E3 06: Dance Dance Revolution Ultramix 4 Preshow Report

Konami is keeping the rhythm alive on the original Xbox and has announced the upcoming release of Dance Dance Revolution Ultramix 4. Veterans of the series should be pleased to learn that Ultramix 4 will feature 65 new songs, including licensed tracks and Xbox-exclusive dance remixes, and will also feature enhanced versions of the quest, party, and jukebox modes. At the same time, beginners will have an easier time getting into the game, thanks to the new "how to play," trial, and super easy gameplay modes. It's not hard to break a sweat in any of the gameplay modes, though Ultramix 4 will also see the return of the workout mode, which is specifically designed to help you shed those unwanted, Halo-induced pounds.

For those who prefer to do their dancing with others--and hey, who doesn't?--Ultramix 4 will include four-player action and will bring back the same Xbox Live functionality that the Ultramix subseries has become known for. You'll be able to go up against another player in a head-to-head You Got Served-style dance-off, take part in online competitions, and download new songs and dance steps. Konami also says you'll be able to upload your own content, which we assume will include the custom background videos and custom dance steps that Ultramix 4 will let you create. As an additional perk for those who have been keeping up with the series, Ultramix 4 will be compatible with the downloadable music packs from the first three Ultramix games, giving you access to a whopping 75 additional dance tracks.

Dance Dance Revolution Ultramix 4 is set for a fall 2006 release and will be exclusively available for the Xbox.