Thumper

 Switch
Thumper Image
Metascore
85

Generally favorable reviews - based on 15 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 98 Ratings

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  • Summary: Thumper is rhythm violence: classic rhythm-action, blistering speed, and brutal physicality.

Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 15
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 15
  3. Negative: 0 out of 15
  1. Switch Player
    May 26, 2017
    92
    Thumper offers an extraordinary rhythm experience on the Nintendo Switch, and is heightened by its well-oiled reactionary gameplay, haunting soundtrack, and unique aesthetic. As one of the most enjoyable games on the console there's very little it does wrong, but it must be noted that there's not much staying power for those uninterested in chasing S-ranks.
  2. Metro GameCentral
    May 22, 2017
    90
    The best new rhythm action game for years, with a perfect blend of gameplay, music, and a frighteningly oppressive atmosphere.
  3. GamingTrend
    May 31, 2017
    90
    Thumper is a terrifyingly difficult game, but don’t let that deter you from experiencing its rhythm violence firsthand. The Switch port takes advantage of the system’s features quite well, and its speedy performance and killer sound design will rock your world.
  4. NintendoWorldReport
    May 18, 2017
    85
    As has been the case with quite a number of games I’ve enjoyed on the Switch to date I would gladly recommend Thumper to anyone, but would throw out two caveats as well. First, while I don’t think being good at rhythm games is necessarily essential to you being successful in the game, there’s no getting around the fact that being able to feel and anticipate the beats will help you immensely. The second is that this game gets to be extremely challenging, playing it has maxed out my personal intensity to the point that my thumb hurts from me mashing down the A button with apparently all of the force my hand can exert. I would expect that it is a game many people who decide to buy it won’t ever finish just because at some point the bar feels just a bit too high. Regardless, if you like its aesthetics, its pounding beats, and a stiff challenge, there’s really nothing holding me back from recommending it whole-heartedly.
  5. Cubed3
    Aug 14, 2017
    80
    More than living up to the "rhythm violence" tagline, Thumper leaves a lasting impression. Presenting a distinctive and adaptive score, together with an insane visual style and a difficulty level that rarely shows mercy, Thumper is a very effective showcase for the hardware abilities of the Switch, and a highly engaging experience on its own merits.
  6. Vooks
    Jun 21, 2017
    80
    With a heap of stages, designed to let you play a little or play a lot, a decent difficulty level and pretty visuals to match, I don't think you'll be disappointed. Some more variety in sight and sound wouldn't have been so bad, but the gameplay and continuous introduction of new gameplay elements forgive this.
  7. FNintendo
    Jun 27, 2017
    70
    A rhythm game requires intuitive controls and a good sense of progression and Thumper provides both. Players will have to pay close attention to their surroundings, especially to the sound, as their timing will have to be on the spot in order to advance and thanks to its gameplay mechanics, this is a game that easily seduces those who let themselves be wooed by catchy rhythms.

See all 16 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

Write a Review
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 21
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 21
  3. Negative: 2 out of 21
  1. dreamstate42
    Jun 17, 2017
    10
    For what it does and is, Thumper simply deserves the full score: A fantastic rhythm / action game. The concept is quite simple: You're a spaceFor what it does and is, Thumper simply deserves the full score: A fantastic rhythm / action game. The concept is quite simple: You're a space beetle on a track, and need to react to what's happening on the track in rhythm to the music. You only need the left stick and one button for this, which starts out easy, but gets incredible challenging in the later levels.

    The music is great, very dark but really fitting. Controls are super responsive and precise, really not much else to say.

    As mentioned, however, you might want to check out some gameplay videos before, to see if it appeals to you, but in general, I can absolutely recommend this game to anyone.

    (PS.: If you ever get the chance, check this game out on PSVR, too. Absolutely crazy)    … Expand
  2. Pimplup
    Nov 30, 2019
    10
    If this game's trailer and/or the rhythm game genre appeals to you at all, you're gonna love this game. For $20 ($5 if you get it on sale!)If this game's trailer and/or the rhythm game genre appeals to you at all, you're gonna love this game. For $20 ($5 if you get it on sale!) this is a must-have.… Expand
  4. Ryijun
    Jul 11, 2020
    10
    The best graphics on the switch from all existing projects to date, awesome visual effects and crazy complexity. The idea of a runner-musicThe best graphics on the switch from all existing projects to date, awesome visual effects and crazy complexity. The idea of a runner-music game is interesting and well implemented. But, as they say, not for everyone.… Expand
  5. insx
    Jun 4, 2018
    9
    A great rhythm game that's different to any other that I've played and hard to explain to anyone who hasn't played it. Some people say theyA great rhythm game that's different to any other that I've played and hard to explain to anyone who hasn't played it. Some people say they have finished all the levels in 8 hours, I think it will take me at least twice that, they must have great reflexes. The only minor complaint I have is that occasionally there is no discernible rhythm to the moves and it's hard to rely on visuals alone. It's great with the Switch's small screen and headphones but it's amazing on a big TV with good speakers with bass filling the room and the controller(s) rumbling in your hands.… Expand
  6. Tacet
    May 19, 2017
    9
    Wonderful graphics, killer soundtrack, and if you flinch you die. Awesome in handheld or on the TV with no lag. Totally worth it if your intoWonderful graphics, killer soundtrack, and if you flinch you die. Awesome in handheld or on the TV with no lag. Totally worth it if your into challenging rhythm games.… Expand
  7. DeusGod
    Jun 26, 2018
    8
    A game graphic makes my eyes are a bit sore. But still good ideas and good songs.
  8. Poussette
    Mar 17, 2018
    2
    Jeu trop dur musique toujours pareille je suis au rang 6 aucun checkpoint pour les boss c'est tout simplement frustrant et pas agréable

See all 21 User Reviews

Awards & Rankings

13
#13 Best Switch Game of 2017
59
#59 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2017
33
#33 Most Shared Switch Game of 2017

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