DJ Hero 2 Set to Drops This Fall with Several New Features
After the massive success of DJ Hero last year, Activision and Freestyle Games are back with a sequel that promises to take virtual DJing to the next level. With DJ Hero 2 set to release in October 2010, fans can expect a game packed with new multiplayer modes, freestyle features, and a fresh lineup of music from over 100 top artists. The game will be available for Nintendo Wii, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3, and players who already own the original DJ Hero turntable controller can use it with the sequel.
A Star-Studded Soundtrack
One of the standout features of DJ Hero 2 is its massive soundtrack, featuring over 100 artists across multiple genres. Whether you love hip-hop, pop, techno, or dance music, this game has something for you. Some of the confirmed artists include:
- Hip-Hop Legends: Eminem, Dr. Dre, 50 Cent, LL Cool J, Mos Def, Grandmaster Flash
- Pop Icons: Lady Gaga, Rihanna
- Techno & EDM Powerhouses: Deadmau5, David Guetta, Tiësto
- Alternative Rock: Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Players will mix and scratch their way through 80 custom mixes. In addition, there will be original content from top DJs like Deadmau5 and David Guetta adding extra authenticity.
Multiplayer and Party Modes
Unlike other annual music game releases, DJ Hero 2 does not require new hardware. However, if you want to take full advantage of the new multiplayer capabilities, you might need a second DJ turntable controller. Here are some of the new game modes:
- DJ Battle Mode: Two players compete by hitting precise samples and beat juggling sequences. Whoever lands the most accurate scratches wins.
- Streak Battle & Checkpoint Battle: Players are judged on their ability to maintain accuracy over specific sections of a mix.
- Party Play Mode: Allows players to jump in and out at any time without stopping the music, similar to Guitar Hero 5.
- Karaoke Integration: A new microphone feature lets friends sing along and earn points based on pitch and rhythm accuracy.
With these enhanced social gameplay elements, DJ Hero 2 is shaping up to be a perfect party game.
Empire Mode: A Deeper Single-Player Experience
For those who prefer to play solo, DJ Hero 2 introduces Empire Mode, an expansive single-player campaign. Players will start as an unknown DJ and work their way up to become the head of an entertainment empire. The mode will require players to compete in battles, complete challenges, and earn new gear while traveling through different locations.
Empire Mode adds depth to the gameplay, allowing players to experience the rise to fame and fortune in the DJ world.
Freestyle and Customization
One of the biggest additions to DJ Hero 2 is its freestyle capabilities. Every song in the game will now feature sections where players can:
- Freestyle scratch to add personal flair.
- Drop custom samples to enhance tracks.
- Crossfade between different parts of a song, offering more control and creativity.
This means no two performances will ever sound exactly the same. Therefore, giving players a chance to make each mix uniquely their own.
The Evolution of Rhythm Games
The rhythm game genre has been evolving rapidly, and DJ Hero 2 aims to push it even further. Unlike traditional music games that rely on pre-recorded note charts, DJ Hero 2 offers a more interactive and immersive experience. By incorporating scratching, crossfading, and freestyle mixing, the game bridges the gap between gaming and real DJ techniques.
Activision is also ensuring that launch-day downloadable content (DLC) will be available, allowing players to expand their music library with additional songs and remixes.
Will DJ Hero 2 Be Another Hit?
The first DJ Hero took the gaming world by surprise with its innovative gameplay and well-received soundtrack. With DJ Hero 2, Activision is doubling down on its strengths, adding more music, more gameplay options, and better multiplayer experiences.
Fans of the first game, as well as newcomers looking for a fresh rhythm game experience, should mark their calendars for October 2010. With so many new features and an all-star lineup, DJ Hero 2 is shaping up to be one of the biggest music games of the year.
The Role of Celebrity DJs in the Game
DJ Hero 2 is not just a game—it’s an homage to the art of DJing. That’s why celebrity DJs like Deadmau5 and David Guetta are lending their talents and exclusive mixes to the game. The inclusion of these international powerhouses brings a sense of authenticity and prestige to the game, giving players a virtual stage that mirrors the real world.
Additionally, legends like Grandmaster Flash, DJ Qbert, and Tiesto help round out a diverse roster, reinforcing DJ Hero 2’s commitment to multiple styles—from hip-hop and house to techno and dubstep.
Multiplayer Showdowns – Bringing the Club to Your Living Room
Party gamers rejoice—DJ Hero 2 is built for competition. With support for two turntables and a microphone, players can now perform in group settings or go head-to-head in fierce battles. DJ Battle Mode is where the sparks fly, but Party Play makes it easy for anyone to jump in. With drop-in/drop-out capabilities, the game works like a living jukebox—tap a button and join the fun.
The added karaoke-style mic integration means friends can now sing or rap along to the beat, giving DJ Hero 2 a fuller party game vibe. It’s a great evolution that brings both solo and social gamers into the mix.
Building a Music Empire With Empire Mode
Single-player campaigns often take a backseat in rhythm games, but not here. In DJ Hero 2’s new Empire Mode, players start from the bottom and rise through the ranks of the DJ world. Along the way, you’ll earn gigs, unlock venues, and build a reputation as the ultimate party rocker. This gives the game added depth and a sense of narrative progression—perfect for gamers who like a little story with their beats.
The Evolution of DJ Gaming – Can DJ Hero 2 Keep the Momentum?
DJ Hero 2 is more than just a sequel—it’s a bold evolution. With rhythm games facing stiffer competition and changing tastes, DJ Hero 2 banks on creativity, competition, and community to stay relevant. The expanded multiplayer features, deeper career mode, and broader artist lineup show Activision’s intent to not just follow the rhythm game trend but set it.
Whether you’re a seasoned DJ Hero vet or new to the series, the sequel promises more immersion, more music, and more fun.
