REVIEW
SingStar 90s
By Michael Pugliese - April 23rd, 2008
Yes, he’s in this game.
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It is very difficult to judge SingStar 90s on a graphical level as gameplay takes place over the original music video for whatever song is currently being sung. This came as quite a shock, as through my many experiences with Konami’s Karaoke games I was used to a graphical representation of myself strutting across a stage at various venues in front of screaming fans. Although this really has no bearing on the gameplay itself, I think SingStar’s simpler approach took away from the experience as a whole. SingStar does offer compatibility with the EyeToy camera, which essentially allows you to star on screen, but I found the video quality to be grainy and subpar. Overall, the presentation of the game is a nod to the more casual niche market for which the title is aimed.
As for the tracks that are available, there is something here for everyone — everyone that doesn’t mind the so-bad-it’s-great music that the 90s brought us. Featuring hits from artists such as Paula Abdul, Hootie and the Blowfish, MC Hammer, and En Vogue, it really is an eclectic mix of songs long forgotten. Chumbawumba even makes their return with “Tubthumping” (or that “I get knocked down” song) remembered so fondly by so few. Beyond the 30 available tracks, there are also 6 medleys that each contain songs surrounding certain theme. These medleys are a great way to mix it up a little and get those singers who tend to stick to certain songs to try something new.
Sound, as you would have to expect from a game as reliant on the sense as SingStar, is excellent. All the songs are master tracks, meaning they are all sung by the original artist and not some terrible cover band. This is definitely an edge that SingStar has over its competitors and adds to the authentic feel of the game. Although the voice of the original track cannot be completely turned off, the singer’s voice can be turned up to ensure it can be heard. This was especially needed in my case, as I found it difficult to be heard over the laughs being had by anyone in earshot.
On that note (what a pun!), I’d like to point out that it is in exactly that scenario that SingStar shines best. The game is meant to be played with a bunch of people surrounding you, as there is really nothing offered for playing through alone. There are no unlockables to be found as all 30 songs are available from the get go, so besides getting high scores or getting some practice in for show night, there is no incentive to play through solo. In a multiplayer setting however, there is plenty to do with modes such as battle, duet, or the party pleasing competitions which can see up to eight singers duke it out for bragging rights. SingStar is a great party game that just keeps on going through the evening.
What SingStar 90s brings to the table is a no-frills solid singing experience, with some great if not so classic music from the decade past. There’s a reason why Karaoke is loved the world over, and SingStar 90s is able to offer all the fun directly into your living room.
Score Breakdown:
Graphics: 7
Sound: 9
Control: 8
Fun: 8
Replay Value: 8
OVERALL SCORE: 8/10
I wish Chumbawumba would just stay knocked down.