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Just Dance 2017
Just Dance 2017
Just Dance 2017
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Just Dance 2017
Developers
PublisherUbisoft
SeriesJust Dance
EngineUbiArt Framework
Platforms
ReleaseXbox 360, Xbox One, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Wii, Wii U, Windows
  • NA: October 25, 2016
  • PAL: October 27, 2016
  • UK: October 28, 2016
Nintendo Switch
  • WW: March 3, 2017
GenreRhythm
ModesSingle-player, multiplayer

Just Dance 2017 is a 2016 dance-based rhythm game developed and published by Ubisoft. It was unveiled on June 13, 2016, during its E3 press conference as the eighth main installment of the series,[1] and was released in October 2016 for PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Wii, Wii U, and Windows; and on March 3, 2017, for Nintendo Switch. The game was the only title of the series to be released on Windows, and was released as a launch title for Nintendo Switch.

Gameplay

[edit]
Further information: Gameplay of the Just Dance series

As in previous installments, players must mimic the routine of an on-screen dancer to a chosen song, scoring points based on their accuracy. For input, the game supports either the respective motion controller system for a particular console platform (Wii Remotes on Wii and Wii U, PlayStation Move on PlayStation 3, PlayStation Camera on PlayStation 4, Kinect on Xbox 360 and One and Joy-Con on Nintendo Switch), or a smartphone with the game's companion mobile app.[2] For the PC version, a gamepad and a keyboard can also be used for menu navigation. The Chinese version of the game removes online features, such as Just Dance Unlimited and the World Dance Floor.

The "Dance Party" mode has been renamed to the "Just Dance" mode, players can now have the ability to search for a song using the menu. The "Superstar" rank has been added, in which it's achievable at 11,000 points. A new "Just Dance Machine" mode was added on current-generation console and PC versions, in which players must dance through routines of different styles to help recharge an alien spaceship, using a unique scoring mechanic which shows green if successfully or red if messing up.[2][3][4] Each session contains five routines, with "Cosmic Rounds" popping up randomly. The story of this mode follows two aliens that are dancing on their ship. All of a sudden, their battery is running low. To recharge its battery, the aliens travelled to Earth and abduct human dancers known as "coaches" to recharge its battery by dancing. In the ending, the battery was charged and the aliens leave Earth as they keep dancing. But unfortunately, their battery is running low once again.

The game modes include Dance Quests, Sweat (workout and playlist modes), Just Dance TV, World Dance Floor, Beat the Boss, Spotlight Players, Happy Hours, and Tournaments.

In Beat the Boss, players would need to get a target amount of stars across one to three song(s) to defeat the boss. In Spotlight Players, players would try to beat a player from the "World Video Challenge" mode to earn a share of the pot of Mojo coins. Happy Hours now appear daily instead of weekly, and feature songs from the Just Dance Unlimited service. In Tournaments, players compete with each other for the top combined score across three songs in daily tournaments and eight songs in weekly tournaments.

World Dance Floor mode has been revamped in the Wii U, Switch, PS4, and Xbox One versions of the game, with new features, such as cross-platform between all versions of the game besides PC. Since the Wii, PS3, and Xbox 360 versions are based on Just Dance 2015, all of the features from the game are retained, with the "Community Remix" feature now in a full screen format as akin to the Wii U, Switch, PS4, Xbox One, and PC versions, as well as the Just Dance Unlimited subscription service for versions of the game on current-generation consoles and PC, with additional content and playlist features.[2] The game's companion app was also updated to become "a hub for players' activities", with photo editing features and Just Dance TV content alongside the app's main purpose as a motion controller.[2] The Wii U exclusive "Party Master" mode was removed. Furthermore, the Wii U version does not have the ability to apply effects for "Autodance" videos, just like in previous entries.

