15 Best Rhythm Games for Android, PC, and Online to Play in 2023

If you have a passion for exploring diverse music genres and enjoy testing your hand-eye coordination, then you should definitely dive into the world of rhythm games. Unlike in the past, where you needed specialized arcade equipment or dance pads, today's rhythm games are more accessible than ever, thanks to mobile and touch technology. So what are the best rhythm games?

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This accessibility has fueled the popularity of rhythm games, making them a fantastic choice for anyone looking to have a great time. In this best rhythm games roundup, we've curated the top 15 rhythm games that you can play on your PC, Android, or iPhone to challenge yourself and have a blast.

What are Rhythm Games?

Rhythm games are a type of interactive video game that focuses on challenges related to timing and rhythm. Players commonly synchronize their actions with musical beats or rhythmic patterns. These games typically require players to tap buttons or use touchscreen gestures in sync with the music to earn high scores or advance to higher levels. Rhythm games are available on various platforms, such as consoles, mobile devices, and arcade machines.

Criteria for Selecting the Best Rhythm Games

When choosing the best rhythm games, it is important to consider various factors. These include evaluating the gameplay mechanics, music selection, user-friendliness, visuals, multiplayer and social features, customization options, active developer support, regular updates, and platform compatibility. These criteria guarantee a comprehensive gaming experience that prioritizes intuitive rhythm-based mechanics, a wide range of music genres, and gameplay that is easy for beginners to understand. This is what we consider curating this list, and it is time to dive in.

1. Arcaea

Arcaea is our first entry on the best rhythm games list. It offers a visually stunning experience and enchanting music. It introduces players to a vibrant world of rhythm and color with its unique four-lane setup, where red represents the right lane, and blue represents the left lane. However, don't limit yourself to specific colors, as the game is designed to be flexible. Arcaea includes a variety of songs, both free and paid, as well as "sky notes'' for a diverse range of difficulty levels. 

What Makes It One of the Best Rhythm Games?

Arcaea stands out as one of the best rhythm games with its innovative 3-dimensional 'Arc' gameplay, engaging swiping, and note-following on the touchscreen. The game offers an engaging story mode set in a mysterious world of musical conflicts, providing a range of game modes and difficulty levels. With over 160 songs by more than 100 artists, including exclusive original tracks, Arcaea boasts a vast music library. It also offers online features for connecting with friends and competing on scoreboards, ensuring an enjoyable offline gaming experience.

Advantages:

• Innovative and immersive gameplay.

• High-quality graphics and sound.

• Diverse and dynamic music selection.

• Engaging and emotionally charged story mode.

• Various game modes and difficulty levels.

• Both online and offline capabilities.

Drawbacks:

• High difficulty curve.

• A limited number of free songs.

• Potential lag or compatibility issues on some devices.

• Occasional bugs or glitches.

Pricing and Availability

Arcaea can be downloaded and played for free, with certain songs accessible through paid content. Players can unlock additional songs by purchasing them or earning in-game currency called Memories. Song packs typically range from $0.99 to $4.99 USD. You can play Arcaea on PC with LDPlayer. 

2. Lanota

Next on our best rhythm games list, we have Lanota. It introduces a unique circular playfield that adds a refreshing twist to the rhythm game genre. The circular setup allows players to zoom in, zoom out, and rotate, creating a dynamic and immersive experience. Lanota breaks free from lane limitations with press notes, flick notes, and catch notes. While it features an engaging storyline, note that it might not suit every player's taste.

What Makes It One of the Best Rhythm Games?

Lanota's extensive and varied collection of songs spans genres from J-pop to rock to trance, offering a diverse musical experience. The game features a captivating storyline that unfolds as you progress through songs. The gameplay provides a satisfying challenge as you tap, hold, and swipe notes on the circular field. Customization options include difficulty levels, speed settings, and fail override.

Advantages:

• Innovative and enjoyable gameplay.

• Wide selection of high-quality music.

• Engaging story mode.

• Various difficulty levels and options.

Drawbacks:

• Strict timing can be frustrating for some players.

• Story progression can be confusing.

• Lack of HD rumble support.

• No docked mode or controller support.

Pricing and Availability

Lanota is available for free for Android and iPhones with in-app purchases. And you can play Lanota on PC with LDPlayer. 

