I really loved this game, despite having no rhythm myself. The gameplay was wonderful and had plenty of depth in the combat, the visual presentation was superb and obviously the soundtrack was just filled with bangers. The boss fights were great spectacles, I just wish they didn't use a checkpoint system, it feels rather unearned when you beat a boss if you ever die at any point since you just restart at a checkpoint. You'd have to redo the entire balance but i'd prefer boss fights without checkpoints. The world and characters were a joy as well, even if they didn't have a ton of depth. I personally didn't care for some of the more sappy, corny "friendship overcomes all!" beats of the story, just not my thing, but i did still enjoy the story overall. I could do without another "corporation bad" story, not that i disagree I just feel like I've seen it done a lot. Some of the platforming was a little jank at times, it felt a little awkward on some of the jumps. The level design was fine but it was definitely basic, though it wasn't the focus so i'm not holding it against the game too much. The levels shined in being visual set pieces though.

Overall, I had a great time with Hi-Fi Rush. I really hope they get a sequel greenlit and even more budget put behind it. I just hope if they do, it keeps its heart.