All online services of the game were discontinued for the Wii, PS3, and Xbox 360 versions on November 19, 2018,[5] followed by all other platforms on July 3, 2023.[6]

Soundtrack

[edit]

The following songs appear on Just Dance 2017:

Song Artist Year
"All About Us" Jordan Fisher 2016
"Bailar" Deorro featuring Elvis Crespo 2016
"Bang" Anitta 2015
"Bonbon" Era Istrefi 2015
"Cake by the Ocean" DNCE 2015
"Can't Feel My Face" The Weeknd 2015
"Carnaval Boom" Latino Sunset 2016
"Cheap Thrills" Sia featuring Sean Paul 2016
"Chiwawa"[a] Wanko Ni Mero Mero 2015
"Cola Song" Inna featuring J Balvin 2014
"Daddy"[b] Psy featuring CL of 2NE1 2015
"Don't Stop Me Now" Queen 1979
"Don't Wanna Know" Maroon 5 2016
"Dragostea Din Tei" O-Zone 2003
"El Tiki" Maluma 2015
"Ghost In the Keys" Halloween Thrills 2016
"Groove" Jack & Jack 2014
"Hips Don't Lie" Shakira featuring Wyclef Jean 2006
"I Love Rock 'n Roll" Fast Forward Highway (as made famous by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts) 1982
"Karaoke Forever - Future Underworld Mix"[c][d] Alan Tam 1990
"Into You" Ariana Grande 2016
"La Bicicleta" Carlos Vives and Shakira 2016
"Last Christmas"[e] Santa Clones (as made famous by Wham!) 1984
"Lean On" Major Lazer featuring MØ and DJ Snake 2015
"Leg Song"[f][d] Lulu 2016
"Leila" Cheb Salama 2016
"Like I Would"[e] Zayn 2016
"Little Swing" AronChupa featuring Little Sis Nora 2016
"Oishii Oishii" Wanko Ni Mero Mero 2016
"PoPiPo" Hatsune Miku[g] 2007
"RADICAL" Dyro and Dannic 2014
"Run The Night"[h] Gigi Rowe 2016
"Scream & Shout" will.i.am featuring Britney Spears 2012
"September" Equinox Stars (as made famous by Earth, Wind & Fire) 1978
"Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" Beyoncé 2008
"Sorry"[i] Justin Bieber 2015
"Te Dominar"[h] Daya Luz 2016
"Tico-Tico no Fubá" The Frankie Bostello Orchestra (as made famous by Zequinha de Abreu) 1917
"Titanium" David Guetta featuring Sia 2011
"Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)"[j] Silentó 2015
"What Is Love" Ultraclub 90 (as made famous by Haddaway) 1993
"Wherever I Go" OneRepublic 2016
"William Tell Overture"[k] Rossini 1829
"Worth It" Fifth Harmony featuring Kid Ink 2015
  1. ^ Previously appeared in Just Dance 2016; only available on the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Wii versions of the game.
  2. ^ Not available in the Chinese version of the game.
  3. ^ Also known as "Qia La Yong Yuan OK - Future Underworld Mix"
  4. ^ a b Only available in the Chinese version of the game.
  5. ^ a b Exclusive to Just Dance Unlimited on the Nintendo Switch version of the game.
  6. ^ Also known as "Tui Zhi Ge".
  7. ^ Composed by LamazeP.
  8. ^ a b Added to the Chinese version of the game via an update patch.
  9. ^ Also available on the old/Wii U demo version of the game.
  10. ^ Also available on the demo version of the game.
  11. ^ Previously appeared in Just Dance 2016; available on the Nintendo Switch version of the game and as an unlockable song via Ubisoft Connect on other platforms, except for the Wii version.

Note: "In the Hall of the Pixel King" by Dancing Bros. (based on "In the Hall of the Mountain King", written by Edvard Grieg, and "Ode to Joy", written by Ludwig van Beethoven) and "Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polkadot Bikini" by Brian Hyland (covered by The Sunlight Shakers) were planned to appear in the game, but they were scrapped for unknown reasons. They were later brought back to Just Dance 2018.

Just Dance Unlimited

[edit]

Just Dance Unlimited is a subscription-based service for accessing a streaming library of songs from previous Just Dance games, and new songs that are exclusive to the service. A three-month subscription to Just Dance Unlimited was included as part of a higher-priced version of the game, also known as the "Gold Edition". The PAL version of the game included three months of Just Dance Unlimited, just like the Gold Edition. All exclusive tracks were also playable on the Unlimited mode of 2016. The 2017 game supported Just Dance Unlimited on eighth-generation consoles, on PC, and on Nintendo Switch until July 3, 2023.[7] This feature is not available in the Chinese version of the game.

