DJMax Portable

The Good
This game was fantastic. I really enjoy music simulation games that bring you into the action of creating music in a game! That's what this game does! It really makes you feel like you are a part of the creative force behind the compositions of each song that you 'perform" in. Instead of just pushing buttons to mimic what you see on screen, you push a button and hear a responding sound. Hit it right, or on time, and you get a nice response. Hit it wrong, or late, and it's sour.


The Bad
I would love to see a "practice" mode in the next version (DJ Max 2 has already been announced and a release date of February 23rd, 2007 is pending at the time of this writing.) The fact that this mode does not exist, and you are immediately knocked out when your energy bar drops to zero, can be the ultimate in frustration. I have never gotten more than one or two songs completed in 6 key mode. I have never actually completed 4 key mode at 100% of songs completed. This is mainly because of frustration felt by never being allowed to continue on a song, when I'm dong poorly. I remember taking piano lessons as a kid, and being told to continue on, no matter how many mistakes are made, to the end of a difficult song. Keep the timing, and don't lose the beat, etc.

The Bottom Line
Imagine a combination of DDR and Beatmania, for your thumbs. I suppose some folks might use their index fingers for the 8 key songs on the right and left buttons, and a few of the 6 key songs, but two thumbs do well on the 4 key songs, . You are part of an elite band, which allows you to control and allow certain key sounds to emit from your PSP. However, the conductor is very strict, and if you miss too many notes, he fires you immediately. That is to say, the system shouts "U Need More Practice!" It can be frustrating, and starting over and over again takes some getting used to. But, stick with this game, especially if your a big fan of music games.