This type of video game requires quick reflexes, athleticism, and personal dance style. Using a floor pad that is tied into a monitor, players must react to the sequence of arrows displayed on the monitor. Gregory, a Shipley eighth grader, has been playing DDR for over a year and half. Even more impressive is that Gregory built his own game from wholesale parts he purchased.

According to the judge and witness Robert Mruczek of Twin Galaxies, the Official Electronic Scoreboard that documented Kantor’s progress, “Gregory played in five song sets, with each song lasting well over a minute. By the time the game is completed it’s like an accelerated aerobic workout for both the mind and body.” Greg had six complete attempts at the title, which means he completed each run without error and tallied the most number of winning points.

In DDR, the player steps on the arrow on the pad corresponding to the one indicated on the monitor. As one advances, the arrows are displayed more rapidly, leading to a thorough cardio-vascular workout as the player tries to replicate the pattern.
 
Monitor                                          Floor Pad

For more information on Gregory’s accomplishments go to http://www.twingalaxies.com/.

Posted January 23, 2005