LOS ANGELES — February 4, 2026 — Acclaim, the iconic publisher that helped define a generation, and developer Ridiculous Games today announced that the first playable demo of their upcoming rhythm-based dungeon crawler, GRIDbeat!, is now available to download on Steam ahead of Steam Next Fest: February 2026 Edition. A Nintendo Switch version of the demo will be available on the Switch eShop later this month.
Rhythm game fans looking to experience this early slice of GRIDbeat! can download the demo here.
In GRIDbeat!, you assume the role of a hacker who just breached Knoss.OS, the planet’s most heavily fortified corporate network, and made off with a payload of priceless data. Now trapped within the sprawling digital labyrinth of the Mainframe, every keystroke is a rhythm, every move a measure in a desperate dance for survival. Outmaneuver relentless security protocols, battle brutal military simulations, and fend off insidious, corrupting viral code… all programmed with one directive: to delete you forever.
The Steam demo allows players to get into the rhythm of GRIDbeat’s pulse-pounding gameplay. Players can choose from one of nine hackers and test their skills and reflexes as they infiltrate 13 stages, including three Training Sim stages, six main campaign levels, and, for those really wanting to show off their hacking prowess, four unlockable challenge levels.
With three difficulty modes to choose from, this demo should serve as the perfect tool to help players hone their hacking skills ahead of delving into Knoss.OS in the full game when it launches this spring.
“Releasing the GRIDbeat! demo feels like reaching the final checkpoint before the finish line,” said Jaime Bencia, Senior Producer at Ridiculous Games. “This moment is a direct result of three years of passion, creativity, and relentless hard work from the incredible Ridiculous Games development team. After building this world around rhythm, movement, and momentum, we’re beyond excited to finally let players experience the Grid for themselves and grateful to our partners at Acclaim for their support in helping us reach this milestone.”
Key Features
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Beat-Based Dungeon Crawling – In GRIDbeat!, movement, combat, and interaction all happen on the beat. Every level is a tactical challenge where rhythm equals survival.
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Pulse-Pounding Maze Exploration – As you navigate the data labyrinths, keep an eye out for all manner of hazards, including Server Formats that can wipe a level clean.
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Evolving Abilities & Power-Ups – Install powerful software tools to help you overcome system threats, uncover secrets, and solve challenges.
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Cyber.Mind Boss Battles – Defeat powerful AI gatekeepers in intense beat-based battles to continue your journey and reach the final exit port out of the Mainframe.
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Step into the Rhythm! – GRIDbeat!’s electrifying soundtrack pulls you into the action, where every move, ability, and attack pulses to the beat. Sync your gameplay with the music and let the soundtrack guide your every step through the Grid!
GRIDbeat! is primed to surge onto Nintendo Switch and Steam in Q1 2026. Be sure to wishlist your copy today.
About Ridiculous Games
Ridiculous Games (formerly Digital Funk Machine and Hijinx Games) is an interactive developer founded in 2017 by industry veterans with over 20+ years experience. Located in Orange County, California, the team has worked on nearly every conceivable platform over the last two decades.
About Acclaim:
Originally founded in 1987, Acclaim established itself as a leading global developer, publisher, and mass marketer, bringing beloved franchises such as Mortal Kombat, Turok, and NBA Jam into homes worldwide. Today, Acclaim carries its legacy forward with an unwavering commitment to supporting talented indie developers and delivering high-quality, premium indie games to a global audience. Acclaim’s modern revival stands as a testament to the strength and enduring appeal of its iconic brand.
