PAX East 2025: Fresh Tracks Diversifies The Rhythmic Genre

Typically, the range for rhythm-based titles feels to already hit the ceiling. In the past with Guitar Hero & Rock Band to now with Crypt of the Necrodancer as well as Sayonara Wild Hearts: there is a generational shift to further expand on the formula. But this also open a window towards the next phase for the genre.

From developer Buffalo Buffalo, its debut IP Fresh Tracks shows to be a potent and refreshing approach that packs in action skiing into a rhythmic odyssey that the game takes you on. Alongside a unique premise that establishes the mechanic, there is also a steady plot that preoccupies those that let the game consume them.

“As Skaii, you must unite the splintered pantheon of Norwyn to defeat Mar, the Queen of Terror, and restore hope to the land,” the official description on Steam reads. “Fight, jump, and dodge increasing obstacles and menacing minions as you delve deeper into the darkness that has befallen the land of Norwyn.”

Concerning the meat of the game, you follow along an ‘on-rail’ journey with a literal engaging soundtrack that explores new rhythms and obstacles. Across the four genres there are: rap, classical, pop, and metal. Progression of the game explores these genres as part of this Nordic-influenced journey.

From my time with Fresh Tracks at PAX East this weekend, it is in an impressive state despite only being a beta build for the full game. In hand it’s responsive, intuitive, and addicting. Early levels that act like the tutorial bring a strong understanding to the basis for the gameplay. But when it is realized in the later levels, putting your skills to the test is where Fresh Tracks grabbed my attention the most.

Following the beat of the background while you play in-sync with your surroundings is truly engrossing. Between jumping over obstacles, ducking when needed and slashing roadblocks brings a lot of fulfillment when completing the stage. Surprisingly the game is extremely compatible with multiple inputs as the demo on the show floor did not overwhelm itself with the intense prompts I smashed in during my play. 

Adding to the immersion, the game does not feature a proper loading screen. Instead, each stage smoothly transitions into the select screen as you ski into the menu featuring the level select & the mobile Merchant. Even the difficulty select is part of this immersive feature. The store houses new upgrades including swords as well as abilities that help with your journey on this rouge-lite adventure.

If you’re interested in Fresh Tracks, you can wishlist the game by heading here.

Fresh Tracks aims to release sometime in 2025 for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC.