The reviews have started to pile in for Fuser, a music and rhythm game developed by Harmonix Music Systems. The same team behind some of the biggest music video games, including both Guitar Hero and Rock Band, has returned to create this music mixing title. The results are mostly positive, as Fuser seems to have a solid concept, a deep creation system, and great music. Although, some of the gameplay and package as a whole may feel incomplete.
As a game that allows players to fulfill their DJ dreams, Fuser has an impressive soundtrack list. DJs are able to create music by mixing songs, which provides a good deal of fun. Fuser also supports multiplayer, meaning the experience can be enjoyed by many, but the campaign is the focus of the game.
Fuser comes with a progression system that feels more in-line with the likes of Overwatch or Fortnite, and not a music and rhythm game. There is also an in-game store, where more content will certainly come. Some of these aspects make the game feel a bit more games-as-a-service and less complete. Overall, Fuser seems to be a great addition to the rhythm and music genre, and although perhaps not quite as complete as some of Harmonix's other games, Fuser is proof that the developer still knows how to create fun games in the genre.
Screenrant (Alex Santa Maria)
It's commendable that Harmonix has found a way to salvage the technology from its board game Dropmix and present it to a (hopefully) much wider audience in Fuser. If messing around with songs or producing a DJ set to share on the Internet sounds even remotely appealing, then this game is a solid pickup. The existence of an in-game store (which was empty during the review period) indicates that more songs are coming, and Fuser will likely produce some unusual jams in the coming months. Just know that an inconsistent scoring system and limited modes mean that Fuser isn't really going to scratch the rhythm game itch.
Score: 50/100
PlayStation Universe (Eric Hauter)
With a huge variety of music, an amazing UI interface, and enough content to keep you happily bobbing your head for days, Fuser is one of the best music games ever made. Even those with no musical skill will enjoy learning how to create great sounding mixes in Fuser, and the game gives them plenty of leeway to practice. Fuser is a burst of happiness, light, and live music, all of which are sorely needed in the world right now. The highest recommendation.
Score: 95/100
God is a Geek (Chris White)
Fuser is as exciting as it is creative, with plenty of options to make music through different genres. Harmonix has made a colourful and enjoyable game, and I can't recommend it enough.
Score: 95/100
The Digital Fix (Andrew Shaw)
Fuser brings back something that has been so sorely missed this generation, something that Harmonix does better than anyone else; connecting us to the music that defines us. This game is an absolute joy.
Score: 90/100
Daily Star (Tom Hutchison)
I suspect only those who are really into sticking with practising the skills available, like with a real instrument, will carry on playing this long after the novelty wears off. But if you’re looking for something fun, colourful and different that you can share with pals at home during the dark lockdown weeks ahead, give it a go.
Score: 4/5
Siliconera (Graham Russel)
What matters most is the music, and music is what Harmonix has always done best. It’s not the most polished or accessible release from the team. Even still, it delivers on making some fun mashups. It feels genuinely cool to play under the right conditions, and those conditions aren’t too hard to manufacture.
Score: 70/100
Dualshockers (Sam Woods)
While there’s definitely fun to be had with Fuser, the not-particularly-musically-gifted people (like myself) may struggle. The budding Calvin Harris and Tiesto’s of the world, on the other hand, will surely find enjoyment in the game.
Score: 65/100
Thanks to a tutorial-heavy campaign and a large learning curve, Fuser may feel more like a tech-demo than a full-fledged experience. For some, that may not be an issue at all. The creation tools may be complicated, but the result is something that allows players to create truly interesting and unique music.
Fuser will be coming to PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One on November 10.