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Hi-Fi Rush 2023
Hi-Fi Rush is a 2023 rhythm-based action game developed by Tango Gameworks, originally published by Bethesda Softworks, and currently published by Krafton. The narrative centers on Chai, a self-proclaimed "future rock star," who becomes the subject of an experimental cybernetic procedure funded by Vandelay Technologies. During this surgery, his music player is accidentally embedded into his chest, granting him the ability to perceive his environment through rhythmic synchronization. This transformation results in Chai being labeled a "defect" and hunted by his former employer. To survive, he teams up with new allies to challenge the company’s leadership and halt their malicious ambitions.
The gameplay of Hi-Fi Rush distinguishes itself within the character action genre through its unique integration of music and movement. Chai's connection to his music player causes him, enemies, and environmental elements to align with the rhythm of the game’s soundtrack. Players perform combat by executing 'beat hits' in time with audio cues, increasing damage output and improving their final score when done successfully. Beyond traditional fighting mechanics, the game includes a variety of rhythm-based minigames that rely on sound for interaction and puzzle solving. The levels follow a linear structure incorporating platforming, boss battles, and arena-style encounters with enemies and minibosses, each framed by themed confrontations with executives from Vandelay Technologies. Additional abilities and upgrades can be acquired through in-game collectibles or by spending currency earned during playthroughs.
Development of Hi-Fi Rush began while Tango Gameworks was concluding The Evil Within 2 in 2017, driven by internal motivation to explore genres outside their previous focus on survival horror. Production commenced the subsequent year. Its design and presentation were heavily influenced by the cinematic style of director Edgar Wright. Due to concerns about player expectations regarding tone and gameplay differences from past projects, Tango and Bethesda maintained strict secrecy throughout development. The game was announced and launched simultaneously for Windows and Xbox Series X/S via Bethesda Softworks on January 25, 2023. A PlayStation 5 version followed in March 2024.
Upon release, Hi-Fi Rush garnered critical acclaim for its visual flair, artistic direction, comedic tone, character design, and combat mechanics. Some reviewers pointed out issues related to repetition, stage layout, and the limited scope of its soundtrack. Hi-Fi Rush marked the final title developed by Tango Gameworks as a studio under Bethesda and Microsoft Gaming before its initial dissolution in May 2024. Afterward, the studio was re-established under Krafton’s ownership in August 2024, which also acquired the rights to the Hi-Fi Rush franchise from Microsoft. Plans were made to expand the series with further titles while also pursuing alternative ventures. Publishing rights remained with Microsoft and Bethesda until November 14, 2025, after which they were fully transferred to Krafton.
Crew
- Director
- John Johanas
- Designer
- Masaaki Yamada
- Programmer
- Yuji Nakamura
- Writer
- John Johanas, Morten Brunbjerg
- Producer
- Masato Kimura, Shinsaku Ohara
- Music
- Shuichi Kobori, Reo Uratani, Masatoshi Yanagi
Details
- Developer
- Tango Gameworks
- Publisher
- Bethesda Softworks, KRAFTON
- Platforms
- Windows, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5
- Modes
- Single-player
- Engine
- Unreal Engine 4
