Is "Dynamite" by BTS on Just Dance Unlimited?
No, as of February 2023, the massively popular BTS track "Dynamite" is still not available on the Just Dance Unlimited streaming service or base game.
But with BTS cementing themselves as global gaming stars, many fans speculate that "Dynamite" and other hit songs could make their Just Dance debut soon.
The Growth of K-Pop in Music Video Games
Over the last decade, Korean pop music has rapidly expanded from a national to global phenomenon – turning groups like BTS into international celebrities. Riding on their success, K-pop is also permeating more sectors of the entertainment industry including video games.
K-Pop Songs in Major Music Game Franchises
| Game | K-Pop Songs | Notable Artists |
|---|---|---|
| Just Dance | 30+ | BTS, BLACKPINK |
| Dance Central | 15+ | BTS, 2NE1 |
| Audition Online | 50+ | BigBang, 2NE1 |
As early as 2013, PSY‘s viral "Gangnam Style" choreo arrived as DLC for Just Dance 2014. But publisher Ubisoft has accelerated K-pop representation in recent years – even recruiting BTS themselves to perform "Boy With Luv" in a Just Dance promo.
This mirrors the audience demand as Just Dance 2023 featuring BTS scored the franchise‘s biggest digital launch in history. Their signature flashy routines and quirky concepts are a natural fit for rhythm games‘ energetic vibe.
However securing hits from top K-pop idols involves complex business negotiations…
The Challenges of Licensing K-Pop Songs
| Challenge | Impact |
|---|---|
| Expensive licensing/publishing deals | Top artists can demand big fees – squeezing margins for developers |
| Strict creative control and rights management | Labels tightly govern how their talent‘s brand is used – limiting promotional flexibility |
| Frequent comebacks and touring schedules | New material takes priority making it hard to commit artists to long game development cycles |
"These factors make it more complex to sign on major K-pop acts," says Lauren Kim, a gaming industry analyst. "It limits how many songs publishers can afford per game. But they see it as a valuable investment in appealing to younger, more diverse audiences."
So could the BTS label BigHit get on board with bringing "Dynamite" and other tracks to Just Dance Unlimited?
"Dynamite" Fever – Analyzing the Song‘s Appeal
- Released in 2020, "Dynamite" became BTS‘ first #1 single on the Billboard Hot 100
- The disco-pop anthem exemplifies the band‘s signature slick choreography and eye-catching fashion
- The vibrant retro-inspired music video has over 1.4 billion YouTube views – one of the most in K-pop history
- It‘s upbeat sound and vibrant aesthetics are a natural fit for the energy of dancing games
- Fans have already unofficially brought the "Dynamite" choreography into Just Dance via custom mods
"BTS has mastered the art of creating danceable earworm singles," shares avid Just Dance player Jay Park. "Given its continued popularity across demographics, ‘Dynamite‘ feels like an obvious slam dunk inclusion down the road."
What are the Chances for Just Dance 2024?
So could "Dynamite" finally get its moment on Just Dance 2024 or Unlimited? K-pop observers and dance enthusiasts seem optimistic.
"Dynamite‘ would be a blockbuster addition drawing in more fans," explains K-Pop Vibe writer Leah Choi. "And BigHit likely sees the promotional value in letting their talent feature in such a massively popular casual game."
Of course only time will tell if Ubisoft and BigHit reach a licensing deal. But BTS‘s music clearly has that signature mix of broad appeal and dynamic dance moves perfectly catered to Just Dance‘s vibe. Don‘t be shocked if "Dynamite" kicks down the doors soon and brings millions more players to their feet!
