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Review of The Idolmaster Platinum Stars on PlayStation 4

by Tanya Krane Tanya Krane photo Jul 2016
Cover image of The Idolmaster Platinum Stars on PS4
Gamefings Score: 7.5
Platform: PS4 PS4 logo
Released: 28 Jul 2016
Genre: Simulation
Developer: Bandai Namco Studios, Tri-Crescendo
Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment

Introduction

Being a producer for a gaggle of idols isn't all sequins and glitter; it also involves a delicate balance of managing egos, schedules, and potentially having your heart melted by the adorableness. Welcome to the game that tries to make that chaotic world somewhat manageable: *The Idolmaster Platinum Stars*! Strap in as we unpack the glitzy and emotional rollercoaster that is leading your idols to superstardom.

Gameplay

In *Platinum Stars*, you step into the shiny shoes of a producer at the not-so-mighty 765 Production agency. The stakes are high; your job is to train a bunch of aspiring idols, and let's be real, none of them came with instruction manuals. Unlike its predecessors, this game opts for a fresh start, meaning that the idols are the same lovable characters you may know-each with established quirks and catchphrases-but the background story has been tossed out like last week's sushi. Your goal? Lead these sparkling gems to rehearse, perform, and eventually crush it on the grand finale stage. The gameplay is about as deep as a kiddie pool-your idols will go through training, lessons, and moving feelings, while you stare at your screen and occasionally shout encouragement or, in my case, reminder donuts. You can customize your idols, and their training can be tailored to emphasize specific skills, whether that's singing, dancing, or the fine art of making adorable hand gestures. As you progress, you'll unlock new songs and outfits-ensuring that they always look hotter than your morning coffee! Mixing rhythm games with management simulation, expect a lot of collecting and crafting, with song performances that can get downright addictive. The sweet spot lies in gradually building your idol group into the ultimate entertainment squad. Just remember: the closer they get to distilling pure star power, the more pressures they face, and more melodrama ensues. Let the emotional training montage begin!

Graphics

Ah, the visuals! Remember those fancy photo filters on social media that make everything look dreamy? *Platinum Stars* could certainly teach those filters a thing or two. The colorful, vibrant art style captures the essence of Japanese pop idol culture spectacularly. Character models are, if I dare say, pixel-perfect, making every dance move look so smooth they might even slip on a banana peel and still land perfectly! From flashy concert stages to pastel-themed training rooms, every frame is infused with enough sparkle to give a disco ball a run for its money. It's a feast for the eyes that might lead you to question whether you should or shouldn't try to pull off the same outfits in real life. (Hint: Don't.)

Conclusion

So, does *The Idolmaster Platinum Stars* deliver the idol experience you dream of? Yes and no. While it absolutely shines in character designs and offers a broad spectrum of interactive gameplay, it occasionally feels like a sim-lite experience lacking the emotional depth of its story-laden predecessors. This game is not so much a plot-driven saga but a charming escapade-perfect for casual players looking to dive into the whimsical world of idol stardom without the pressure of sums, formulas, or plot twists that'll make your head spin. If you've ever wanted a taste of what it's like to manage a sparkling squad of mythical hyper-energetic pop stars while being serenaded by earworms that'll stick around longer than your last relationship, then grab *Platinum Stars*! Just be prepared for the fact that managing your idols is more about emotional balance than mere rhythm accuracy. Don your headset, pick your favorite idol, and get ready to fulfill your dreams one adorable song at a time!

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