While we got the Redfall release date (May 2) with Microsoft's Developer_Direct today which many were hoping for, the bigger news was an entirely new game called Hi-Fi Rush.

Releasing today.

A colourful sci-fi musical action adventure which looks and sounds spectacular.

As wannabe rockstar Chai, you’ll fight back against a sinister robotics enhancement conglomerate using rhythm-amplified combat where everything – from the motion in the environment to the blows of combat – is synced to the music. Raise your guitar high and feel the beat in this utterly all-new title from Tango Gameworks, the team behind The Evil Within and Ghostwire: Tokyo.

Though personally not great for our tastes.

Attacks made on the beat have bonuses.

Gotham Knights was similar though delivered its bonus differently in the form of increased momentum (special ability) energy generation for weapon attacks delivered on a semi-hidden beat with success indicated by your attacks appearing slightly different.

Then the developers say - "you're in complete control during combat".

Are you really though?

A musical beat is a less arbitrary and more immersive implementation than others but it's still ultimately another example of combat design where the game plays you.

Otherwise it looks great and they promise the game will be available a few mere hours after reveal.

Hi-Fi Rush rushes to release today on PC and Xbox X|S.

[ Main Image: Hi-Fi Rush reveal during Microsoft Developer_Direct. Credit: Microsoft via YouTube. ]

References

Bethesda Softworks (January 26, 2023). Hi-Fi RUSH | Official Launch Trailer. YouTube.

Bethesda Softworks (January 26, 2023). Redfall - Official Gameplay Deep Dive. YouTube.

Wilhelm, Parker (January 25, 2023). Play Hi-Fi Rush Today! Xbox Wire.

Xbox (January 26, 2023). Developer_Direct, presented by Xbox & Bethesda. YouTube.