Description:
It's tough to play a game like Britney's Dance Beat and not hear the pitch, "It's like Dance Dance Revolution, only with all Britney, all the time!" But despite the Britney Spears corporate Hydra compelling cynical viewers to look elsewhere, it's nearly impossible not to like this game. Players watch Tetris-like arrows fall into place and must hit the matching keys in quick combinations. The dancers respond to these instructions, translating them into Britney-inspired dance moves (e.g., the snakelike arm movements featured in her Slave 4 U video). Because it's difficult to simultaneously watch the arrows and the dancers, the game provides "Perfect!" and "Stylin'!" breaks within the auditions and performances. Hit the right combos and you get to sit back and watch Enrique (or any of the other dancers) do his thing. Capitalizing on Britney's own combination of aw-shucks Southern charm and urban dance grooves, this well-designed game is heartily recommended to the 8- to 12-year-old TRL set. Even if you don't fall within those parameters, there's enough kitsch to make the game thoroughly enjoyable. For example, the dancers have camo pants and totally ripped abs! The Saturday Night Fever disco floor stops for no one! Who looks more real, TV "real-life" Britney Spears or computerized, shadow-self Britney? (Hard to tell.) It's a game that's a conversation starter, and likely to win over all but the most hardhearted. --Jennifer Hauseman Pros: - Simple, easy-to-learn game design
- Every key combination is mapped to a unique gesture
- Britney trivia and other must-see elements for fans
Cons: - Dancers and music aren't in sync with background videos
- Too short--only 6 challenges
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