3. Phigros

Phigros manages to climb the ladder of best rhythm games by allowing players to tap anywhere along the same line as the note, adding a new dimension to gameplay. It offers a captivating experience with flick notes and catch notes similar to Lanota. Note that the inability to customize the scroll speed might be a disadvantage for some players.

What Makes It One of the Best Rhythm Games?

Phigros stands out with its curated music library, featuring over 25 high-quality tracks of various genres licensed by global musicians. The game also includes stunning illustrations that complement each track's mood. Phigros offers an innovative and simple-to-learn yet challenging gameplay style, catering to various skill levels and preferences.

Advantages 

• Unique and innovative gameplay.

• Wide range of songs and charts.

• Sleek and smooth user interface.

Drawbacks

• Occasional music bug when closing and reopening the app.

• Initial adjustment to controls and dynamic judgment lines.

• Challenges with smaller screens or thumb controls.

Pricing and Availability

Phigros is a free application available on the Google Play Store. It has no in-app purchases or ads, allowing for uninterrupted gameplay. Additionally, fan-made maps can be imported into the game. You can also play Phigros on PC with LDPlayer. 

4. Cytus 1

Cytus is unique among this best rhythm games list because it offers both a paid version and a free version supported by ads. It features a constantly moving vertical line and challenges players with tapping circles, whole notes, and slide notes. Cytus 2 introduces flick notes for a distinctive gameplay experience.

What Makes It One of the Best Rhythm Games?

Cytus 1 is an excellent choice for music lovers who enjoy moving their feet to the beat. It stands out from other games due to its captivating gameplay, diverse soundtrack, and immersive narrative.

Advantages: 

• Over 200 songs spanning various genres.

• Simple and intuitive controls.

• Multiple difficulty modes.

• Stunning graphics and animations.

• Captivating hidden story.

Drawbacks:

• The story can be challenging to follow.

• High difficulty on hard mode.

• Finger obstruction on smaller screens.

• The cost associated with unlocking chapters and songs.

Pricing and Availability

Cytus 1 can be downloaded and played for free, offering access to the initial chapter with 10 songs. Additional chapters and songs can be unlocked through in-app purchases, with chapters priced at $1.99 each or $9.99 for the entire collection. And you can play Cytus 1 on PC with LDPlayer.

5. Cytus II

Cytus 2 builds upon its predecessor's achievements with different line speeds and a dynamic charting style. It includes a captivating storyline with character-specific stories and introduces paid characters for added depth and diversity.

What Makes It One of the Best Rhythm Games?

Cytus 2 offers an enjoyable experience for music enthusiasts who love tapping to the beat. It features a wide range of songs across various genres and a unique gameplay system.

Advantages:

• Stunning anime art style.

• Over 300 songs from various artists.

• Multiple difficulty levels.

• Captivating storyline with character interactions.

Drawbacks:

• It is expensive if you unlock all the characters and songs.

• Challenging gameplay on higher difficulty levels.

• High battery and storage demand.

Pricing and Availability 

Cytus II can be downloaded and played for free with initial access to three characters and their songs. Additional characters and songs can be unlocked through in-app purchases using real money or by earning black market coupons through gameplay or ads. You can also play Cytus II on PC with LDPlayer.

6. A Dance of Fire and Ice

A Dance of Fire and Ice provides a refreshing departure from the rest of the games in our best rhythm games list. It pushes the player to recognize patterns and understand their musical significance. With its one-finger gameplay, it will turn into the perfect companion for entertainment on the go. However, it's worth noting that the mobile version lacks custom levels. Despite this, its convenience and innovative approach to exploring music make it one of the best rhythm games.

What Makes It One of the Best Rhythm Games? 

A Dance of Fire and Ice stands out as one of the best rhythm games due to its unique and sophisticated gameplay mechanics. It presents rhythms in a visually captivating manner, setting it apart from the competition. The game boasts stunning graphics and enchanting soundtracks that transport players across various musical genres and enchanting fantasy landscapes. 

Advantages:

• Easy to learn, hard to master.

• Diverse levels and songs for endless replayability.

• Strong community and level editor for longevity.

• Regular updates with fresh content.

Drawbacks:

• High difficulty may frustrate newcomers.

