Genre: Music / Karaoke
Developer: iNiS
Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
Year: 2008
Platform: Xbox 360
Lips is a karaoke music game developed by iNiS and published by Microsoft Game Studios, released for Xbox 360 in 2008. Designed to compete in the popular music game genre, Lips utilizes wireless motion-sensitive microphones, allowing players to sing along to a diverse library of licensed songs with pitch detection and vocal effects.
The game features a tracklist spanning multiple genres and decades, providing both solo and multiplayer karaoke experiences. Players can perform in single-player mode, compete head-to-head in local multiplayer, or participate in cooperative duet modes. The gameplay incorporates visual cues for lyrics and pitch, as well as scoring based on vocal accuracy and timing.
Lips supports up to four players simultaneously using the wireless microphones and offers features such as voice effects, customizable avatars, and the ability to download additional songs via Xbox Live Marketplace. The wireless microphone design aims to enhance player freedom and reduce cable clutter compared to traditional wired peripherals.
Critically, Lips received generally positive reviews, praised for its accessible gameplay, solid song selection, and innovative wireless microphones. On Metacritic, the Xbox 360 version holds an average score in the low 70s. Some criticism was directed toward the game’s limited online features and occasional scoring inconsistencies.
