Infinite Guitars Review – An Infinite Grind

Infinite Guitars is a brand-new game published by Humble Games and developed by Nikko Nikko. The rhythm RPG is Nikko Nikko’s first game, and I’d be lying if I didn’t warn you that it really shows at times.

Frankly, there is a list of things in Infinite Guitars that simply don’t work, but I want to applaud Nikko Nikko for at least being ambitious with their first title. Ambition is the core of Infinite Guitars, as the game tries to combine a series of gameplay design choices that traditionally have not been tried together.

While admirable, the non-traditional gameplay of Infinite Guitars is unfortunately not where the game fails. The game suffers from a lack of structure, uncertain direction, and what feels like rushed storytelling. The game’s failure in fundamental areas really undermines the unique take the gameplay is trying to offer.

Before delving into the game’s flaws, it’s important to acknowledge its strengths. Infinite Guitars is an artistic piece that deserves study and praise.

First and foremost, as a rhythm game, Infinite Guitars succeeds in delivering great music. The game’s rhythm segments are accompanied by rocking guitar tracks that gradually form into a full band as you collect more party members.

The rhythm segments in Infinite Guitars are plentiful and noticeable, as they replace attacks in the game. Unlike other turn-based RPGs, declaring an attack in Infinite Guitars loads up a rhythm game screen where players must mash the right buttons in succession (X, B, Y, A on the controller) with a successful minigame leading to a stronger attack.

The actual art style of Infinite Guitars is also admirable, featuring a cute and cartoony aesthetic that complements the game incredibly well. Despite the criticisms that will follow, it’s worth noting that the game’s art style is a standout feature.

The characters are another strong point, particularly JJ. Her relatable angsty teen persona makes her a standout among the cast. However, the lack of cohesive storytelling and dialogue in the game means that we don’t get enough time with some of the characters. Fortunately, JJ’s character is fleshed out through the game’s expressive art style.

Infinite Guitars tells the story of JJ, who is traveling through a series of floating islands with her grandfather, who made a promise to her late father to show her the world she was born in. JJ’s grandfather is determined to teach JJ the history of the great, guitar-powered-mech war that her people fought to liberate themselves, but JJ has no interest in such things and just wants to sit in the airship and play guitar.

The conflict arises when we discover that JJ’s power core, the device which keeps people alive in this world, is broken and must be replaced. A rare thing to find, JJ and her grandfather must explore the many islands around them to find a replacement.

JJ is a likable and relatable character, but the dialogue doesn’t always do a great job of expressing her character. Despite this, her overall vibe is easy to understand and relate to.

The story of Infinite Guitars suffers from serious pacing and cohesion issues. Throughout the game, there were several points where the player may feel genuine whiplash trying to keep up with what’s happening. Characters jump from place to place and between events with about two sentences of dialogue, making it difficult to follow the plot. The entire first level feels like a ride the player wasn’t ready for, leaving them confused and detached from the emotional beats that the game attempts to hit.

The gameplay outside of rhythm segments is slow and tedious, with constant enemy encounters and grinding in between levels. Getting to the boss often just sends the player back to the start of the level, making progress feel pointless. Overall, the game suffers from an identity crisis, trying to be a rhythm game, turn-based RPG, and character-driven story all at once. While each idea could work well on its own, the combination leads to an incohesive mess.

Despite the game’s flaws, it’s worth acknowledging Nikko Nikko’s ambition in attempting to merge so many gameplay elements. However, the lack of focus and cohesion makes it difficult to recommend Infinite Guitars to others.

Infinite Guitars was reviewed on the PC. Find more detailed looks at popular and upcoming titles in the Game Reviews section of our website! Infinite Guitars is available on the Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Humble Store and Steam.