• Gameplay can feel repetitive for some.

• Occasional bugs, especially in custom levels.

Pricing and Availability

You can get it for free on Android devices, but the PC game isn't entirely free; you can sample it through a free online version to determine if it aligns with your preferences. The full version is priced at $5.99 USD on Steam. You can play A Dance of Fire and Ice on PC with LDPlayer for free.

7.OverRapid

OverRapid becomes one of the best rhythm games by pushing the boundaries of rhythm gaming, challenging players to master all six lanes simultaneously. To optimize your performance, placing your device on a level surface is essential. While there are paid packs available, the core gameplay remains free. The introduction of flick notes in the middle lanes significantly enhances the rhythm, introducing a new layer of complexity.

What Makes It One of the Best Rhythm Games?

This game earns its spot among the best rhythm games for its engaging and exhilarating gameplay. It offers a dynamic and challenging playstyle, featuring either 4 or 6 lanes along with 2 scratch lanes. Additionally, OverRapid boasts a diverse selection of songs spanning various genres and difficulty levels, with some featuring unique introductory animations. It includes various modes such as random, mirror, and hard modes, along with online multiplayer functionality and achievements.

Advantages:

• The V-shaped lane design is comfortable and user-friendly.

• Affordable prices for additional music packs and items.

• A rating class system assesses the player's skill level.

Drawbacks:

• An internet connection is required to access most songs.

• Occasional bugs and glitches, including the random activation of shuffle lines.

• Some notes, like the gray ones, may be difficult to see.

Pricing and Availability

OverRapid can be downloaded and played for free on Android and iPhones, with certain songs and items available through in-game currency or real-money transactions. Players can earn in-game currency by playing songs or completing achievements, with prices ranging from $0.99 to $9.99 for various packs and items. You can play OverRapid on PC with LDPlayer. 

8. Muse Dash

Muse Dash offers a delightful and enjoyable rhythm game experience paired with delightful music. The gameplay involves tapping and sliding notes, making it accessible using your thumbs. While newcomers may find it challenging due to its reliance on reading skills, the game's simplicity and charming aesthetics make it one of the best rhythm games.

What Makes It One of the Best Rhythm Games?

Muse Dash secures its place among the top apps thanks to its enjoyable gameplay, addictive nature, and challenging elements. The game's vibrant and captivating art style appeals to casual gamers, while its tracks cater to traditional rhythm game enthusiasts. The base game is reasonably priced at $2.99, providing access to 62 songs. 

Advantages

• Easy to learn but difficult to master.

• It is a perfect blend of rhythm and parkour elements.

• Charming and chic art style.

• Diverse scenes, enemies, and bosses.

• A wide range of characters with diverse personalities.

• A comprehensive collection of enjoyable songs.

• Accurate and precise beat maps.

Drawbacks

• Certain songs may not align with everyone's preferences.

• Unlocking certain costumes can be challenging or may require real money.

• Some difficulties may be either too easy or too challenging.

• The English text lines could benefit from editing.

• Mature imagery may not be suitable for younger players.

Pricing and Availability 

Muse Dash isn't available for free. The base game on Android or iOS is priced at $2.99; while it is considered one of the best rhythm games on Steam, you have to get the "Just as Planned" DLC, offering access to future paid content, which costs $34.99. However, you can play Muse Dash on PC with LDPlayer.

9. Pianista

Pianista offers a simple and easy-to-understand rhythm game experience suitable for all players. The game includes tap and slide notes, making it accessible to individuals with varying skill levels. While it incorporates an energy system restricting gameplay, it caters to casual players seeking a laid-back rhythmic adventure.

What Makes It One of the Best Rhythm Games?

Pianista shines as one of the best rhythm games due to its exceptional quality and refined experience. It seamlessly blends classical music with engaging rhythm gameplay, offering a highly responsive and synchronized engine that aligns notes flawlessly with the music. The game's visual presentation adds to its premium feel, accompanied by a vast selection of timeless classical music pieces and various modes catering to different skill levels and preferences.

Advantages: 

• A unique blend of classical music and rhythm gameplay.

• A rich collection of classical compositions.

• Precise and responsive note matching.

• Premium visual presentation.

• Multiple modes for various skill levels.

Drawbacks:

• The stamina system limits free-playable songs.

