Just Dance 2021 leans on a strong, contemporary soundtrack and playful choreography but introduces almost no new game modes, a choice that could make the experience feel repetitive for players who expected more changes from previous editions.
What’s new — and what isn’t
The eleventh main installment in the franchise highlights recent hits such as “Rain On Me” by Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande, “Say So” by Doja Cat and “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd. Those popular tracks give the game immediate appeal, especially for casual players and party settings.
However, the game retains the same menu style used since the 2019 edition and offers only a limited set of modes, which may disappoint longtime players seeking novelty beyond the updated playlist.
Available game modes
Ubisoft ships Just Dance 2021 with essentially three core modes, or four if the online multiplayer World Dance Floor is counted. The returning Kids Mode provides simplified choreography, bright backgrounds and kid-friendly songs.
The main Just Dance mode presents the classic experience: a library of about 40 songs that players can dance to. Some tracks include alternative choreographies, but those alternatives must be unlocked by meeting in-game conditions, such as achieving a target score on the standard routine or replaying the song.
Quick Play is a streamlined option that immediately sends the player to the prep screen for a random song, removing menu navigation and getting users dancing faster.
All modes are straightforward and entertaining, but the absence of formerly popular features — for example, Battle Mode from Just Dance 4 or the World Video Challenge from Just Dance 2017 — is notable.
Song selection and choreography
The soundtrack mixes recent pop hits with lesser-known tracks from different countries, and it is in the more obscure selections that the game often stands out. These songs tend to feature more inventive choreography and diverse stage designs, enhancing the fun factor.
Choreographies continue to span several difficulty levels. The easier routines typically accompany the biggest hits, while more challenging and “extreme” versions are available for players seeking higher difficulty and a greater workout.
The variety of styles and stage concepts helps maintain enjoyment across the tracklist. The review highlights examples such as “Kick It” by NCT 127 for creative staging and choreography.
Just Dance Unlimited extends the catalogue
Just Dance Unlimited, introduced with Just Dance 2017, remains available and offers a library of more than 600 songs through a subscription. All copies of games released since the service began include one month of Unlimited access for free.
The subscription bolsters the game’s longevity by allowing players to access songs from previous releases without swapping discs or titles, though some tracks are still absent from the service. Ubisoft continues to add new songs periodically.
Release and final assessment
Just Dance 2021 was released on November 12 for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, Nintendo Switch and Google Stadia. The game preserves the franchise’s strength as a family-friendly party title with a broadly appealing playlist and entertaining choreography.
Nevertheless, the limited number of game modes and the unchanged menu design across several editions may reduce its attractiveness for players seeking substantive changes. Despite a reported price increase compared with earlier editions, the title still promises hours of entertainment and can provide a lively way to burn calories after holiday feasts.
