Q4 of this year is shaping up to be huge for rhythm games. First, Stage Tour was announced by RedOctane Games, a development studio led by rhythm game veterans. Now, Sound Stage has been announced to launch in Early Access for PC this fall. And Sound Stage is also by a group of rhythm game veterans, who created the development studio Echo Foundry Interactive. So it’s a battle of rhythm games made by rhythm game vets, and I cannot wait to see which lands on top. I will now focus on the Sound Stage news specifically, though you can learn more about Stage Tour here.
Sound Stage is a next-gen rhythm game that features a community-driven content catalogue, custom note chart creation, and multiplayer modes. Musical rhythm games are revived using intense gameplay, built-in creator tools, and a community platform for artists. You can shred guitar, play bass, or sing to your heart’s content using a keyboard, a controller, one of the compatible guitar controllers, or a microphone.
For its Early Access release, Sound System will include over 50 songs: a mix of legendary covers, established indie artists, and rising new bands. Core songs from emerging artists will be free, studio covers will be $1 (USD), and there are plans for DLC from new and established bands. An exclusive single will be released monthly.
Here are the game’s three distinct play modes, via Echo Foundry Interactive:
- Classic Mode — The core traditional arcade guitar experience with forgiving timing windows and no-fail gameplay, so new and casual players stay in a flow state and focus on the vibe and the music.
- Pro Mode — Designed for rhythm game veterans, this mode features tighter timing windows and DDR-style scoring (Gold/Perfect, Silver/Great, Bronze/Good). Miss a total of 11 notes, and it’s Game Over.
- Hardcore Mode — The ultimate challenge where one missed note means you’re out—perfect for e-sports integration, elite players, and leaderboard chasers.
Here is a new gameplay teaser trailer:
Sound Stage also revives the classic five-fret guitar rhythm experience with an innovative PulseMap Editor that is described as “Mario Maker meets Guitar Hero.” Here, players can upload their own music, create charts from scratch, or edit existing ones. Players can share charts with others.
Developed and published by Echo Foundry Interactive, Sound System will be released in Early Access for PC via Steam on October 16.
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