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The Best DDR Dance Pads

When "Dance Dance Revolution" hit Japanese arcades, it became a smash largely because of its step pad control system. The following year, "DDR" moved to North America and Europe on its way to being a worldwide phenomenon. The console version of "DDR" allows players the same experience at home, by using a dance pad specifically designed for home use. Choosing the best dance pad often comes down the player preference and skill.

Material
- Finding the "best" dance pad for "Dance Dance Revolution" generally comes down to two things: material and price. The two are in many ways related. In terms of material, soft mats, once which can be rolled or folded, can also be less sensitive or become bent. The soft mats can also be hazardous by either have a slippery surface or sliding on the floor. Metal mats are more expensive, but the heaviness of the pad keeps it anchored to the floor, won't folded and is more durable than a soft pad. Of course, the sacrifice of a metal pad is price and less portability.
Price
- Higher quality mats will cost more. A soft dance pad, like that which comes standard with the game, can be as low as $15 while higher-end "tournament" metal dance pads can cost upwards of $300. Consider the amount of use the game gets when thinking about purchasing a dance pad and whether the investment is worth the cost. If you like the game but rarely play, a champion pad might not be for you.
Metal Dance Pads
- The best of the high-end dance pads include the "DDR Champion Arcade Metal Dance Pad," which is essentially the same pad as used in the arcade, complete with a handle in the front and a colorful design. Prices vary according to game system with PlayStation 2, Xbox, PC and GameCube versions retailing for less than PlayStation 3 and Wii pads. The Champion Arcade pad isn't compatible with the Xbox 360. Meanwhile the "DDR Energy Arcade Dance Pad" is compatible with all home versions of the game (including one version for PS2, Xbox, PC and GameCube, while all other systems require a different pad).
Soft Dance Pads
- The selection of soft "DDR" dance pads is much wider in visual design and includes wireless options. The "DDR Energy Wireless Super Deluxe" is a wireless soft pad noted for being more sensitive than most roll up pads. However, the design of the pad is a little uninteresting (it looks like a target) and it's not compatible with the Xbox 360. The "DDR Ultra Sensitive Master Non-Slip Dance Pad" is a high-contrast, well-balanced pad for PS3 and PC users that want a good quality soft pad for less than $50. No non-standard soft dance pads are available for the Xbox 360.

Video Game Accessories