Songs exclusive to Just Dance Unlimited include:

Song Artist Year Release date
"Let Me Love You"[a] DJ Snake featuring Justin Bieber 2016 October 25, 2016
"Youth" Troye Sivan 2015 October 25, 2016
"Imya 505"[b] Vremya i Steklo 2015 October 25, 2016
"Ona Tańczy Dla Mnie"[c] Weekend 2012 October 25, 2016
"Je Sais Pas Danser"[d] Natoo 2016 October 25, 2016 (France)
February 23, 2017 (Worldwide)
"The Greatest" Sia 2016 November 25, 2016
"Juju on That Beat (TZ Anthem)" Zay Hilfigerrr and Zayion McCall 2016 December 21, 2016
"Chiwawa" (Alternate - Barbie Version)[e] Wanko Ni Mero Mero 2015 January 26, 2017
"Don't Worry" Madcon featuring Ray Dalton 2015 January 26, 2017
"Me Too" Meghan Trainor 2016 February 23, 2017
"How Deep Is Your Love"[f] Calvin Harris and Disciples 2015 March 3, 2017 (Nintendo Switch)
June 22, 2017 (PC, Xbox One, Wii U, PS4)
"HandClap" Fitz and the Tantrums 2016 March 23, 2017 (Classic)
August 30, 2017 (Alternate)
"Don't Let Me Down" The Chainsmokers featuring Daya 2016 April 20, 2017
"Ain't My Fault" Zara Larsson 2016 May 30, 2017
"Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" (Alternate) Wham! 1984 July 20, 2017
  1. ^ Used to be free if you connected a Ubisoft Connect account to the game, but has since become a Just Dance Unlimited exclusive.
  2. ^ Available free in Russia.
  3. ^ Available free in Poland.
  4. ^ Available free in France.
  5. ^ Available free in all supported regions.
  6. ^ Available free on the Nintendo Switch version of the game. It's also available as an exclusive song on other platforms.

Note: The Alternate routines available via Just Dance Unlimited are tie-ins with various franchises, with "Chiwawa" being a tie-in with Barbie for the movie Barbie: Video Game Hero and "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" being a tie-in with The Emoji Movie, which features the Just Dance Now app in a scene.

Reception

[edit]

Steve Hannley of Hardcore Gamer thought that although Ubisoft had defied his prediction that Just Dance Unlimited would be the future of the franchise instead of physical releases, they had put a larger effort into the on-disc content of 2017 than 2016 (which he described as being a "last minute afterthought" to introduce Unlimited). The Just Dance Machine mode was considered to be "pointless" due to being a basic concept driven by its presentation, but is "a concept that's never been done before in rhythm games and an example of the innovation the series needs to warrant another physical release". Hannley also praised the higher quality of the game's soundtrack, including more recent hit music, fewer "joke" songs, and surfacing Gigi Rowe's "impressive" debut single "Run the Night". In conclusion, Hannley continued to assert that Ubisoft should focus more on providing more immediate access to recent music rather than requiring players to wait for the next annual physical release, but that Just Dance 2017 was "thankfully a marked improvement over its predecessor."[4]

Awards

[edit]

The game won the award for "Favorite Video Game" at the 2017 Kids' Choice Awards,[8] and was nominated for "Best Family/Social Game" at the Titanium Awards.[9]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Just Dance 2017

