Platform reviewed: Meta Quest 2
Also on: Meta Quest 3/3s
Price: $19.99
I never imagined myself stepping onto a virtual dance floor, but The New Salsa Academy quickly changed my mind. While I won't be winning any dance competitions anytime soon, I'm genuinely impressed by how the devs turned ballroom dancing into an enjoyable and surprisingly engaging gaming experience. With its unique instant feedback and laid back approach, I enjoyed my time with The New Salsa Academy—even if my rhythm still needs some work.
When the game first opens, I'm greeted by instructors Rodrigo Cortazar and Asya Sonina, who are thankfully real people rather than digital avatars. I need to choose between leading or following, which I appreciate that the game allows for both. At first, the instructors’ delivery felt a bit awkward—some of the dialogue and interactions seemed off, as though they were a bit nervous—but as the lessons progressed, they seemed to get more comfortable with the idea that they are there in a “virtual world” and their charm quickly won me over. Rodrigo and Asya's playful, relaxed approach made the learning experience comfortable. Learning salsa can be intimidating, but their teaching style feels supportive rather than overly strict.
Each lesson is broken down so that I learn the movements and then practice the movements. The game incorporates an AI partner that I dance with and through my actions, the game can determine where I make mistakes and where I did well and I’m given feedback instantly. This feature works well, most times, although occasionally the game gave me perfect scores when I can assure you they weren't perfect. Still, I appreciate how the pace slowed whenever I struggled, giving me the opportunity to learn at my own speed. This adaptive approach made learning salsa feel accessible and genuinely enjoyable.
The gamification comes into play with challenges, which become available after completing each set of lessons.. These challenges give me a chance to showcase my newfound salsa skills and earn scores based on how well—or how poorly—I perform. Then I can see how I rank compared to others on a leaderboard. Let’s just say I’m not going to compete professionally.
Final Grade: B+
I’m always looking for something new in the VR space and The New Salsa Academy filled this need perfectly. The instructors are encouraging and fun and for those that are looking for a way to show off their dancing or rhythm skills, there's definitely something in this game for you. The lessons are short (maybe a bit too short, as I would have liked to see more) but the challenge leaderboards add an element of replayability to the game.
Review code provided by Mighty PR