K-pop, the musical genre originated in South Korea, has increased in popularity in recent years. Not only is that KPop Demon Hunters movie a big enough hit to receive a Criterion Collection Blu-ray, but now there are even video games getting in on the fun. French publisher Microids has shown an affinity for games with Asian themes (and failing to answer interview questions), so it's not too surprising that they have just released K-Pop Rising - Dream to Shine on everything but Xbox (aww, man!). What's pleasantly surprising is that this game features 3-player local co-op. Daebak!
Features:
- The international phenomenon in your hands: Draw inspiration from your idols and experience the rise of today's biggest K-Pop groups. Become the face of this culture that fascinates the entire world.
- An adventure that reflects who you are (Full customization): Express your uniqueness! Create and customize your character from head to toe to match your style and the vibe of your performances. Trendy outfits, iconic makeup... everything is possible to establish your style in the spotlight.
- Your group, your rules: You call the shots. Create a group in your own image, recruit its members, and turn your very first fans into an international community of millions of followers.
- Stay in the rhythm! Talent is nurtured. Perfect your singing, master highly precise choreographies, and sharpen your sense of timing through captivating rhythm gameplay phases to become an accomplished star.
- From your bedroom to conquering stadiums: Start at the bottom of the ladder in the anonymity of your bedroom, climb the ranks through your passion and perseverance, and transform yourself into the international icon of your dreams.
- Shine solo, triumph as a trio! Because music is all about sharing, experience this adventure alone or with two friends. Form the group of your dreams in co-op mode and unite your talents to lead your Band straight to the top of the global charts!
Besides the egregious lack of an Xbox version, K-Pop Rising has another disappointing factor: no Remote Play Together support on Steam. Come on, developers, that's such an easy way to add online play to Steam games! That downer aside, this looks like a fun game for girls and K-pop fans alike. A J-pop game would be cool too, come to think of it!
K-Pop Rising - Rise to Shine! costs $34.99 on PlayStation 5 and Switch, and $29.99 on Steam.