About ITG

In The Groove (ITG) builds on the foundation of DDR's core gameplay. Dance Dance Revolution (DDR) conceptually is a very simple game. There is a platform with four arrows: up, down, left, and right.

ITG Platform

There are four stationary arrows at the top of the screen. There will be arrows that scroll up from the bottom of the screen.

ITG Screen

When the scrolling arrows overlap the stationary arrows, you then hit the corresponding arrow on the platform. And that's it! You have now learned the basics of DDR.

ITG with modifiers

In The Groove expands on DDR by offering a multitude of new options and modifiers to shake things up, including a large number of new speed modifiers, scroll modifiers that go well beyond DDR's Boost, Brake, and Wave, varied scroll perspectives, and much more. Additionally, new step types are added, such as Mines, which cause your dance gauge to drop if the relevant arrow is depressed at the time the mine crosses the arrow line. Fans of Pump It Up will also note that many of the harder step patterns will include hand plants or even quads, where the player must hit three or four panels at once.

ITG modifiers screen

DDR Freak has plenty of information for those who would like to learn more about ITG, or those who make it part of their lifestyle. To learn how to speak the language of ITG, consult the DDR Freak Dictionary. If you want help on how to improve, take a look at the Tips & Guides section. To hear a sampling of the music you'll find in DDR and ITG, tune in to DDR Freak Radio. Need to know where to find ITG? Search for arcades with ITG near you in our Machine Locations database, or shop for gear to help you groove at home.

Now that you know what ITG is, get out there and show us what you're made of! And when your legs begin to fail you, have a seat and come join us on the DDR Freak Forums.