UNBEATABLE
Top Critic Average
Critics Recommend
Critic Reviews for UNBEATABLE
Unbeatable suffers from an identity crisis, pairing a decent arcade mode with an uneven story mode that buries its rhythm gameplay beneath a bit too much padding.
Playing UNBEATABLE makes you feel like you’re watching pirated episodes of your favourite show. Its janky narrative structure and limited content make it feel appropriately criminal to grow attached. However, while frustrating at times, these jagged edges are part of the charm. UNBEATABLE feels like an unapologetic guilty pleasure.
Ultimately, what do I score a game like Unbeatable that has such observable problems but some of the most heart-pumping emotional resonance I’ve experienced in games throughout this entire year? What cute, little video game review cliche can I lean on to help me out of this predicament? D-Cell itself offered a cheeky, little take at how review scores can be perceived, and I figure why not send that ball back over the net? I was thinking a seven at first, but Sonic Adventure 2’s problems are way more frustrating than Unbeatable’s. And I am a little shy as a person. So let’s go with that.
UNBEATABLE is a good rhythm action adventure game, with it highlights being its visual style and the arcade mode. The story is fine, but can feel all over the place at times with a script that isn't the best, but the music through the game is good and there are a couple of standout tracks. It has been a while since a decent rhythm game came out, so it is worth giving UNBEATABLE a shot.
Thankfully, even if some of the emotional bits, philosophical musings, or political parallels don’t land in the midst of all that chaos, the overall vibes never miss.
UNBEATABLE is far from a perfect game, but it excels in the areas that are important.
Overcoming a lacklustre start to its story mode with some bugs and other minor issues, UNBEATABLE manages to become an incredibly memorable and poignant journey. Eloquently exploring themes of community and the blood, sweat and tears that come with creating art, it winds up being a stylish adventure with a lot of heart and a fantastic celebration of all things music and rhythm games. Playing it almost feels like you’re in the middle of a mosh pit, receiving blows and elbows to the face as you watch your favourite band. You’re getting knocked about, and your footing isn’t always stable and able to keep up with the noise, but damn if it isn’t some of the best and most passionate things worth living for.
