Fitness Boxing feat. Hatsune Miku

I have to say that I'm new to the Fitness Boxing franchise, which prior to Miku entering the ring has seen two previous entries which suggests a certain level of popularity. Of course being an anime enthusiast, it took Hatsune Miku's familiar teal noggin to raise an eyebrow - the idea of getting fit with a virtual pop idol was rather intriguing. At the very least I'd be looking daft to a good soundtrack!

I suppose the first and most important factor in a game like this is whether or not it actually works as a fitness application. It's all very well swinging in the air, but if it's not actually providing any benefit, it's basically a rhythm game. Happily I can say that not only did I break a sweat trying to keep up with the game, but it got my pulse rate up too. The game is clear and helpful in helping you to take the proper stances and shift your weight appropriately, and though it can't actually track these elements, if you put the work in, you'll see the benefit. Muscles feel worked, senses feel sharper and it feels like a genuine boxcercise experience, even if I can only compare it to that one class I went to at the gym because I a friend asked me to keep them company on their first go. 

That's not to say it'll turn you into a goliath, but it certainly seems to have an effect and as part of a more rounded routine, it's a good way to burn some calories.

The musical selection is solid at 24 tracks, but you can add another 10 with upcoming DLC.

So with the practicality out of the way, let's find out if it's actually fun! Thankfully it really is - the enthusiasm of Miku and friends draws you into what is essentially a rhythm game played by "punching" the notes, so you'll need to strap your Joycons to your wrists, take the appropriate stance and prepare to get your hits in. Squares will slide up both sides of the screen while you listen to either the standard MIDI tracks, of which their are 22, or 24 Miku tracks featuring the Vocaloid and her friends. We're here for Miku and it's by far the better soundtrack, so while the choice of tracks isn't massive, it's 2 CD's worth of great tunes that are enjoyable to work out to. Of course, peppered into the game is the encouragement and tips from Miku herself, and the chance to unlock more content as you progress. The game keeps track of your progress, and while the initial unlockable stable is a bit slim, there are DLC packs of extra music (2 sets of BGM with 3 titles each for $4.99 a throw) a new costume for Miku (another £$4.99) and if you're really into the game, you can buy a fitness editor DLC and create your own workouts ($9.99). 

Of course this all piles on more expense to the experience, and honestly that would be only gripe. The game is a lot of fun, far more than I expected for a fitness game. It's beautifully presented, easy to understand and actually benefits you from playing it, so I can't complain about anything in the package itself, just be prepared to pay for more content if you want the full experience. For me, it's worth it as I want to work sessions into my routine (any excuse to throw the Switch on during work hours!) but just know you'll likely be tempted to pay out more than the initial £44.99 if you fall under its spell.

I can't say I expected much from the title, but I'm genuinely impressed by how the developer has interwoven rhythm action into a training regime that takes advantage of all the energy a dance game would require and focus it into something useful. And that's really not something I can say about any other game I've played on the Switch!