With the start of “Open Beta” testing this week, thousands of U.S. PC users will have the opportunity to dance virtually to songs from select WMG artists.
"This is by far the closest collaboration any major music label has ever had with an online game" said Howard Marks, CEO of Acclaim Games.
"DANCE! Online has started the music based game revolution which has captured the minds of hundreds of millions of players in Asia", said David Perry, the game's director and industry superstar designer.
In making the announcement, George White, Senior Vice President, Strategy and Product Development, WMG said, “With the enormous popularity of dance-based games in Asia and other parts of the world, we’re excited that our artists and music have the opportunity to reach the millions of fans who are participating in this growing phenomenon.”
In another video game industry first, Atlantic Records recording artist Cupid, with his hit single “Cupid Shuffle,” will make a personal virtual appearance in the game. Other artist-related announcements will follow where the artists will create their own avatar and play the game live online and chat with fans. The game will feature the artists’ latest music and personalized virtual items including artist-branded clothing, accessories and more. Players can compete to win autographed merchandise and other artist-branded products.
Players of DANCE! Online can create their own avatar and use either the keyboard or most PC compatible dance pads to match the beat of the song and to make their character perform choreographed dance steps. The game features up to 6 players dancing together and includes a variety of game modes and options. Players will be able to purchase optional items from the game shop to customize their virtual characters with clothing and various accessories. Players can also purchase “song packs” to dance to even more songs from WMG’s catalog. The game is free and will be supported by in-game advertising provided by IGA Worldwide.
DANCE! Online is directed by video game industry veteran David Perry. The game is in Beta testing beginning this week, which means that anyone who registers for an account can immediately play for free.