Info about Taiko no Tatsujin: Rhythm Festival:

Official game description:
The Setlist Edition
===================
The Setlist Edition includes:  
\- Taiko no Tatsujin: Rhythm Festival  
\- Anime Songs Collection  
\- Pops Collection  
\- Vocaloid™ Songs Collection
About the Game
==============
Welcome to Omiko City, where everyone’s favorite Taiko elements come together in one place! Together with Don-chan, meet your new friend, Kumo-kyun and aim to become a Taiko Master!
Taiko Mode
----------
Drum along to the rhythm of your favorite songs and aim to play them from start to finish! Select from 4 difficulty modes.  
76 songs across multiple genres such as Anime, VOCALOID™, Game Music, and Pop are available in the game! Songs include Gurenge, My Neighbor Totoro - Ending Theme Song, Charles, MEGALOVANIA, Into The Night, Feel Special and many more! Have fun playing casually with another player or compete for the highest score! You can also use Improvement Support to help you improve your drumming skills!
3 types of party games for 1-4 players are available.
-----------------------------------------------------
\- Great Drum Toy War  
Play along to songs and deploy toys to push back your opponent's toys and aim for victory!  
\- Don-chan Band  
Work as a group of 4 to perform successful concerts!  
\- Run! Ninja Dojo  
Become a ninja and race with up to 4 other players! Overcome multiple obstacles as you compete for 1st place!
Online Matches
--------------
\- Online Ranked Match  
Challenge players from all over the world and aim for the top ranks!  
\- Room Match  
Play casually with friends and players from around the world in Taiko Mode and Great Drum Toy War!  
Have fun playing Taiko solo, or together with friends!
Taiko Music Pass
----------------
\- Join the Taiko Music Pass to access over 700 additional songs! New songs  
are added every month!  
\- Some songs are also sold individually.  
\*Another edition of this product is available. Please take care to avoid duplicate purchases.  
\*Taiko Mode and Great Drum Toy War can be played by up to 2 players. Don-chan Band and Run! Ninja Dojo can be played by up to 4 players. Each player needs 1 controller.  
\*This game is compatible with the Taiko no Tatsujin Drum Controller for Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC.

Release date: Nov 6, 2024

Categories: Rhythm Game, Music-based Gameplay, Multiplayer, Local Co-op, Party Game, Online Multiplayer

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 85; verdict: Predatory Monetization; summary: The game faces significant criticism for its monetization strategies, particularly the subscription model and DLC pricing. Users feel that the base game lacks sufficient content, pushing them towards additional purchases. The integration of monetization into the game design is also seen as predatory, leading to a negative user experience.
- Steam Deck: score 50; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The analysis of user feedback for the Steam Deck experience of the game reveals several key issues. The most significant problems include limitations with controller and keyboard functionality, technical issues such as screen tearing and input lag, and mixed performance reviews. These issues collectively impact the user experience and suggest that while the game has its strengths, there are notable areas for improvement.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $25.00 - $35.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence shows a consensus that the game is generally considered overpriced at its current base price of around 50 euros. Many users suggest waiting for a significant discount, such as 50% off, before purchasing. Some users find value in the game if they are big fans or plan to play extensively, but the general sentiment is that the base price is too high.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 350.0h
  - Story completion: 10.0h
  - Session length: 3.0h
  - Endgame: 200.0h
  - Reasoning: The evidence includes multiple references to extensive playtimes, such as 'ns版350多小时，ns第一代也350小时' and '200+ hours on Switch,' which suggest that players spend a significant amount of time on the game. Additionally, comments about gameplay and repeated purchases indicate a high level of engagement and replayability. These points collectively suggest that players invest a considerable amount of time to fully experience the game, including completing the main story and engaging in endgame content.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game is fun and addictive immediately due to its simple and engaging gameplay, but progression systems and repetitive tasks can be tedious.
  - Stance: Fun immediately
  - Anchor: N/A
  - Time to anchor: 0h 0m
  - Friction: Tedious progression systems; Repetitive tasks for unlocking rewards
  - Unlock drivers: Versatile training mode; Achieving higher ranks and maintaining combo streaks
  - Conditions: Playing with friends; Variety of modes available
- Player Archetypes:
  - Value-Conscious Rhythm Enthusiast (sale)
    - Motivation: Seeking high-quality rhythm gameplay at a reasonable price.
    - Playstyle: Critical and selective, focusing on getting the best value for their investment.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: rhythm game lover; Taiko fan
    - Reference games: Taiko no Tatsujin; Rhythm Festival
  - Casual Taiko Enjoyer (sale)
    - Motivation: Enjoying the game at a leisurely pace without heavy investment.
    - Playstyle: Relaxed and non-competitive, focusing on enjoyment rather than mastery.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: casual player; Taiko enjoyer
    - Reference games: Taiko no Tatsujin; Rhythm games
  - Competitive Ranked Player (buy)
    - Motivation: Mastering the game and competing against other skilled players.
    - Playstyle: Highly competitive, focusing on ranked matches and skill improvement.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: competitive player; ranked player
    - Reference games: Taiko no Tatsujin; Rhythm games with ranked modes


