Hi-Fi Rush’s Arcade Challenge Update Is a Welcome Addition to an Already Amazing Game

Hi-Fi Rush is one of my game of the year contenders for 2023 and started the year strong as the new title from the horror studio Tango Gameworks (Ghostwire Tokyo, The Evil Within) surprised viewers by being shadow-dropped during Microsoft’s first big games showcase for the year. PC and Xbox players are able to play the game in full right after the show either purchasing the game outright or having access through Game Pass as it was available on the service on day one.

Since its release, the developers have been slowly updating the game. However this July, the game was given its biggest update yet with the free Arcade Challenge update, introducing new game modes that allow players to enjoy the game’s combat in a new way.

The update adds two new game modes to those that have finished the campaign and wish to truly challenge their knowledge of the game’s musically aligned combat. This provides an additional layer for the player to engage the game. Though, the game was released with post-campaign features like the Rhythm Tower mode and the ability to play the game from the start with all the abilities you’ve unlocked so far, this new update amps things up to not only change things up but to really challenge you in its combat.

But, unlike Rythmn Tower, the two new game modes added from the Arcade Challenge Update can drastically change the way you play the game as it removes you out of your comfort zone as you need to use every trick you have to succeed in either game mode.

Power Up! Tower Up! Mode is a great mode for those looking for a challenge

Power Up! Tower Up! Mode is a great challenge for those seeking a test of skill. Similar to Rhythm Tower, this mode consists of multiple floors, each with a set number of challenging enemies to defeat before advancing. The twist is that you start with Chai stripped of all abilities and upgrades, relying solely on the assistance of his friends. After completing each floor, you have the option to upgrade specific attributes for Chai, such as increased life or damage, at the cost of reducing others, in order to receive a higher score multiplier.

This mode offers a significant challenge and the freedom to adjust the difficulty level based on your choices. I appreciate the opportunity to think on my feet and approach the game from a fresh perspective, especially with the combination of enemy types thrown at me simultaneously. It's also the perfect place to try out the new special abilities introduced in the update and face the new enemy types.

BPM Rush is a mixed bag

BPM Rush, on the other hand, is a mixed bag. It deviates too much from what makes the combat so enjoyable. As you progress in this mode, the tempo of the music and the timing of your attacks speed up, requiring you to adjust on the fly. While it presents a challenge, it takes away from the immersive experience of jamming to the music while attacking enemies in sync. As the gameplay and music sped up rapidly, it felt like playing the game at x4 speed, causing undue pressure and leading to a feeling of spamming attacks. It might mesh better with other players but I felt myself leaning towards other game modes to get my fill of the game.

Overall, these new modes are a fantastic addition to an already excellent game. Players who loved the game during their initial run will appreciate the opportunity to come back and challenge themselves in these modes, unlocking new rewards along the way. It adds value for players to truly appreciate the game's combat in a fresh light. If this update happens to be the last major addition to the game, I wouldn't be disappointed as the base game already feels complete. However, I hope Tango Gameworks continues to support the game through DLC or even consider either a sequel or a spin off, expanding the world further in the future.

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