Mixtape Review
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, PC
Release Date: May 21, 2026
Main Story Length: 4 hours
Developer: Beethoven & Dinosaur
Reviewed on PS5
Some games are designed to tell a story. Others are designed to bring back a feeling. Mixtape feels like a game built specifically for 90s kids — a nostalgia trip packed with memories, music, awkward coming-of-age moments, and the kind of energy that instantly takes you back.
From references to metal music, parties, and all the classic teenage chaos you’d expect from kids trying to figure out life, Mixtape captures that era in a way that feels genuine instead of forced. There are moments throughout where the game throws little reminders at you that make you stop and think, “Yeah… I remember those days.” More than once I found myself laughing, not because the jokes were trying too hard, but because they felt relatable and brought back memories I forgot I even had.
The soundtrack deserves serious praise. It isn’t just background noise — it feels like one of the main characters. Packed with recognizable songs and nostalgic vibes, the music constantly helps set the tone and carries emotional moments throughout the experience. Combined with the overall atmosphere, Mixtape absolutely nails its vibe.
Gameplay itself is fairly limited, and that’s probably where some players may bounce off. You are not getting a deep action experience or complicated mechanics here. But when gameplay moments do show up, they’re fun and fit naturally into the story being told. The game knows exactly what it wants to be and doesn’t overcomplicate things.
At only around 4 hours long, some people may hesitate, but considering the reasonable launch price — and the fact that it’s available on Game Pass — makes it feel like a fair package. Not every game needs to be a 70-hour open-world adventure for me to have a good time.
That said, Mixtape probably won’t hit the same for everyone. I could see newer generations not connecting with some of the references or themes as much. But if you grew up during that era, or even if you just appreciate a well-told coming-of-age story with incredible music and atmosphere, there’s a lot to love here.
The story is excellent. The nostalgia and soundtrack are top tier. And sometimes vibes alone can carry an experience farther than people expect.
