Mapping (also known as beatmapping) is a multi-sensory representation of music. Each rhythm game has its own unique set of rules, object designs, and mechanics. A skilled mapper learns how the gameplay works and comes up with choreography to express the music within these game parameters. Some games’ mechanics are better at producing certain types of movements than others, and these considerations ultimately go into a mapper’s interpretation of the song.

Maps are what we call the levels you play along to the music in each rhythm game. The vast majority of maps are hand-crafted—not auto-generated. There is a lot of thought and deliberation that goes into a quality map. Much like sheet music, objects in levels are arranged into patterns that direct the body as the mapper intends. The final arrangement is the artistic representation of the music as subjectively experienced by the mapper. Because everyone is built differently and has a unique movement style, you may find yourself enjoying the expressions of those mappers whose movement styles most closely resemble your own.

You can currently find official content we’ve created in Synth Riders, Supernatural, and BoomBox.

Note: we are not formally affiliated with any of the developers of these games.

Our team has experience in working closely with several developers in testing game prototypes and early access builds. With this comes significant learning through trial and error as to common issues encountered in the development and optimization of gameplay. We can systematically test games to provide specific feedback based on principles of body movement and flow which tend to be common across all rhythm game experiences. We can help you avoid designs that would give players a bad first impression—which could doom your game no matter how much effort you’ve put into it.

Separate and apart from your game, you also need efficient and functional map editing software. However, your map editor should also feel like a game. Having become proficient with multiple map editors, our team is optimally positioned to ensure your map editor creates a seamless workflow that maximizes the time mappers can spend thinking creatively, and minimizes the time spent on tedious level-building mechanics.

Finally, because we understand very well principles of flow, momentum, rhythm, and body movement, and particularly if you have involved us in the development of your game and map editor, we can help you create OST content that will be well-received by your target audience. Feel free to check out some testimonials here from real people as to content we have created.

The earlier you get us involved, the better. No need to reinvent the wheel. Let us help you avoid common pitfalls and obstacles encountered in the development of rhythm games.