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Stars indicate the most critically-acclaimed games.
Gitaroo-Man

Generally favorable reviews
Based on 21 critic reviews
How did we calculate this?
Based on 17 votes
Read user comments
Rate this game >
Game Info
Publisher: KOEI
Developer: KOEI
Genre(s): Music
Players: 4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Release Date: February 19, 2002
Summary
An entirely new type of music/rhythm game, where your instrument is your weapon to fight against evil. Unlike traditional music games which simply featured pressing buttons in rhythm with on screen actions, Gitaroo-Man requires players to use both the analog stick and the controller buttons at the same time, controlling the on-screen character with jumps, ducks and attacks. [KOEI]
Cheat Codes & Hints: Cheat Code Central Game Revolution
Also On The Web: Official Website
What The Critics Said
All critic scores are converted to a 100-point scale. If a critic does not indicate a score, we assign a score based on the general impression given by the text of the review. Learn more...
Game Informer
The best rhythm game ever released. [Mar 2002, p.78]
GameZone
Quite simply, Gitaroo-Man lays the funk down on all competing musical games currently on the market with enough left over style to put a particular K9 back in the doghouse.
Read Full Review >GamePro
Transcending PaRappa, this Japanese import combines innovative control with a hot soundtrack for a frustrating yet addictive experience.
Read Full Review >My Gamer
Koei's fresh burst of creativity is a relief from the other music games that just don't quite cut it.
Read Full Review >GameSpot
Arguably the most original and inventive rhythm game since the advent of "Dance Dance Revolution" or the original "Parappa the Rapper," and it's easily one of the best rhythm games for the PlayStation 2.
Read Full Review >IGN
It has a huge variety of rocking music, fascinating graphics, and an original gameplay system that manages to hold up surprisingly well in comparison to the monotonous rhythm competition.
Read Full Review >GameSpy
Overall it shows how a rhythm game should be made: it's weird, witty, and addictive.
Read Full Review >G4 TV
While the graphics aren't especially mind-blowing, they complement the game's overall feel and make the unbelievable story that much more appealing.
Read Full Review >Next Generation Magazine
It's that eclectic mix of gameplay and personality that makes this a must-play. [Nov 2001, p.105]
TotalGames.net
For the most part this is a fairly solid example of the genre, although positioning the cone can feel somewhat erratic thanks to the slightly jerky controls.
Read Full Review >All Game Guide
Its easy-to-learn gameplay will hook you, and its attractive audiovisual package will reel you in.
Read Full Review >Play Magazine
The game system is very addictive, and the hilariously bizarre scenarios are wonderfully conceived and drawn, with each stage playing out like some futuristic rock opera from the fruity side of the Japanese aesthetic. [Mar 2002, p.43]
GamerWeb Sony
The sheer appeal and addictive quality of this title is unmistakable.
Read Full Review >PSX Nation
It's meant for those players that can achieve a perfect rating in "Dance Dance Revolution" and are still hungry for more hand-eye coordinated punishment after working out a sweat.
Read Full Review >Electric Playground
Gitaroo Man's key is that it truly makes you feel that you are producing the music with your actions and that is very satisfying.
Read Full Review >PSM Magazine
A fun game for a while, offering players cool music a weird story, and intense gameplay. [Feb 2002, p.44]
Official U.S. Playstation Magazine
As a game to pick up here and there just to jam through, Gitaroo couldn't rock any harder. [Feb 2002, p.107]
Electronic Gaming Monthly
A great combination of frantic, Japanese guitar rock and wacky anime-inspired action. [Feb 2002, p.148]
XenGamers
The music alone will draw you back for a few repeat plays, just dont expect it to last much longer than a single rental period.
Read Full Review >What Our Users Said
The average user rating for this game is 9.0 (out of 10) based on 17 User Votes
Note: User votes are NOT included in the Metascore calculation.
John Y. gave it a10:
This game just blows all others away. As classic as Parappa the Rapper was, Giratoo Man RULES!
Mattias A. gave it a 10:
This game is one of the best games I've ever played, and I've played tons of games in my life. The music is so [Censor] good, and I can't figure out how a game can be that good, please somebody tell me.
Emily K gave it a 10:
This game is too addicting for it's own good. intuitive and fresh gameplay, awesome soundtrack, great voice talent, and a quirky and entertaining story makes this game stand out above all other rhythm games released.
Avian S. gave it an 8:
Having never really played many rhythm games, I was a bit wary of this one. I played a demo of stage 2 and that funky synth Flying-O got me hooked! I just bought the UK version and the other stages fit in really well, surely accomodating any music taste. The concept is refreshing, the graphics are cutesy but fun and the soundtrack is so addictive that I dare anyone who has played it to go a full day without humming at least one tune! The Vs mode appeals to me as it adds greater longevity (esp. if you find an opponent that has no rhythm!) I would love to rate this game higher than an 8 but, for me, it just ain't long enough. I'll need at least another 5 stages on Gitaroo-Man 2 please!
Enthasius gave it a 9:
I've only got the single stage demo, but im hooked to it anyway, I can't wait to get my axe-strumming hands on the full game!
Nick gave it a 10:
I have just played the demo and I'm hooked already can't wait for it's release in uk, move over Pa'crapper! This dude is commin in with a criticle soundtrack and style galore!
Nick H. gave it a 10:
All your base are belong to us! Make your time. As far as the rhythm action genre goes this game is by far one of the most challenging yet entertaining. The music sticks in your head and kicks ass all at the same time. These are songs you want to be humming in class. Addictive and inventive, rhythm action fans have a new must have game for their collections.
