Emphasis on fluid movement sets this addictive experience apart from its contemporaries.
Originally released in July of 2019, Kluge Interactive’s action rhythm experience Synth Riders has finally arrived on the Oculus Quest, bringing with it 31 individual tracks featuring varying levels of difficulty ranging from “Easy” to “Master.”
Similar to Beat Saber — without-doubt the most popular VR rhythm game currently available — Synth Riders tasks players with using their motion controllers to hit a series of colored notes to the beat of a thumping electronic soundtrack. Unlike the sword-slashing movements featured in Beat Saber, however, Synth Riders instead has players tapping colored orbs while keeping their controllers steady over smooth, flowing rails of glowing light. Added complexities, such as notes that require both hands and physical obstacles players must avoid, add additional challenges to the experience.
“After more than a year in Early Access, we are excited to launch our Full Release, which would not have been possible without tremendous support from our community, and the good people at Oculus and their QA team,” said Abraham Aguero, Creative Director at Kluge Interactive, in an official release. “We are proud of our launch and have no plans to stop bringing new music, new features, and more engaging ways to play Synth Riders.”
Since launch, Synth Riders has expanded its catalog to include 31 intense tracks from a variety of popular artists, including Celldweller, Prizm, and Sunset Neon. There are currently four game modes available to players: Regular, Boxing, Endurance, and Force; each playable across 7 different environments. Kluge Interactive has confirmed that more levels are already in development as is multiplayer functionality and Oculus Quest social integration.
While at first glance it may appear as though Synth Riders borrows heavily from existing VR rhythm games, rest assured this is in no way a cheap Beat Saber knock-off. Thanks to a heavy focus on fluid, smooth movements and a healthy dose of old-school vaporwave aesthetics, Synth Riders has managed to carve out its own little niche within the growing VR rhythm genre. Whereas Beat Saber places you in the shoes of a lightsaber-wielding DJ, Synth Riders makes you feel as though you’re at the center of a classic rave in a retro 90’s dance club (Crystal Pepsi not included).
So, whether you’re looking for your first VR rhythm game, trying to incorporate more exercise into your VR sessions, or just need a break from Beat Saber, Synth Riders is definitely worth checking out. You can pick up Synth Riders on Oculus Quest today for $16.99. If you already happen to own a copy for the Oculus Rift/Rift S, you currently have a free copy for Quest waiting for you in the store courtesy of Oculus cross-buy.
Feature Image Credit: Kluge Interactive