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Extensive song library (weight 0.47): The game offers a massive library of songs, especially through its subscription service. Players appreciate the wide variety and large number of songs available, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
- Highly praised rhythm gameplay (weight 0.41): The game is widely regarded as a top-tier rhythm game, offering enjoyable and addictive gameplay that caters to both casual and hardcore players. It is often compared favorably to other rhythm games and is considered one of the best in its genre.
- Positive gameplay feedback (weight 0.31): Players generally enjoy the gameplay, finding it fun, addictive, and smooth. The game is described as cute, enjoyable, and well-made, with solid performance and no delays.
- Value of music pass (weight 0.29): The monthly music pass is seen as offering good value, providing access to a large number of songs at a reasonable price. Many players find the subscription model cost-effective and beneficial.
- Authentic Taiko experience (weight 0.25): The game is praised for providing an authentic Taiko no Tatsujin experience on PC. It is considered the best way to play Taiko on PC, offering a close-to-arcade experience.
- Variety in game modes (weight 0.08): The game offers a variety of game modes and difficulties, adding to its appeal. Players appreciate the multiplayer options and unique game modes available.
- Enhanced experience with drum controllers (weight 0.07): Using drum controllers is recommended as it enhances the gameplay experience. Players find that drum controllers add to the authenticity and enjoyment of the game.

Common complaints:
- Subscription model issues (weight 0.43): The game employs a subscription model for accessing most songs, which may not appeal to everyone. This model requires a monthly subscription for the Music Pass, making it necessary for a full experience but potentially burdensome for some players.
- Limited song selection (weight 0.4): The game offers a limited number of songs initially, with many popular songs missing. A significant portion of the songs are behind paywalls or require additional purchases, such as the MUSIC PASS or monthly subscriptions.
- Matchmaking and multiplayer problems (weight 0.31): Players report poor matchmaking and difficulties finding online matches due to a low player population. The online multiplayer experience is often described as dead or empty, with few online opponents available.
- Cover songs instead of originals (weight 0.14): Many songs in the game are covers rather than original versions, which some players find disappointing. This includes a majority of J-POP songs and other tracks that are not as well-received as their original counterparts.
- Menu navigation and UI issues (weight 0.14): The game's menu navigation is described as slow, tedious, and annoying. The UI is considered bad and outdated, with cluttered menus and a lack of mouse navigation, making it difficult to navigate.
- DLC and song pack issues (weight 0.14): DLCs are considered not worth the price, with expensive individual song purchases and a poor selection compared to the Music Pass. Downloading songs from DLCs is also reported as tiresome.
- Difficulty and calibration problems (weight 0.14): Players report that the game has a high difficulty level, with some experiencing difficulty spikes. Additionally, offset calibration can be challenging and not precise enough, leading to frustration.
- Keyboard control limitations (weight 0.12): The game has limited keyboard controls and keybinds, which puts keyboard users at a disadvantage. The menu UI is designed more for controllers and drums, making it less convenient for keyboard and mouse users.
- Unclear and unknown songs (weight 0.07): The game includes a large number of unclear Namco original songs, which many players consider bad or unknown. This can be disappointing for those looking for more recognizable tracks.
- Missing songs and content (weight 0.06): Some songs from previous versions and arcade releases are missing in this game. Players also report that not all tracks from past games are present, leading to a sense of incomplete content.
- Ranked match problems (weight 0.06): Ranked matches are reported as not working or being unavailable. Players experience issues with the ranked mode, adding to the overall multiplayer problems.
- PC optimization issues (weight 0.06): As the first Taiko game on PC, it lacks keyboard optimization and is considered less convenient than PC arcade simulators. Players question the PC optimization.
- Playlist management difficulties (weight 0.05): Adding songs to playlists from the Taiko Music Pass tab is reported as unintuitive and difficult. This adds to the overall frustration with the game's UI and navigation.

