PixlBit

Using Atari-esque graphics and an 8-bit soundtrack, Bit.Trip Beat embodies the characteristics of our favorite retro video game classics while adding a more modern feel to the gameplay.

Originally released back in March, Bit.Trip Beat has been gaining newfound exposure as result of the demo that has been released on the Wii Shop Channel. Since I missed the game, I figured this was the perfect opportunity to take advantage of this demo and give some impressions from a fresh perspective.

The game's concept and control is very simple; just tilt the Wii-Remote onto its side and rotate it forward to move your paddle up and rotate it backward to move your paddle down. Bits will roll in from the right side of the screen and your objective is to return them without letting them slip by (think Pong, but without having the other paddle to return your hit). The goal is to rack up as many points as you can by hitting as many Bits consecutively without missing. At first, bits move directly from one side to the other and are fairly easy to hit. As the game progresses, new Bits appear, each with their own special movement. Some bits return like boomerangs, some move diagonally, and some pause in the middle of the screen and move along with the beat. Needless to say, things get pretty crazy!

For every bit you hit, you earn 100 points and for each consecutive hit, you get an extra point. Unlike retro games where you have "lives," game developers decided to use a progress bar. As you hit bits, a progress bar on the top will move up slowly, eventually entering you into a new mode which will allow you to score massive amounts of points. On the other end of the spectrum, there is a progress bar on the bottom that keeps count of how many bits you miss. Missing too many Bits sends you back to the previous mode, and if you miss enough Bits you enter "Nether Mode," giving you the chance at a last ditch effort to stay afloat. Hit enough bits and you’ll be saved, allowing you to continue the game. Miss too many bits and the game is over.

Overall, the game is nearly flawless in its execution. The only problem were the annoying background effects that get crazier the better you do. They distract you from seeing bits, but these effects were clearly placed there intentionally by the developers to create another element of difficulty to the game. Although annoying, they do not impede gameplay and just take some getting used to. Bit.Trip Beat also has that addictive element you find in similar games, making you want to continue playing so you can beat your old high score, get better combos, get further in the game, and see all the new bits.

Unfortunately, the demo is limited and only allows the player to experience one level of gameplay. There are two other levels and a 4-player multiplayer.

Bit.Trip Beat can be purchased on the Wii Shop Channel for 600 Wii Points. The demo can also be downloaded, but for a limited time only.