BEATABLE has launched as an exciting mixed reality rhythm game that utilizes hand tracking controls, and it is currently available in early access for Quest users.
Haptic feedback plays a pivotal role in enhancing immersion within games. While its often subtle cues may go unnoticed, players quickly recognize its absence. A notable recent example showcasing effective feedback is Arken Age, where every movement feels dynamically responsive. However, achieving such interaction without controllers and relying solely on hand tracking presents a unique challenge. This challenge is one of the reasons BEATABLE piqued my interest during its initial announcement last month.
I didn’t expect a mixed reality rhythm game focused solely on hand tracking, using your table as an instrument, from developer XR Games, known for titles like Starship Troopers: Continuum and Hitman 3 VR: Reloaded. Setting up the game is fairly straightforward: simply face forward, position your hands flat on your table with your palms facing down, and hold still. After that, you can select a song and choose from four difficulty levels.
This entire process is quick and accompanied by useful tutorials. It brings to mind Prope’s lesser-known Wii title, Let’s Tap, an unlikely comparison I never anticipated making. Instead of placing a Wiimote on a cardboard box, you are utilizing common furniture found in your home, such as your coffee table.
In BEATABLE, players engage with the action across four distinct lanes, tapping notes as they cross the designated line. Actions include simple taps, simultaneous taps across different lanes, and ‘hold notes’ that require maintaining your finger’s position for a period and perhaps even zigzagging across lanes at more challenging levels. I found it to be very responsive, with little to no noticeable latency during my hour-long gameplay session. The physical feedback compensates well for the lack of haptics with hand tracking.
When I missed notes, it felt more like a personal mistake rather than a technical malfunction, leading me to repeatedly attempt to surpass high scores set by XR Games employees or other content creators. Points are given based on timing, contributing to a growing multiplier through a combo system. Although the music selection, which includes only 13 tracks in early access, is fitting for the game, hand clapping or finger snapping adds a touch of extra variety.
However, there are some inconsistencies. BEATABLE struggles to register softer taps on each lane, a problem that persisted even after multiple recalibrations. This doesn’t necessitate pounding the table, but it does require more force for inputs to register effectively.
Additionally, there is an accessibility issue that may vary from player to player, as demonstrated in the gameplay footage above. My left hand can easily snap fingers, whereas my right struggles. While single notes are manageable with either hand, higher difficulty tracks demanding simultaneous finger snaps can feel uncomfortable.
Introducing an option to disable certain requirements or modify them, even if it results in fewer points, would be a welcomed change. Nonetheless, the ability to snap fingers with both hands outside of songs to transition between mixed reality and a fully immersive environment adds an undeniable cool factor, further enhanced by impressive sound design.
Players won’t need much time to explore everything BEATABLE has to offer, and I’m optimistic based on my early access experience. By merging mixed reality gameplay with everyday items, XR Games provides an innovative approach to the typical challenges associated with hand tracking. However, some refinements are necessary to fully realize this concept, yet BEATABLE is making a commendable start.
BEATABLE is currently available on the Meta Quest platform for a price of $9.99.