BIT.TRIP RERUNNER Review (PlayStation 5)

by Jim Smale · May 28, 2024

For this BIT. TRIP RERUNNER Review, The classic rhythm platformer is back as BIT. TRIP RERUNNER + RUNNER MAKER! The fun of the original now sports fresh mechanics, art, and soundtrack – plus RUNNER MAKER, which allows you to create custom levels. A must-play for rhythm newbies, experts, and everyone in between.

BIT.TRIP RERUNNER Review Pros:

Decent graphics.
853.6MB download size.
Platinum trophy.
Can rebind controls for both the keyboard and the controller buttons.
You can remap the controls.
Difficulty settings that affect score multiplier – obstacle density, checkpoints, stair assist, and bonk counter
Runner gameplay.
Opening tutorial level.
Two game modes – play and runner maker.
Runner Maker is a robust in-depth level creator where you can upload and download players’ Creations.
The Runner Maker mode has a level browser with filters.
Extras – imagery, words, and cutscene viewer. You unlock entries in these by collecting keys and choosing what to unlock.
Has a history of the Bit Trip games.
The play mode has three zones and bonus levels mode.
Collect boomboxes to unlock new soundtracks and graphic styles.
Tight solid controls as always.
The actions unlock over time.
End of level breakdown.
Difficult, brings the pain like none other.
You can use the d-pad or stick.
Big boss encounters.
The retro static effect can be turned on and off.
A lot of replay value.
Fully animated backdrops.
You can play the theme tune by moving the cursor up and down on the menu.
Each unlocked soundtrack also unlocks an additional 10 levels.
Still has the strong pull of just one more go.
Maintains the high standards of all the previous games and has you replaying levels and learning the level layout.
Voice choice – default or classic.
Full online leaderboards complete with filters.
The level creator has an initial tutorial pop-up for the menus and then you can reread them in the menu.
I managed to create a slew of new swear words and hate-filled descriptions of the game.

BIT.TRIP RERUNNER Review Cons:

The menu structure is cold and not as good as the last few games.
I get it’s a remake of an old game but they have kept it quite sterile looking out of the game.
Using the stick to play is not as smooth as the d-pad.
Will cause your blood pressure to rise!
Boss fights initially are tough because you don’t get any help as to what needs to be done.
Creating levels is fun but it does rely on you really digging into it all.
The game doesn’t state if the created levels are shared across all platforms.