Machine Guides

Game History

Groove Coaster is a rhythm game franchise developed by Matrix Software and published by Taito that originated on mobile devices before expanding to arcades. The series debuted on iOS on July 28, 2011, with players tapping, holding, and sliding notes in synchronization with music while riding virtual roller coasters through psychedelic environments.

The arcade version, known as Rhythmvaders in some regions outside Japan, was released on November 5, 2013, replacing the mobile version's touchscreen controls with two large "BOOSTER" controllers featuring white buttons. This distinctive cabinet design featured a sideways wide-screen monitor and controls resembling spinning record turntables.

The arcade version introduced a different gameplay experience where players must fill at least 70% of the GROOVE gauge to clear stages, with the gauge flashing yellow in the arcade version. The game featured a mix of songs from Taito's in-house music group Zuntata, Vocaloid songs, licensed tracks, and crossovers from other video games.

How to Play

Objective

The main goal of Groove Coaster is to hit notes in synchronization with music to achieve the highest possible score. You must fill at least 70% of the GROOVE gauge to clear each stage. The game simulates the experience of riding a roller coaster through psychedelic environments while interacting with musical elements. The ultimate objective is to achieve perfect timing on all notes and achieve the highest grade possible on each song.

Controls

• BOOSTER Controllers: Two large circular controllers with white buttons
• Left Button: Hit notes that appear on the left side of the screen
• Right Button: Hit notes that appear on the right side of the screen
• Both Buttons: Press both simultaneously for special notes
• Start Button: Located on the arcade cabinet, used to start the game and navigate menus

Gameplay

• Starting the Game: Press the Start Button to begin your rhythm adventure.

• Song Selection: Choose from a variety of songs across different difficulty levels. Each song has its own unique note patterns and visual environment.

• Note Types: The game features several types of notes:

  • Tap Notes: Hit the corresponding button when notes reach the target line
  • Hold Notes: Hold the button down for the duration of the note
  • Slide Notes: Follow the path while maintaining contact with the button

• Scoring System: Your performance is evaluated based on timing accuracy:

  • CRITICAL: Perfect timing
  • GREAT: Slightly off timing
  • GOOD: Noticeable timing error
  • MISS: Failed to hit the note

• GROOVE Gauge: A gauge that fills as you successfully hit notes. You must fill at least 70% of the gauge to clear the stage.

• Grade Evaluation: At the end of each song, you receive a grade based on your performance, with S being the highest and F being a failure.

• Game Completion: Successfully complete songs to unlock additional content and progress through the game's various modes.