Taiko no Tatsujin: Rhythm Festival The Setlist Edition is a rhythm game centered on drumming along to a selection of tracks from anime, Vocaloid, pop, and game music. Players take on the role of aspiring Taiko masters in the hub world of Omiko City, guided by Don-chan and the new character Kumo-kyun. The Setlist Edition bundles the base game with three song collections that expand the initial lineup of 76 tracks, providing immediate access to popular titles such as Gurenge, the ending theme from My Neighbor Totoro, Charles, MEGALOVANIA, Into The Night, and Feel Special.
Gameplay
The core loop involves striking red and blue notes in time with the music using either the official Taiko drum controller or standard button inputs on an Xbox controller. Four difficulty levels range from easy for newcomers to extreme for experienced players. Improvement Support lets users slow down specific song sections or isolate tricky passages for targeted practice before attempting full speed. Progression ties into a light story element in Omiko City, where successful performances earn rewards and advance a simple narrative about becoming a Taiko master. The game supports solo play or local two-player sessions in the main mode, with options to compete for high scores or play casually.
Game Modes
Taiko Mode serves as the primary experience, letting one or two players drum through the full song list from start to finish. Three additional party modes accommodate two to four players locally. Great Drum Toy War combines rhythm performance with strategy, as accurate play deploys toys that push back an opponent's forces on a shared field. Don-chan Band has up to four participants each handle a different instrument or vocal part during a concert performance, requiring coordinated timing for group success. Run! Ninja Dojo turns the rhythm inputs into a racing competition where players navigate obstacles and compete for first place. Online options include ranked matches against worldwide opponents and casual room matches that support Taiko Mode or Great Drum Toy War with friends or strangers.
Additional Features and Content
The Taiko Music Pass subscription unlocks more than 700 extra songs, with new tracks added monthly, while some individual songs remain available for separate purchase. The Setlist Edition specifically adds collections focused on anime songs, pops tracks, and Vocaloid material to the base 76-song roster. Customization elements such as outfits and nameplates can be earned through play. The game runs on Xbox Series X|S and PC, with full compatibility for the dedicated Taiko drum controller on both platforms. Local multiplayer requires one controller per player, and online features allow cross-region play in supported modes.
Is It Worth Playing?
This edition suits players seeking a straightforward rhythm experience with strong emphasis on timing and song variety. The built-in practice tools lower the entry barrier for beginners while still offering depth for those chasing high scores or mastering extreme difficulties. Local party modes provide lighthearted competition or cooperation for groups of up to four, and online ranked play adds a competitive layer for solo drummers. The bundled song collections and optional Music Pass deliver substantial replay value through a growing library of licensed tracks. Those who enjoy drumming along to anime openings, Vocaloid hits, and pop anthems will find consistent engagement, whether playing alone or sharing a session with others. The overall package delivers accessible rhythm gameplay supported by meaningful mode variety and ongoing content additions.
