatspell, a fantasy RPG mode where you cast spells by tapping buttons to the beat. While the concept is intriguing, the execution feels restrictive. Players are often forced into preset spell sequences rather than making strategic choices, limiting the sense of control. The visual prompts are clear, but the mode lacks the freedom seen in games like Paper Mario.
Despite these issues, Beatspell may improve with higher difficulty levels in the full release. For now, it feels like a side experiment rather than a core attraction.
Multiplayer Mayhem
The multiplayer modes are a highlight. In Cake Grab, up to four players compete to snatch a slice of cake, leading to chaotic fun. Ninja Bodyguards requires teamwork to deflect arrows and protect a temple, with heart arrows offering healing opportunities. These modes are ripe for competitive play and friendship-testing moments.
Overall, Rhythm Heaven Groove stays true to its roots, offering 80+ minigames that test your rhythm in creative ways. While the RPG mode doesn't quite hit the mark, the core experience is solid. The game launches exclusively for Nintendo Switch on July 2, 2026.
