Shuffle or boogie? Theatrhythm Final Bar Line Switch review
Our Verdict
Theatrhythm Final Bar Line takes a very simple premise with easy-to-learn and hard-to-master levels and ties them all up in an adorable little chibi ribbon. It's a must-play for any Final Fantasy superfan, but the lack of touchscreen controls on Switch is an oversight
Back in 2012, I must have devoted hundreds of hours to trying to get SSS ranks for every song in Theatrhythm Final Fantasy on the 3DS. I was thus rather eager to play the next game in the challenging-to-spell series on the Nintendo Switch when Square Enix announced it.
Let me briefly summarize what to anticipate from Theatrhythm for those of you who are unfamiliar with it. Nearly 400 tunes from Final Fantasy are included in the rhythm game Final Bar Line, and more iconic tracks will be added later on. DLC for Nier and Live A Live is also planned. There are easy-to-learn, challenging levels, a straightforward concept, and a clear target audience of lovers of rhythm games and JRPGs.
I was itching for more after playing the Theatrhythm Final Bar Line Switch trial, and the entire game delivers an experience that is on par with the demo. Since OG Final Fantasy VII is my favorite game in the series, I decided to unlock some of its tracks during the demo. I was only allowed to play five songs before being prevented from playing any more. I so continued where I left off, prepared to get my One-Winged Angel SSS rating.
My head bobs in sync to every button press, and every song brings back fleeting memories of my childhood spent playing PlayStation 1 and 2 games. As I up the level, this head bopping becomes more intense—it's amazing how much tension a rhythm game can produce. Though because I'm not a rhythm enthusiast, they could simply be my preconceived notions.
In addition to the rhythmic aspects, you get to assemble a squad of four chibi Final Fantasy characters, who engage in combat with adversaries as you go through each song. Admittedly, I'm aware that these characters' numbers are crucial for finishing side missions at every level, but I still prefer to choose my favorites and cross my fingers.
Though if you're like me and just want to party and get some SSS ranks, they don't really important unless you want to play this game more like an RPG. I do advise you to pay attention to the tutorials and arm your party with the finest gear.
It's strange that Final Bar Line doesn't have touchscreen controls as the 3DS version does for some reason, because the original allowed for quite gratifying and flawless touchscreen operation. Since the Switch Joy-Cons don't always have the most comfortable arrangement, I do find it a little annoying to have to push a direction on both analog sticks at once.
Having said that, there is a strong Final Bar Line homage to the original 3DS game. As previously said, the gameplay mechanics are rather similar: you assemble a squad of four adorable characters from various Square Enix properties, navigate through well-known environments, and use the Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons to the accompaniment of timeless melodies. Really, what more could you want?
I didn't have much opportunity to test out the Multi Battles feature. With this option, you may compete online against up to three other players to see who's the greatest. I'm trying the game ahead of release and can't seem to locate anybody else to play with, so obviously I can't comment right now, but I'll come back here after release to let you know how well it works on Switch.
In terms of Switch performance outside from online gaming, it's flawless. The Switch version of the game may be the greatest option to play it because of its quick loads, lack of latency, and portability; my only complaint is that touch controls were removed.
The game does exactly what it says on the box, so although it may not live up to your expectations, it will definitely meet them. You'll laugh out loud playing this Final Fantasy rhythm game with all of your favorite characters, including a cute, chubby chocobo.
Make sure to check out our articles on the Theatrhythm Final Bar Line release date and Theatrhythm Final Bar Line DLC while you wait for the game to come out.