Konami's latest Dance Dance Revolution game for Xbox, Dance Dance Revolution Ultramix 4, contains the same style of play and presentation seen in other DDR games. This may disappoint those looking for a drastic change to the party theme. Everyone else, however, won't mind putting on some dancing socks and stepping out.

Ultramix 4 boasts a wildly varied soundtrack with something for everyone. Hardcore DDR fans will get into a number of the more dedicated DJ mixes, provided by the likes of Juno Reactor, the Jungle Brothers and others. In addition, the game covers old-school music classics such as "Rock This Town" by the Stray Cats, Midnight Star's "No Parking On the Dance Floor" and "Dead Man's Party" by Oingo Boingo. Some contemporary favorites pop up, like a remix of the Pussycat Dolls' "Don't'cha" and Natasha Bedingfield's "These Words (I Love You)". Those who feel that the library isn't expansive enough can order additional song packs for $5 (six songs each), with 75 songs downloadable in all from Xbox Live.

Dance Dance Revolution Ultramix 4 offers accessibility for all ages and skill sets. Those who know DDR stuff can jump right into the game's Expert stages. However, the game accommodates amateur players as well. The Training Mode walks players through the Step Moves. From there, they enter Super Easy mode and slowly work their way up. This hand holding system may turn off veterans, but Konami gets points for inviting everyone to the party.

As for visuals, Konami went overboard. The company inserted stylish cel-shaded dancer animation and decent video clips, but this just clutters the screen. Some of the crazier backgrounds distract the player from paying attention to the scrolling arrows and the over-stylized menus cause the game to load slower.

At least Konami makes up for the visual overload with a variety of different modes. A brand new Quest Mode dominates as dancing wanna-bes set out to become some of the best in the world dancer. They start by dancing in the streets and work their way up through the clubs and more executive functions. As each challenge is completed, more songs and video clips become unlocked. The harder stages pack quite a challenge, even to seasoned DDR pros.

Thankfully, the game has plenty of other modes. Those with two dance pads and lots of friends will want to check out Party Mode, which contains mini-games that feature huge DJ mixes to boogie down to. Edit Mode and Workout Mode return once again from previous Ultramix chapters, allowing dancers to create their own moves and set up an exercise program to shed some pounds. Online Mode lets players hop online and dance against the competition, as well as upload content such as new dance steps and songs. Lastly, Jukebox Mode lets users play songs and videos without using the dance mat.

Considering that Dance Dance Revolution Universewill be released for the Xbox 360 early next year, Ultramix 4 marks the last DDR hurrah for the Xbox. Fortunately, the series ends on a high note. Quest Mode qualifies as a strong addition to the series and everyone, regardless of their dancing skill, will enjoy the varied soundtrack. The game offers nothing new, but it does what it needs to do. So get out there and dance -- there's no parking on this dance floor.

Related Links

Dance Dance Revolution Ultramix 4 game page

Konami home page

Our Final ScoreGood

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