A great entry in the DDR franchise, however, the absence of a Challenge mode takes a lot away from experienced players.
User Rating: 8.2 | DDRMAX2: Dance Dance Revolution PS2
Well, this is not a review for someone who has never played a Dance Dance Revolution game before. If you have never played one, just buy one, any of them will have what you need get started. In fact, in that respect, this version may be better for a new player because of lesson mode. However, if you play a lot of Dance Dance Revolution, and you are trying to decide if this is the right game for you, read on and be enlightened. The gameplay in this game is no different from any of the other entries in the series (Barring Extreme, and it's eyetoy support). There are no special modes, like battle, or any minigames to play around with. However, the core DDR gameplay remains addictive and fun, as they continue cranking out harder and more interesting songs to play with. On that note, this mix has a very good set of songs, with a very balanced mix for players of any level. If you really want to know if you will like the choice of songs, just look at a song list on "DDR Freak" or any of the other sites. Aside from the songlist, the only things that change the game are the interface, and game modes. The interface for this game is really great, it is very simple to get around while using a dance pad, and everything is nice and well placed. Game modes, on the other hand, are severely lacking. Your options consist of: Single pad, dual pad, versus, Non-stop, workout, and Endless mode. Non-stop mode is not the same as challenge/Oni mode, which is sorely absent. And workout mode lacks in a non-stop option, for those who care. However, for many players, this set of options will be just fine, and not take away from the experience. Overall, DDRMAX2 is a fine entry in the Dance Dance Revolution series. Despite its shortcomings, if you enjoy Dance Dancing the night away, and you want some new songs to play, then add this to your collection. 
