Dance Central 2 Review

Another reason to own a Kinect?

Let's be honest, the pickings have been mighty slim for the Kinect. Even a year later, I'm about to call a rhythm game from Harmonix the only reason to own a Kinect this holiday season. I'm having the weirdest déjà vu right now.

Regardless, Dance Central 2 really is the only reason to own a Kinect this holiday. It basically replaces the original Dance Central by implementing the soundtrack export Rock Band 2 started. Throw that disc away, folks! Dance Central 2 is the only game you'll ever need for Kinect (so far).


The flash cards return as do several moves from the previous game's soundtrack. New songs introduce new moves and finishers while breaks in each track allow you to improvise and make an ass out of yourself for the entire world to see.... I am the center of the universe, right?

As fun and intuitive as mirroring the on-screen dancers is, there are still small nagging issues with the technology powering the experience. It's hard to fault Harmonix for the hardware issues, but they exist and it will deflate your enjoyment of the game.

Joining the new songs, dancers, and venues is the ability to perform side-by-side with a second player. Easily the best and most obvious improvment the series could see in one year, simultaneous dance moves allow for two players to pull off flawless maneuvers without hitting each other in the face, arm, or crotch.


Regardless, Harmonix has set a farily high bar for iterative sequels in their Rock Band series. Adding new instruments and new ways to interact with the music made each new game better than the last. It certainly made for higher expectations of Dance Central 2, expectations the title doesn't quite meet. If you enjoyed the original, don't hestitate to pick up the new game and import your songs over. But don't buy a Kinect just for Dance Central 2. Don't run out and pay full price for the game if you're only going to enjoy it during a party. There's sure to be a sale sooner than later.

Review copy not provided by publisher.