The 1996 title PaRappa the Rapper has been deemed the first influential rhythm game, whose basic template formed the core of subsequent games in the genre. Certain dance-based games require the player to physically dance on a mat, with pressure-sensitive pads acting as the input device. Rhythm games often feature novel game controllers shaped like musical instruments such as guitars and drums to match notes while playing songs. Many rhythm games include multiplayer modes in which players compete for the highest score or cooperate as a simulated musical ensemble. Games in the genre typically focus on dance or the simulated performance of musical instruments, and require players to press (or step on) buttons in a sequence dictated on the screen.
Rhythm game or rhythm action is a genre of music-themed action video game that challenges a player's sense of rhythm.
