Status:
Complete and Play Tested
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DJ Hero 2 (Xbox 360) Review
DJ Hero 2, released in 2010, is the follow-up to the surprisingly successful DJ Hero. This rhythm game turns players into virtual DJs using a special turntable controller, mixing and scratching tracks from a curated playlist of hip-hop, pop, dance, and electronic music. DJ Hero 2 expands on its predecessor with new modes, better multiplayer, more freestyle elements, and a broader, more polished tracklist.
Gameplay & Mechanics
| Feature | Description | Verdict |
|---|
| Turntable Controller | Players use a proprietary turntable to scratch, tap buttons, and crossfade between two tracks. | Unique and tactile, with a satisfying learning curve. |
| Gameplay Mechanics | Hit notes, scratch vinyl, and crossfade in time with the music. Introduces freestyle scratching, sample triggers, and crossfader effects. | More control and creativity than the first game. |
| Freestyle Sections | Allows player-created scratches, samples, and crossfades. | Adds welcomed creative depth for advanced players. |
| DJ Battles | Head-to-head competitive mode with player-specific mixes. | Intense and well-designed, ideal for local multiplayer. |
DJ Hero 2 manages to keep the core mechanics intuitive while increasing the freedom and skill ceiling, making it far more than a button-matching experience.
Music & Soundtrack
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Number of Tracks: Over 80 brand-new mashups and remixes.
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Genres: EDM, pop, hip-hop, rock, funk.
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Artists Featured: Deadmau5, Daft Punk, Lady Gaga, Kanye West, The Chemical Brothers, Tiësto, Eminem, and more.
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Custom Mixes: Most songs are expertly blended into unique mashups by professional DJs and producers.
The soundtrack is the star of the show, filled with expertly crafted mixes that are as fun to listen to as they are to play. Every mix feels curated with care, giving the game a high-energy, club-like atmosphere.
Modes & Features
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Empire Mode: Career-style progression where players rise from unknown to superstar DJ.
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Quickplay & Setlists: Create custom setlists and jump into any mix.
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Party Play: Drop-in/drop-out feature with microphone support for singing.
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Multiplayer: Offline and online competitive and cooperative modes, including DJ battles and streak competitions.
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Mic Integration: Supports vocals for friends or party play, similar to Guitar Hero World Tour.
The addition of structured modes and multiplayer refinement makes DJ Hero 2 feel like a complete package, not just a novelty.
Visuals & Presentation
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Stylized Visuals: High-energy, nightclub-inspired visuals with flashy backdrops and reactive lighting.
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DJ Avatars: Real DJs like Deadmau5 are playable, with customizable avatars and stages.
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UI: Clean, neon-colored note highways that are easy to read even with fast tempos.
While not graphically groundbreaking, the games style and energy suit the genre perfectly, creating a slick, modern club vibe.
Sound & Performance
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Sound Quality: Excellent. Audio mixing and production is top-notch.
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Controller Response: Tight and accurate, especially with the updated scratch/fade sensitivity.
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Loading Times: Quick and unobtrusive.
Everything from track transitions to turntable response is crisp and professional, providing a smooth experience throughout.
Pros & Cons
Pros
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Exceptional, diverse soundtrack with unique mashups
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Improved freestyle controls and customization
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Deep, competitive multiplayer with DJ battles
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More immersive and fleshed-out career mode
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Excellent party game for rhythm fans
Cons
Requires proprietary turntable controller (no standard controller option)
Less appealing to players uninterested in club/EDM/hip-hop genres
Minor on-screen clutter during intense segments
Vocals are underused and feel tacked-on
Final Verdict
DJ Hero 2 builds beautifully on the foundation of the original, offering deeper gameplay, more polish, and a better selection of tracks. Its a rhythm game that stands apart thanks to its unique turntable controller and remix-centric music. Whether you're a casual party player or a rhythm game veteran, DJ Hero 2 is one of the most stylish and satisfying music games ever made.
Score: 8.5 / 10 A bold, stylish, and musically rich rhythm game that perfects the formula of its predecessor. One of the most underrated entries in the genre.