• A high difficulty curve may frustrate some.

• Random song selection may disappoint.

• Limited moves can lead to repetition.

• English text needs editing.

• Mature imagery may not be suitable for kids.

Pricing and Availability

Pianista can be downloaded and played for free, incorporating a stamina system limiting free songs. Stamina can be restored by waiting or watching ads, and songs can be purchased with in-game coins or real money. An optional subscription service at $4.99 per month grants unlimited stamina, coins, and access to all songs. You can play Pianista on PC with LDPlayer.

10. Deemo

Deemo skillfully merges rhythm gaming with a captivating and emotional storyline. Primarily a paid game, there's a free version available on Android supported by ads. Gameplay centers on tapping and sliding notes, with a focus on key sounds. However, it's essential to note that early taps may feel unsatisfying due to notes disappearing. 

What Makes It One of the Best Rhythm Games?

Deemo secures its place among the best apps with exceptional graphics, sound quality, and engaging gameplay. With over 10 million players worldwide and numerous awards, it boasts a captivating and emotionally charged storyline that unfolds progressively. The game offers a diverse collection of original piano songs across genres composed by renowned musicians worldwide. Its straightforward and user-friendly interface enhances the overall gaming experience.

Advantages:

• Huge song library with regular updates.

• Engaging storyline connecting players to characters.

• Interactive gameplay adapting to preferences.

• Immersive visuals and animations.

• Autoplay for music and story enjoyment.

Drawbacks:

• Separate song and data downloads require storage.

• High device resource usage leads to quick battery drain.

• Screen and touch calibration can be tricky.

• Limited to the piano music genre.

• Price variation by region and platform.

Pricing and Availability

Deemo is available as a free download on iOS and Android, offering most songs and features for free. In-app purchases unlock specific content, with prices ranging from $0.99 to $4.99 per pack. You can play Deemo on PC with LDPlayer.

11. DanceRail 3

DanceRail 3 is a captivating fusion of rhythm gaming and an immersive storyline. While primarily a paid game, an ad-supported free version is available on Android. The gameplay revolves around tapping and sliding notes, with a strong emphasis on key sounds. Note that early taps may feel unsatisfying due to disappearing notes. With this one of the best rhythm games, where music and storytelling blend seamlessly, you can go on an enchanting journey.

What Makes It One of the Best Rhythm Games?

DanceRail 3 earns its place among the best rhythm games with exceptional graphics, top-tier sound quality, and captivating gameplay. Boasting over 10 million players worldwide and numerous accolades, it weaves a compelling and emotionally charged storyline that unfolds gradually. The game features a diverse catalog of original songs spanning genres composed by renowned musicians worldwide. Its user-friendly interface enhances the overall gaming experience.

Advantages

• Vast song library with frequent updates.

• Heartwarming storyline connecting players to characters.

• Adaptive, interactive gameplay for all skill levels.

• Stunning visuals for immersive gameplay.

• Autoplay for a relaxed experience.

Drawbacks

• Separate downloads for songs and data require ample storage.

• High resource usage can drain the device's battery quickly.

• Calibrating for screen and touch may be tricky.

• Limited to the piano music genre.

• Pricing varies by region and platform.

Pricing and Availability

DanceRail 3 is available as a free download on both iOS and Android, offering most songs and features without charge. In-app purchases unlock specific content, with prices ranging from $0.99 to $4.99 per pack. You can also access DanceRail 3 on PC with LDPlayer.

13. Samba de Amigo

Samba de Amigo is a mesmerizing blend of rhythm gaming and Latin American flair. Originally an arcade sensation, it later found its groove on the Dreamcast. The game stands out by utilizing maracas as its primary controller. Players dance to the beat, shaking maracas at varying heights in perfect sync with the music. While the 2008 Wiiport didn't replicate the original controls entirely, it retains a unique charm worth experiencing.

What Makes It One of the Best Rhythm Games?

Samba de Amigo stands out as one of the premier rhythm games due to its exceptional features that elevate the gaming experience. Notably, its adaptation to the Nintendo Switch is a game-changer, as it ingeniously utilizes Joy-Cons as maracas, bringing a heightened sense of realism and immersion to the gameplay. The game's diverse song selection is another standout feature, offering over 40 chart-topping hits from various genres worldwide, ensuring that players never run out of vibrant tunes to dance to. 

