For a long time, fans of rhythm games have wondered why the immersive world of Virtual Reality (VR) hadn’t embraced some of the biggest dance hits, particularly Just Dance. Finally, Ubisoft has answered that call, bringing the energetic franchise into VR with Just Dance VR. It’s more than just a simple port; it’s an evolution that incorporates unique VR elements, enhancing the familiar and beloved Just Dance experience. If you’re acquainted with the core gameplay of Just Dance, regardless of whether you’ve played on a traditional screen, Just Dance VR delivers exactly what you’d expect and hope for, but in a profoundly engaging new format.
For newcomers to the Just Dance phenomenon, it’s important to understand that this isn’t about slashing through blocks or hitting precisely timed orbs. Just Dance VR reimagines itself as an interactive VR dance tutorial. You’re tasked with mirroring the movements of a virtual coach who guides you through a complete dance routine, step by step. To help you prepare, the game thoughtfully displays a preview of the upcoming starting pose, ensuring you’re ready for each segment of the choreography. This intuitive design makes it easy to jump in and get moving.
One of the pleasant surprises for long-time Just Dance players, and even for those new to dancing games, is the game’s apparent forgiveness in tracking your movements. It’s not entirely clear whether Just Dance VR is genuinely more lenient in judging the accuracy of your hand placements compared to previous iterations, or if the improved controller tracking in VR, eliminating the need for phone-based motion detection, is the key factor. Regardless, the experience feels more accessible and less punitive. Even individuals who don’t consider themselves natural dancers can achieve impressive ‘Superstar’ ratings, highlighting the game’s emphasis on fun and participation over perfect execution. This forgiving nature encourages players to let loose, enjoy the music, and truly experience the joy of dance in a virtual environment.
In conclusion, Just Dance VR successfully translates the infectious energy and fun of the Just Dance series into virtual reality. It retains the core appeal of following dance routines while adding a layer of immersion and improved tracking that makes it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of players, from seasoned dancers to rhythm game novices. The question “Why Do We Just Dance?” is answered emphatically by Just Dance VR: because it’s fun, engaging, and a fantastic way to experience the joy of movement in a whole new dimension.
