Frederic - Evil Strikes Back - The Bigger, Better, More Awesome sequel. Great new tracks. Great new locations. Great new features. Great new story.
The core gameplay tasks players with hitting notes that scroll down the screen in time with the music. These notes correspond to different piano keys, which players must press on their computer keyboard to play the notes successfully. This gameplay mirrors popular rhythm titles like Guitar Hero, but with the twist of using a piano keyboard layout instead of a guitar.
Players praise the rhythmic challenge presented by the gameplay. On higher difficulty settings, the notes move quickly and require precise timing to hit correctly. Adapting to the piano key layout, which differs from a standard QWERTY keyboard, adds to the difficulty. However, reviewers who enjoy rhythm games and are willing to practice find the challenge rewarding to overcome.
The controls allow for customization, which players appreciate. Some experiment with using the ASDF row for white keys and the IOP row for black keys, finding a setup more comfortable for their playstyle. This adaptability enables players to tailor the experience to their preferences.
As players progress through the musical duels, they report a satisfying sense of improvement in their skills and the ability to master increasingly difficult songs. The rewarding feeling of finally conquering a challenging track after multiple attempts seems to be a major draw of the gameplay.
The diverse soundtrack also captivates players. While the previous title featured arrangements of Chopin's compositions, this sequel includes remixed versions of popular modern songs spanning various genres. Reviewers welcome this variety, enjoying the opportunity to tackle a wide range of musical styles and challenges.