DDRMAX2: Dance Dance Revolution

Cinescape

The visuals have been given an upgrade too. Now some of the songs feature the music video for the song playing in the background. It’s really cool and one of the better features to be implemented in the game.

GamingTrend

DDR aficionados will be disappointed by the lack of the Oni mode. However, one would be hard pressed to find another game with this many options, levels (songs), and customization in this game.

Gaming Age

Playing double is almost like learning DDR again from the beginning. That means that you get to have all that thrill of progression one more time! Seriously, it’s worth the price of an extra pad.

GameSpy

DDR freaks have bemoaned the removal of the ultra-difficult Oni mode, but the inclusion of user-editable nonstop courses of up to 20 songs each, which can also be used in the Workout mode (yes!), more than makes up for it.

GamePro

Simply put, DDRMAX2 is the DDR that players know and love, but slightly flashier. Fans won’t be disappointed.

PSM Magazine

It needs 5.1 support, but this is still the best DDR yet. [Nov 2003, p.42]

Yahoo! Games

An addicting synergy of videogaming, competition and physical activity, DDRMAX2 is an enjoyable game that can be played by just about anyone. Sure, the core concept is simplistic, but that doesn't mean it isn't good.

Game Chronicles

You’ll never catch me playing this game in the arcades but having DDRMAX 2 on my PS2 ready to humiliate myself in the privacy of my own home is undeniable fun.

Next Level Gaming

It's a must have for any DDR fan, yet easy enough to get started with! With three difficulty levels, and tons of songs to play, anyone will enjoy this game!

Deeko

To be fair, the game is essentially DDRMAX with slightly better graphics and new songs. I would have preferred it if the new graphics and songs were an add on disc… as nothing is really added to the game to differentiate it.

IGN

Same as it ever was -- which is not a bad thing, by any means.

Into Liquid Sky

Difficulty modifiers make the game much more enjoyable and the edit mode provides endless hours of play. However, die hard fans of the series may feel betrayed with the lack of challenge the game has to offer. But with an all star track list such as this no fan can afford not to pick this title up.

GameZone

While purists may scoff at the recycled music and lack of Oni mode, there is no denying that DDRMAX2 is the best DDR game yet.

Cheat Code Central

The tunes are crisp and the visuals are interesting to watch from a spectator standpoint; they don't distract from the dance symbols.

GMR Magazine

Like the annual football fix, it's a killer deal for the money, whether you're a casual fan or a liquid-limbed obsessive. [Nov 2003, p.88]

G4 TV

The best version of the game so far...It's also the best starting point for anyone who still hasn't gotten into the DDR phenomenon.

eToychest

A fairly simplistic game, an hour or even less spent with DDRMax2 will make even the most jaded gamer realize its charm. Even if it is not your cup of tea, I suggest you give it a try at least once.

GamingWorld X

Nothing in the world of electronic entertainment involves the mind and body quite like this game does.

Village Voice

Pick your songs from the series' most extensive music library yet (it includes Kylie, Dirty Vegas, obscure J-pop, and a host of fun, anonymous techno crap, and is now supplemented with some videos), calibrate the difficulty of the required moves, and simply follow the on-screen instructions. Can you dig it? I knew that you could.

Official U.S. Playstation Magazine

For DDR novices only. It's likely the best version of DDR yet - it's the most polished, with arguably the best roster of songs - but it's not all that different from the first MAX. [Nov 2003, p.132]

Electronic Gaming Monthly

Two-player is so much fun it makes MAX2 a worthwhile investment for anyone looking for a shallow but thrilling party diversion. And Workout mode is a blast if you're at all concerned with weight loss. [Nov 2003, p.185]

GameNow

Hardcore DDR fans will see the flaws, but DDRMAX2 is still a blast. [Nov 2003, p.52]

GameSpot

With the release of DDRMAX2, the US is finally getting a collection of songs that contains a few hits from this country rather than relying on the Eurodance and Japanese pop music for which the series is known.

netjak

Of course, every Bemani freak will want this, but anyone looking for a challenge or the more traditional arcade feel will either want to pass on this or just import the Japanese version. Konami seems to forget that what worked in Japan is working here. You shouldn’t try to mess with a good thing.

PSX Nation

A handful of extra modes that cater exclusively to the hardcore DDR player and some meaningless FMV extras makes DDRMAX 2 a rather poor evolution from last year’s DDRMAX prequel.

Game Informer

Where are the new modes? Where are the innovations? Not here, folks. This is just another DDR update for those who want more songs. [Oct 2003, p.122]

Play Magazine

DDRMAX 2 is still fun and a must for any fan of the series, but it would've been nice to have seen more in terms of new modes of play and improved visuals. [Oct 2003, p.71]