What is DDR? Well if you have lived in a video game hole for the last few years, here’s a small breakdown…get it…breakdown. All joking aside, DDR is the widely popular dancing game that requires not only rhythm, but coordination and agility as well. You basically try to match the arrows that float by on the screen with the correct matching arrows on the dance pad that comes with the game or sold separately. The catch is that the arrows go by at such a frantic pace, it will take hours to literally memorize each song sequence. What’s more, how you obtain these correct steps is up to you. Some will try to watch the screen and time the arrows, some dance with the game, and others flat out just get their groove on, performing moves, spins, and other notions that gather onlookers to watch their trained routines as they pass by in the arcade. The point of it all is to time the arrows most precisely and score the highest points. It is crazy, it is frantic, and it is fun.

In DDR Extreme, you are privy to the same ideas, yet you have a few new twists that make this version fresh. The first notable addition to DDR Extreme is the song list, which this time incorporates many popular songs from the likes of Duran Duran, The Village People, Junior Senior, Pet Shop Boys, and many more remixes to get your feet a tappin’. With over 100 minutes of new tunes, fans will be happy with the new selection that is filled with energetic beats. I for one, not being a dance club regular, am happy to hear songs I grew up with in the early 80’s, rather than a mixture of obscure house beats.

Next, you will notice that this new version supports Sony’s Eye Toy Camera. Not only does this device allow you to watch yourself dance on the TV as well as play along with your hands and even feet, but also you can even participate in a variety of specially tailored Eye Toy games built into DDR Extreme. While this new Eye Toy experience is unique, those looking to purchase DDR as a work out tool using the Eye Toy will not get the same exhausted experience they would if they use the dance pad. The idea is nice, if only to get more use out of Sony’s camera.

One thing that is nice to see in this year’s addition is the option for a beginner’s mode that literally walks you through the game, how to time your steps, and which foot is best for each situation. Versions in the past just threw you in the ocean without a life preserver, which made most newcomers frustrated. Do not fret veterans, there is even a mode that is made for your swift feet and dancing perfection, so you will not feel as if you must dumb down your knowledge to have fun. Returning also is the edit mode in which you can edit the dance steps for each song and trade them with other players. Lastly returning is the famous “work out” mode, which allows you to play the game without the worrying of point progression while counting your calories lost while you play.

Fans, no doubt, will not even read reviews on this title, as they know what to expect. In all honestly, they do not care either, as long as there are new songs, a few new technical additions, and added hours of game play, they still will flock in numbers to get the latest version. If you have not entered the world of DDR yet, and you feel you have decent foot to eye coordination, you may find that this game is just as much as a blast as advertised. It is a fun way to play a game, and get some exercise all at the same time. With games like these, who needs the outdoors?