Vib-Ribbon

Vib-Ribbon Gameplay

Vib-Ribbon, developed by NanaOn-Sha, is a unique rhythm video game that was originally released on the PlayStation console. The game's visually minimalist and auditory-centric design offers a profoundly different experience. The key character is Vibri, an expressive and adorable vector line graphic, who skips along musical 'Vib-Ribbon(s)', turning your favourite CDs into custom-made levels.

Objective

The main crux is to guide Vibri safely along a series of evolving rhythmic pathways according to the beat, rhythm, mood and tunes of the music. The player's objective is to cross the finish line unscathed, by successfully manoeuvring Vibri over the obstacles.

Game Controls

The game controls are quite simple to understand, yet tough to master. The player uses the four basic PlayStation controls: up, down, left, and right. Each button corresponds to different types of obstacles, identified as different symbols on the track. For instance, a loop corresponds to pressing left and right buttons, a block corresponds to the down button, and a wave corresponds to the up button. The player must press the correct button as Vibri crosses the obstacle to successfully navigate it.

Morphing Character

One of the most creative features is Vibri's ability to morph. If the player makes repeated mistakes, Vibri devolves from a rabbit to frog and finally to a worm. Conversely, perfect gameplay lets Vibri evolve into a ‘princess form’. These transformations significantly add to the curiosity, joy, and challenge of the gameplay.

Score System

The performance of the player is gauged by points. Earning points can be done by successfully overcoming obstacles and maintaining the correct rhythm. The higher the in-sync performance of the player with the game, the higher the score. Furthermore, the score is directly proportional to Vibri’s form. Worm Vibri earns one point per obstacle, Frog Vibri two points, while Rabbit Vibri earns three points.

User-generated Levels

The game is bundled with a few premade songs, but the magic really happens when the player uses their own CDs. When a CD is input, the game analyses the audio data and creates custom levels, making each playthrough a new experience. This feature adds a remarkable replayability and personalisation factor to the game.