• Publisher: Mastiff
  • Release Date: Aug 29, 2005

Mixed or average reviews - based on 28 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 28
  2. Negative: 1 out of 28
  1. While there are some interface concerns that all versions of this game seem to suffer from, on the whole it's pretty darned awesome.
  2. 80
    It's a beautifully crafted game and the work Andamiro have put into it has to be respected. Rather than the same rehashed and reused background images over and over again there are polished, well-animated videos. [JPN Import]
  3. The key is that weird dancing mat. It enables the choreographers to more precisely guide your path from arrow to another - it's about movement arcs, not connect the dots. [Oct 2005, p.88]
  4. Quotation forthcoming. [Oct 2005]
  5. The game's pitched a bit too far towards the hardcore crowd that's already spent plenty of time the arcade version, which adds more replay value if you get really into things, but more beginner tracks would have been nice.
  7. Beginners will likely find themselves overwhelmed with the game’s complicated steps and unforgiving mechanics, even on the easiest settings. Dancing game veterans, on the other hand will relish the challenge and find the huge list of songs refreshing.
  8. 80
    The unique design of the dance mat allows for some frenetic new dance moves to keep you and the 100+ songs occupied for a while.
  9. Flawed but on the right track. If anything, it just needs some tweaking to make it easier and a little friendlier to players new to the concept of hitting arrows in time with a beat.
  10. A revolutionary dancing game, but it’s certainly an evolution of the genre in its dance pad orientation and addition of a center button.
  11. Taken altogether, it isn't hard to recommend Pump it Up Exceed to a number of groups: those that love DDR and have played through all of those games, those that are looking for a DDR-like game with a well-made dance pad, and those who are looking for a game to use as a weight-loss tool.
  12. To fans of the genre, it's stellar. It's got just over one hundred songs, each with their own backgroud videos, modes that test both your stamina and your composure, and more of what people have come to expect from dancing games.
  13. The arcane unlock requirements will put off people who aren't already sold on the idea of playing dance games, and may even frustrate less die-hard fans. Still, if this sounds like your kind of game, it's worth the money.
  14. The formula remains the same as other rhythm games, but it’s enough of a new twist if you’re looking to break away from DDR for a while and try something with a slightly different and successful approach to the genre.
  15. Despite the disturbing moniker and somewhat unintuitive front-end, the booty of this beast is a dancing joy. Clearly a step up and to the right from "DDR."
  16. In Andamiro's Pump It Up: Exceed, the first US home edition of a popular Korean dancing series, we're finally presented with a good alternative to DDR.
  17. While DDR fans may be a bit put off by the “natural” layout of the buttons, the stellar music and fun graphics will have you making room on your floor for a new dance pad.
  18. 72
    With the variety in the huge song selection there's a lot of dancing to love here. It's still just a shame that the presentation and design of everything around the dancing still needs some work.
  19. Complements "DDR" in the same way that strawberry jam complements peanut butter and bread. Peanut butter is fine by itself. Mix it with some homemade jam and you may never eat one without the other again.
  20. The lack of unique modes is disappointing, as is the lack of focus on newbies.. Hardcore “dancers” will be in heaven, but everyone else will find themselves left in the dust.
  21. Although less flashy than the more reknowned DDR series, Pump it Up debuts with a fun selection of tunes, and the brilliant 5-button setup.
  22. Overall PIU is best enjoyed by DDR fans looking for a little challenge. The game is too brutal on beginners to win many converts as only the patient and diligent will stick with it long enough to get good at it.
  23. Walk right past this title and pick up the latest version of "Dance Dance Revolution," for whatever system you like.
  24. It’s a dancing game designed for hardcore dancers that are willing to spend the time to relearn their footing.
  25. 60
    "DDR" veterans are sure to Pump It Up, but if you're just starting out then it's best to start with something easier.
  26. More than a knockoff, less than original. [Oct 2005, p.102]
  27. I just can't work up a sweat with Pump it Up -- my treadmill is easier to use and more fun. But hard-core dance game fanatics looking for a "DDR" alternative definitely should check it out.
  28. 43
    They claim actual dance moves (or at least dance footwork) can be learned from the game, and that the game is much more accessible from a dancing background. Here's the huge problem with this claim - Pump It Up does absolutely nothing innovative with its step patterns at all.
User Score

Generally favorable reviews- based on 11 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 3
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 3
  3. Negative: 0 out of 3
  1. ReneH.
    Aug 20, 2005
    Very very good.
  2. Jerry
    Jul 27, 2005
    I played the pump it up arcade game and it was the most addictive game I have ever played. I'm not much on arcade games, but when I played this one I spent over 20 dollars on it in 3 days. I love it. It is fun and easy to play. In just about an hour I was ready to play Beethoven's Virus, a level five song (five equals hard). Trust me it is an awesome game that I think everyone, gamers and non gamers alike, would love to play. Full Review »
  3. BillyBob
    Jun 5, 2005
    This game is off the hook. The best dancing game ever.