Advantages

• Inclusive for all skill levels with responsive controls.

• Festive and vibrant graphics create an enjoyable atmosphere.

• Captivating soundtrack featuring renowned artists.

• High replayability with various modes and unlockables.

Drawbacks

• Physically demanding gameplay may lead to fatigue.

• Occasional Joy-Con detection issues.

• Potential for repetitive gameplay due to limited song variation.

• Additional content can be expensive, increasing the cost.

Pricing and Availability

Samba de Amigo is not available for free. This one of the best rhythm games Switch eShop, is priced at $39.99, while the deluxe edition, offering extra songs and costumes, is available for $49.99. Downloadable content (DLC) packs are priced at $4.99 each, including 5 songs, 10 costumes, and accessories. Currently, four DLC packs are available, with more planned for the future.

14. PaRappa the Rapper

In the realm of rhythm games, PaRappa the Rapper stands as an iconic classic. Originally released in 1996, this game has maintained its status as a timeless rhythm experience. Players assist PaRappa as he navigates various scenarios by responding to button prompts, all while showcasing his rapping skills in an effort to win over his crush.

What Makes It One of the Best Rhythm Games?

PaRappa the Rapper distinguishes itself as one of the best rhythm games through several standout features. Firstly, its unique concept seamlessly blends rap and rhythm into an enjoyable and distinctive gameplay experience. The game's artistic style is another highlight, boasting vibrant and distinctive visuals that set it apart from other titles in the genre. PaRappa the Rapper's greatest strength, perhaps, lies in its catchy soundtrack, which spans multiple genres and captivates players, enhancing their immersion. 

Advantages

• It is a unique blend of rap and rhythm.

• Distinctive and visually appealing art style.

• Diverse soundtrack across genres.

• Engaging and humorous story.

• High replay value for skill improvement.

Drawbacks

• Short gameplay, under an hour to complete.

• Limited song and stage selection may lead to repetition.

• A strict timing system can frustrate some players.

• Technical issues and glitches can affect gameplay.

Pricing and Availability

PaRappa the Rapper is not available for free, but it's accessible across various platforms at different prices. The original PlayStation version can be purchased as a PSOne Classic on the PlayStation Store for $5.99. The PSP version is available as a PSP Game on the PlayStation Store for $14.99. 

15. Crypt of the NecroDancer

The Crypt of the NecroDancer series ingeniously combines rhythm with dungeon-crawling adventures. In this game, you take control of Cadence, moving to the beat as you battle enemies and collect treasures. What makes this series even more exciting is its collaboration with the beloved world of The Legend of Zelda in Cadence of Hyrule.

What Makes It One of the Best Rhythm Games?

The game's innovative gameplay takes center stage, demanding players to synchronize their movements and attacks with the pulsating rhythm of the music, resulting in an interactive and utterly captivating rhythm experience that's truly one-of-a-kind. Furthermore, Crypt of the NecroDancer offers a commendable level of variety and customization, with an extensive array of characters, items, enemies, and game modes to explore, ensuring that there's always something new to discover. 

Advantages

• There is charming pixel art and an engaging original soundtrack for each zone.

• Simple yet deep combat system requiring strategy and timing.

• Challenging difficulty levels provide a sense of achievement.

• Abundance of content, including characters, items, bosses, and modes.

• Offers both cooperative and competitive multiplayer.

Drawbacks

• Frustrating loss of progress upon death.

• Adapting to varying tempos can be challenging.

• A lack of initial tutorials can overwhelm newcomers.

• There is potential for repetitive gameplay in the same zones.

Pricing and Availability

Crytp of the NecroDancer is not available as a free app. You'll need to make a payment through the app store or your preferred online platform to obtain it. The price may vary depending on your region and device, but it typically hovers around $15 USD. 

Conclusion

In the year 2023, the realm of best rhythm games has expanded to provide a wide range of experiences that cater to players with varying levels of skill and diverse musical preferences. Whether you enjoy tapping along to the beat, exploring distinctive playfields, or getting lost in captivating storylines, there is a rhythm game that suits your preferences. Discover the best rhythm games available on Android, PC, and online platforms to elevate your musical gaming experience.