Gameplay feedback:
- Rhythm game with drum mechanics (weight 0.31): The game is primarily a rhythm-based game with a strong focus on drum mechanics. It supports drum controllers and offers various modes, including training and party modes, with multiple difficulty levels.
- Subscription model for songs (weight 0.29): The game uses a subscription model for accessing a large number of songs. This includes a Music Pass system for temporary access to a vast library of songs.
- Online and local multiplayer (weight 0.19): The game features both online and local multiplayer modes, including ranked matches and casual lobbies. It supports online matchmaking and has an active player base.
- Customization options (weight 0.13): Players can customize their gameplay experience with various options, including button mapping, keyboard controls, and costume customization.
- Multiple difficulty settings (weight 0.12): The game offers various difficulty settings, allowing players to sort and choose based on their skill level. This includes high difficulty options and achievements tied to difficulty.
- Ranking and progression systems (weight 0.11): The game features ranking and progression systems, including a leveling system for Taiko, which allows players to track their progress and compete with others.
- Song selection and management (weight 0.1): The game features a song selection and management system, allowing players to choose and customize their songs. However, additional purchases may be required for more songs.
- Story and practice modes (weight 0.09): The game includes a story mode and various practice modes to help players improve their skills and progress through the game.
- Variety of songs and modes (weight 0.07): The game offers a wide variety of songs and game modes, providing a rich and diverse gaming experience.
- DLC integration (weight 0.04): The game supports DLC integration, which enhances the gameplay experience with additional content and features.
- User interface differences (weight 0.04): The game has some differences in its user interface, which may affect the overall user experience.

Performance notes:
- Performance issues and instability (weight 0.25): Players report various performance issues including frame rate drops, stuttering, and freezing during gameplay. These issues affect the overall stability and smoothness of the game.
- Graphical and visual issues (weight 0.18): Players report various graphical issues, including screen tearing, visual artifacts at high refresh rates, and general UI issues. Some of these issues can be mitigated with settings like vertical sync.
- Input lag and responsiveness (weight 0.13): There are mixed reports about input timing. Some players experience input lag and missed inputs, while others find the controls responsive and recommend calibrating them for better performance.
- Optimization issues (weight 0.08): Players mention sloppy optimization and various optimization issues, which can lead to performance problems and graphical glitches.
- Loading times and repeated loading (weight 0.07): Long loading times and repeated loading issues are frequently mentioned by players, affecting the overall gaming experience.
- Sound and volume issues (weight 0.04): There are reports of sound volume issues and delays on hit sounds, which can affect the overall audio experience in the game.
- Server and connectivity issues (weight 0.02): Some players experience server connectivity issues, which can disrupt online gameplay and multiplayer experiences.
- Save data bug (weight 0.02): There are reports of bugs related to save data, which can affect game progress and player settings.

Recommendations:
- Try alternatives or wait for sale (weight 0.16): Some players suggest trying other games like osu!taiko or waiting for a discount before purchasing this game.
- Ideal for rhythm game fans (weight 0.1): The game is highly recommended for those who enjoy rhythm and music games, provided they are okay with the subscription model.
- Beginner-friendly rhythm game (weight 0.07): The game is noted for being easier for beginners compared to other rhythm games, making it accessible for new players.
- Request for more songs (weight 0.06): There are requests for more songs, including specific artists and additional songs in the battle pass.
- Best Taiko experience on PC (weight 0.05): Many players consider this the best Taiko experience available on PC, offering smooth gameplay and nostalgic songs.
- Consider other versions or peripherals (weight 0.04): Some players recommend other versions of the game without the subscription model or suggest using the Switch drum peripheral for PC.
- Suitable for casual and competitive play (weight 0.03): The game caters to both casual players and those looking for a competitive experience.
- Try demo before buying (weight 0.03): It is recommended to try the demo or play for a short period before committing to a purchase.
- Modding for additional songs (weight 0.03): Players suggest modding the game to add more songs, enhancing the gameplay experience.
- Button customization needed (weight 0.02): Players have requested the ability to swap the controller's confirm and cancel buttons in-game for better customization.
- Skip results settings (weight 0.02): There is a suggestion to add settings to skip taiko points and crown points results for a smoother gaming experience.

