Hololive Dreams: A Rhythm Game with a Unique Twist

Hololive Dreams is making waves in the gaming world, and it’s not just your average rhythm game. Rooted in the beloved virtual VTuber agency Hololive, this game brings together a roster of digital influencers who stream everything from gaming to concerts, and aims to pull in players who might not usually dive into music-centered gameplay.

Launched on July 23, Hololive Dreams integrates RPG elements into its rhythm game framework, which, according to the development team, is a strategic move to broaden its appeal and make the gaming experience more engaging. In an exclusive chat with Mr. O, the game’s Producer, and Mr. K, the Head Supervisor of Gaming Business at COVER, the co-producers of the game, they shared insights about the challenges of creating a rhythm RPG with over 50 virtual characters and 150 songs!

Mr. O emphasized the team’s goal to create a game that surpasses the typical scale of rhythm games. “We wanted something that captivates even those who may not be fans of rhythm games. If someone is drawn to the characters but isn’t interested in the music aspect, it often limits their engagement. This game is designed to elevate that experience,” he explained.

Set on a mysterious, uninhabited island somewhere in the ocean, players can build their own theme park and tackle quests to expand their territory. The developers have made it clear that music plays a pivotal role in how players progress through the game. “The rhythm mini-games are woven into the gameplay loop, helping you advance while also enhancing your park,” they noted. This structure is intended to motivate even those who may not be die-hard rhythm game fans to join in.

Alongside the main rhythm gameplay, Hololive Dreams offers a variety of mini-games, featuring challenges like obstacle courses and Mahjongg. “We’ve got four different types of mini-games,” Mr. O mentioned, highlighting a rope-skipping game, a puzzle game, and an obstacle course that can host up to 16 players at once, along with a card game that merges elements of poker and Mahjongg.

Music is undeniably at the heart of Hololive Dreams. With a staggering collection of over 150 songs, including original tracks and covers from Hololive, the developers aim to stand out in Japan’s bustling rhythm game market. “With so many rhythm games out there, we knew we had to bring a substantial library from the get-go,” Mr. O said. They included songs for each of the 54 Hololive talents, ensuring players have a deep and varied musical experience.

To curate the song list, the developers worked closely with Hololive VTubers to strike a balance that resonates with fans. “We selected cover songs that would appeal to a Japanese audience, consulting with each talent to incorporate songs they loved,” Mr. O shared. “Every character gets their time to shine; our goal was to ensure fairness and inclusivity in representation.”

Like many games of its kind, Hololive Dreams will host regular events to keep players engaged. While it’s available on both PC and mobile, the events will primarily target mobile users, featuring about three events each month. Players can nurture their characters, growing their skills over time, which leads to higher scores in live concert performances during these events.

The team has also hinted at ongoing expansions for the game, starting with two initial areas, Harmony Garden and Mega Sphere, set to broaden post-launch. “We plan to introduce more areas over time, spotlighting different talents as we go along,” they noted, assuring fans that everyone will receive their moment in the limelight.

For fans eager to jump in, Hololive Dreams is now available on iOS, Android, and PC/Steam, opening a new chapter in the blend of rhythm and role-playing gaming.