ROBOBEAT's strong artistic direction, compelling gameplay loop, and excellent soundtrack make it a standout addition to the PS5 library
After making waves on PC, ROBOBEAT finally arrives on PlayStation 5, bringing its unique blend of rhythm-based shooting and roguelike elements to console players. As a mercenary working for Erasure Solutions, a company that wipes its agents' memories after each mission, you're tasked with hunting down Frazer, a mysterious robotic figure. What starts as a seemingly straightforward mission takes an unexpected turn when Frazer sends you plummeting down his building, forcing you to fight your way back up through procedurally generated rooms filled with hostile robots.
The game's narrative plays out through cleverly hidden secrets and cinematic rooms after boss encounters, where Frazer's messages and your character's memory flashbacks slowly piece together a deeper story. While the plot isn't the main focus, it provides enough intrigue to keep you engaged as you progress through the four main levels.
At its core, ROBOBEAT's gameplay revolves around shooting to the beat of the music. Landing shots in rhythm deals increased damage, creating a satisfying flow once you get into the groove. The combat system is enhanced by an impressive arsenal of 24 weapons, ranging from traditional firearms to more exotic options like a deadly ping pong paddle. Each weapon can be upgraded during runs, gaining additional effects like elemental damage or critical hit bonuses. You can carry two weapons at once, and mastering their different attack patterns and rhythms adds another layer of strategy to the gameplay.
However, if you are someone who doesn't like rhythm shooter games, you can disable the rhythm requirement entirely through "Chill Mode," allowing you to experience the game as a traditional FPS. This is great, but it doesn't mean that the game gets any easier. It is still very challenging, and you will need to practice to get through the game.
Power-ups further expand your combat options, with both offensive and utility abilities available. You can equip two at a time, creating interesting combinations like freezing enemies before unleashing devastating attacks. The game also features a parry system that lets you deflect projectiles back at enemies, though timing these defensive moves takes practice.
The roguelike elements come into play through the game's progression system. Each run gives you opportunities to find weapon blueprints and earn Blips, the game's currency, which can be spent to permanently unlock new equipment for future attempts. During runs, you'll find temporary upgrades and shop rooms where you can enhance your current loadout, making each attempt feel different from the last.
Boss battles punctuate your progress through the game, serving as skill checks that test your mastery of the combat systems. These encounters require both rhythm accuracy and tactical awareness, though you might also find them somewhat bullet-spongy in nature if your weapons are not up to snuff.
ROBOBEAT's level design encourages dynamic movement and creative combat approaches. Rooms vary in size and vertical layout, featuring wall-running opportunities and strategic positions to outmaneuver enemies. While the core architecture remains similar throughout, the changing enemy configurations and combat scenarios keep encounters fresh and challenging.
The game shines brightest when everything clicks together - when you're wall-running between platforms, parrying projectiles, and landing perfectly timed shots while flowing with the music. These moments of synchronization between gameplay and soundtrack create an almost euphoric feeling that few other games achieve.
However, while the game excels in many areas, it's worth noting that some runs can feel similar until you unlock a broader variety of weapons and abilities. The progression system requires patience, as the most interesting combinations and strategies only become available after multiple attempts. Also, on PS5 I found that the adaptive triggers of the DualSense controller quickly became annoying, as you need to press the triggers a LOT to shoot and after a while it's just too much.
Visually, ROBOBEAT stands out with its distinct neon-soaked aesthetic. I don't know how this type of visual style is called or even how to describe it, but it's kinda cool. The geometric enemy designs and minimalist environments create a striking visual identity that's both clear to read in combat and aesthetically pleasing. The PS5 version maintains smooth performance throughout, essential for a game requiring precise timing and quick reactions.
The soundtrack deserves special mention, featuring an eclectic mix of EDM, industrial metal, and other genres. The ability to choose specific songs before and during runs lets you tailor the experience to your preferred rhythm and intensity. Each track feels carefully selected to complement the gameplay, and the varying BPMs offer different levels of challenge.
ROBOBEAT's arrival on PS5 brings this unique rhythm-shooter to a new audience with style. Its blend of music-based combat, roguelike progression, and fluid movement creates an engaging experience that's both challenging and rewarding. Whether you're a rhythm game enthusiast or just looking for a fresh take on the FPS genre, ROBOBEAT offers something special. The option to play with or without the rhythm mechanics makes it accessible to various skill levels, while maintaining enough depth to keep experienced players engaged for hours. I recommend it. Thanks for reading!
The game was reviewed on a PS5 via a code provided by the publisher. ROBOBEAT is available on Xbox, PS5, Switch and PC.