Other player notes:
- Request for custom songs (weight 0.03): Players are suggesting the addition of a workshop or the ability to load custom songs.
- Won game from giveaway (weight 0.02): Some players received the game as a prize from a Taiko streamer's giveaway.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.25): Players are frustrated primarily due to the game's high cost, including expensive DLCs and a subscription model that locks many songs behind a paywall. Additional frustrations stem from technical issues such as performance problems, input delays, and bugs that affect gameplay. The user interface is also criticized for being poorly designed, making it difficult to navigate and select songs.
- Disappointment (weight 0.14): Players express disappointment with the game's pricing model, which includes a monthly music pass and expensive DLCs, making the overall cost high compared to the content provided. The limited number of songs available without additional purchases and the lack of significant improvements over previous versions also contribute to this sentiment. Additionally, the online multiplayer mode is often criticized for being inactive or dead, further reducing the game's value.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.13): Players are satisfied with the game's variety of songs and the overall gameplay experience. The availability of Taiko no Tatsujin on PC and the inclusion of a practice mode are also highlighted as positive aspects. Additionally, the value provided by the Music Pass and the continuous updates contribute to a satisfying long-term experience.
- Frustrated (weight 0.09): Players are frustrated with the high cost of additional songs and the drum accessory, as well as the requirement for a music pass to access many songs. Technical issues such as matchmaking problems, input delays, and account bans for using mods also contribute to this frustration. The limited number of default songs and the need for a subscription to enjoy the full game experience further exacerbate these feelings.
- Happy (weight 0.07): Players are happy with the game's availability on PC and the variety of songs included. The enjoyment of the gameplay experience, including the use of a drum controller and the continuous updates through the Music Pass, also contribute to this positive emotion. The overall value and fun provided by the game are highlighted as key reasons for happiness.
- Happiness (weight 0.05): Players express happiness about the game's availability on PC and the large number of songs included. The enjoyable gameplay experience, including the use of a drum controller and the high refresh rate support, also contribute to this positive emotion. The official release outside of Japan and the smooth performance further enhance the overall happiness.
- Excitement (weight 0.05): Players are excited about the game's availability on PC and the high-quality gameplay experience. The enjoyable mechanics, controls, and song variety, along with the positive learning environment, contribute to this excitement. The official release on Steam and the high FPS gameplay further enhance the overall excitement.
- Joy (weight 0.04): Players experience joy from the game's fun and addictive gameplay, as well as the extensive music selection. The enjoyable gameplay with a drum controller and the vibrant visuals contribute to this positive emotion. The availability of the official PC version and the favorite song implementations further enhance the overall joy.
- Anger (weight 0.04): Players are angry due to the high cost of the game and the perceived deceitful business model. The limited content and the need to buy a pass to access more songs, along with the poor quality of some songs, contribute to this anger. The high price for the number of songs and the lack of mod support further exacerbate these feelings.
- Love (weight 0.02): Players express love for the game due to its enjoyable gameplay and the charming character, Don-chan. The overall fun and cute aspects of the game contribute to this positive emotion. The awesome game experience and the super cute game elements further enhance the overall love for the game.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.02): Players enjoy the game for its fun and engaging gameplay experience. The variety of songs and the overall gameplay mechanics contribute to this enjoyment. The game is considered one of the best rhythm games known, further enhancing the overall enjoyment.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.02): Players feel nostalgia while playing the game, as it brings back memories of playing previous versions or in arcades. The familiar gameplay and songs from earlier versions contribute to this nostalgic feeling. The realization of aging and the history of the game series further enhance this emotion.
- Disappointed (weight 0.01): Players are disappointed with the lack of fresh content and the expensive music pass. The limited multiplayer content and the absence of popular songs and story mode contribute to this disappointment. The lack of modding support and the missing 4-player multiplayer further exacerbate these feelings.
- Hopeful (weight 0.01): Players are hopeful for the addition of specific songs and more content from certain artists. The high skill ceiling and the extensive musical selection contribute to this hopeful feeling. The potential for future updates and improvements further enhance this emotion.
- Satisfied (weight 0.01): Players are satisfied with the game's performance on Steam Deck and the overall fun gameplay experience. The positive aspects of the game, despite some missing features, contribute to this satisfaction. The enjoyable gameplay and the good value provided by the game further enhance this emotion.
- Excited (weight 0.01): Players are excited about the positive overall experience and the improvements in the PC version. The availability of an official Taiko game on Steam and the high-quality gameplay contribute to this excitement. The enjoyable gameplay experience and the high FPS gameplay further enhance this emotion.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0): Players are enthusiastic about the game being considered the best fitness game of the year. The enjoyable gameplay and the fun aspects of the game contribute to this enthusiasm. The overall positive experience and the game's quality further enhance this emotion.
- Caution (weight 0): Players advise caution regarding the subscription management to avoid unexpected auto-renewal. The need to manage the subscription carefully to prevent unwanted charges contributes to this cautious sentiment. The potential for unexpected costs and the need for careful management further enhance this emotion.
- Confusion (weight 0): Players are confused by unclear phrases in the game. The lack of clarity in certain game elements contributes to this confusion. The unclear instructions and the ambiguous game phrases further enhance this emotion.}