Ubisoft’s dance and rhythm series Just Dance has long been a source of family-friendly fun. Ubisoft revealed that Just Dance 2018 will include a new Kids’ Mode specifically tailored to younger kids. Kids’ Mode has its own kid-friendly interface, scoring, and dance moves to allow kids to dance and play the game successfully on their own, and with other kids.
Kids’ Mode was developed through collaboration with two child development experts: Martine Curtat-Cadet, choreography expert, and Cristina Do Carmo De Sousa Gomes, concept artist.
“Children aged between three and six quite often have difficulties reproducing fast and complex movements,” said Curtat-Cadet. “The steps we have developed in these choreographies are associated with intentions that correspond to action verbs like running, climbing, flying, catching. Inevitably the child will learn and will integrate the choreographies naturally and not by imitation. Additionally, dancing really helps children to acquire scholarly skills like writing, reading and art as well.”
Kids’ Mode will feature eight songs that have been specially choregraphed to promote healthy movement. They’re far easier than traditional Just Dance songs. They feature fun kid-friendly visuals, such as pirates, superheroes, and robots.
The scoring system for Kids’ Mode is more generous and positive, encouraging kids as they dance. The interface has been simplified with less text. Parents can select continuous and random play modes to let kids dance to songs back-to-back.
Finally, Just Dance 2018 will feature the hit song from Disney’s animated feature, Moana, “How Far I’ll Go.” More songs were announced earlier this year at E3, with even more songs announced during Gamescom. Artists include Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga, Shakira, Hyuna, Hatsune Miku, and Bebe Rexha.
Just Dance 2018 is coming to PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Nintendo Wii (!), Nintendo Wii U, and Nintendo Switch on October 26.
