For many, Dance Dance Revolution: Hottest Party is the first real DDR game to hit a Nintendo platform. Sure, there was the Mario flavored one for the GameCube, but many diehard DDR fans see that version as a watered down, casual taste of the true DDR experience. Well, the Wii's insane popularity has apparently warranted the release of a more traditional DDR game - this time with no Mario.
Classic Gameplay Meets the Innovative Wii
Ok, it's a Dance Dance Revolution game. If you've played one before, you know what to expect. Choose from a fairly robust list of songs (most remixed to a more upbeat techno version) and step on the corresponding arrows matching the beat of the song. Unlike the GameCube's Mario version, Wii's Hottest Party has upped the difficulty significantly to match the traditional DDR games of old. That's not to say the Wii version hasn't added anything new though, as you'll have to option to play with a variety of gimmicks (many of which originated with the Mario version) as well as being able to hit certain notes with your Wii remote. Personally, I always hated the gimmicks on the Mario version and continue to dislike them here. This goes double for the awkward Wii remote usage, so I've come to turn those options off from now on - but perhaps you'll find some enjoyment from them.
DDR is DDR
If you're a fan of the Dance Dance Revolution games, you'll likely be a fan of this one. The formula is still intact and works well. If you've never tried it before, it may be a good time to pick it up and see if it's your kind of game, because once you start, it's hard to stop. Pick up an extra dance mat (or 3) and you'll be rewarded with a pretty great party game most will enjoy.