At its core Rhythm Heaven is a compilation of rhythm-based mini-games as only Nintendo could produce. Holding the DS sideways, players use the stylus to tap and flick their way through 30 games. Each game has their own quirky concept, endearing visual style and catchy music. At first glance, you might think its just another throwaway casual game but you’re in for a couple of surprises.

In terms of gameplay, Rhythm Heaven is a mixed bag. The controls are easy enough, as you’ll only have to worry about tapping, pressing and holding or flicking the stylus on the touch screen – anywhere will do. Each game begins with an optional practice mode to let you get the hang of things. After which, you’ll spend 2-3 minutes tapping away, the usual length of each game. At the beginning only one game is available but new ones are unlocked one-by-one given you clear the previous with an adequate score. The grading system itself is just as simple as the controls: you either fail (“Try Again”); clear the level (“Just O.K.”) or a near perfect result (“Superb”). Getting a superb score will net you a medal. Collect enough and you’ll unlock a further 20+ mini-games and rhythm apps. Also, clearing all 30 main games will reveal access harder versions of the originals. While not spectacular, it’s an unexpected amount of depth for a “casual” game.

Variety seems to be this game’s strong suit. Each mini-game has its own presentation package of visuals, premise and music. The graphics incorporate some retro 3-D graphics but are mostly cute and cartoony. Those with an odd sense of humour will appreciate the ridiculous concepts behind most games like a vegetable slashing ninja-dog or a stomping, turnip-flinging farmer. Naturally, music should be a strong component of a rhythm game and for this game it certainly is. Its library is diverse, fully of snappy pop songs, techno, rock and a couple of interesting fusions including spaghetti samurai-western.

But Rhythm Heaven‘s second surprise is much nastier. This game is hard, especially for those with a bad sense of rhythm or no musical experience such as myself. Particularly difficult are those levels like “Moai Doo-Wop” or “Rockers” that require you to hear a musical sequence and then reproduce it with the correct timing. It’s quite a task for someone totally unaccustomed to it. Additionally, the grading system is rather harsh and your performances are held up to an extremely high standard. I would typically spend 30 minutes grinding away at any given level just to barely clear it. Also, while the games are arranged in groups and unlocked incrementally, their difficulty varies wildly and most games are unique enough in their mechanics that practice at one won’t improve your skills at another. The end result is a constant struggle at individual challenges without any sense of mastering the game as a whole. In fact, the game gives you the option to skip levels if you fail them three or more times in a row, a feature I had to use frequently just to maintain my own sanity.

So what I’m really trying to say is…

Do not be fooled by Rhythm Heaven‘s charming visuals and presentation. There’s more to it than your run-of-the-mill mini-game compilation including a great soundtrack and 50+ diverse games and activities to unlock. Unfortunately, it’s also quite difficult – verging on infuriating – especially for those not rhythmically inclined or with no experience with music. The game’s difficulty often outweighs its depth or appeal. Rarely could I play it for more than 45 minutes at a time. The result is a game, that can come across as schizophrenic, demanding hardcore perfection while offering only light gameplay mechanics (as compared to other games that require similar investments of time) in return. Rhythm Heaven can only be recommended for those who really enjoy other games in the same genre.

Rhythm Heaven was provided courtesy of Nintendo and is currently available for $34.99 CND. Game played for 7+ hours.