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Just Dance 2017 is a 2016 dance rhythm developed and published by as the eighth main installment in the Just Dance series. It features over 40 licensed tracks from artists across pop, hip-hop, and other genres, with players scoring points by mimicking on-screen choreography using console motion controllers or a free companion smartphone app that supports up to six simultaneous participants. The game launched on October 25, , for , , , , , , and Windows PC, followed by a port on March 3, 2017, as a launch title for the console. Just Dance 2017 introduced several new gameplay modes to enhance variety and replayability. Key additions include Just Dance Machine, a freestyle mode blending dance styles like flamenco, ballet, and can-can; Sweat Mode, which tracks calories burned and offers fitness-oriented playlists; and Dance Quest, a campaign-style challenge where players progress through quests against AI opponents. The game also debuted Just Dance Unlimited, a subscription service providing access to over 200 additional songs, including previous Just Dance titles, with ongoing content updates post-launch. These elements built on the series' core party-focused mechanics, emphasizing multiplayer fun and accessibility without requiring dedicated peripherals. The soundtrack comprises 40 songs, curated for broad appeal with contemporary hits and select classics, such as "Sorry" by , "Cheap Thrills" (feat. ) by Sia, "Cake by the Ocean" by , "Lean On" (feat. & ) by , and "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" by . Each routine features unique visual styles and avatars, often with thematic costumes and backgrounds tailored to the music. A full list includes tracks like "All About That Bass" by , "Bang" by Anitta, "Don't Stop Me Now" by Queen, and "Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)" by , ensuring diverse tempos and difficulties for casual and competitive play. Upon release, Just Dance 2017 received mixed or average reviews, praised for its energetic tracks and social features but critiqued for repetitive gameplay and occasional tracking inaccuracies. On , it holds scores ranging from 70 to 75 across platforms, with outlets highlighting its family-friendly appeal and the innovative app integration as strengths. The title contributed to the series' commercial success, reinforcing Ubisoft's position in the market through annual iterations and expanded digital content.

Development

Announcement and reveal

Just Dance 2017 was officially announced on June 13, 2016, during Ubisoft's press conference at the in . The reveal opened the event with a live dance performance to Queen's "," setting an energetic tone before host introduced the title. The first trailer, premiered at the conference, highlighted the game's core appeal with vibrant choreography and a selection of tracks, including routines for "Cheap Thrills" by Sia featuring and "Can't Stop the Feeling!" by . Additional songs showcased in the announcement included "Sorry" by and "Lean On" by featuring and , emphasizing the mix of contemporary hits. The trailer also teased new features like Just Dance Unlimited, a subscription service providing access to over 200 additional songs. Preceding the reveal, ran teaser campaigns on social media and its website starting in June 2016, building anticipation with cryptic hints and silhouettes of dancers. Initial platform confirmations included availability on , , , , and , with later additions for PC (digital download) and (now known as ).

Production process

The production of Just Dance 2017 was primarily handled by Ubisoft's and studios. These teams collaborated to build upon the engine established in , focusing on enhancing the core rhythm and dance mechanics for a multi-platform release. Development commenced in early 2016 and extended over approximately nine months, culminating in the game's announcement at on June 13, 2016, and its launch in October. The process involved iterative refinements to support seventh-generation consoles like the , , and . The team also had to adapt choreography and technical elements for diverse platforms, including ensuring seamless compatibility with peripherals like Microsoft's Kinect and the PlayStation Camera.

Gameplay

Core mechanics

Just Dance 2017 employs motion controls to track player movements during dance routines, supporting camera-based systems such as Microsoft's Kinect for Xbox platforms and the PlayStation Camera for PlayStation consoles, which capture full-body gestures without requiring additional peripherals. Alternatively, players can use the free Just Dance Controller app on smartphones connected via Wi-Fi, turning the device into a motion input tool that detects tilts, shakes, and swipes to simulate dance actions, making the game accessible without dedicated hardware. Console-specific controllers, like Wii Remote or Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons, also provide arm-tracking functionality for basic pose recognition. The scoring system awards points based on the player's accuracy in replicating choreographed poses, timing synchronization with the music beat, and overall movement precision, with feedback provided in real-time through on-screen ratings such as "X," "Good," "Super," or "Perfect" for each move. A maximum score of 13,333 points per routine is achievable by earning "Perfect" ratings (5 points each) on all scored moves, with the total being the sum of points from each gesture. Multipliers enhance scores for achieving full combos without errors or consecutive high ratings, while "Gold Moves"—exaggerated poses highlighted in gold—offer bonus points when executed correctly, adding strategic depth to performances. Each dance routine in Just Dance 2017 lasts approximately 2 to 3 minutes, aligning with the edited length of the featured song, and consists of choreographed sequences of 50 to 100 distinct movements designed to match the track's rhythm and style. On-screen pictograms—silhouetted icons scrolling from right to left—guide players by previewing upcoming poses in advance, displaying the dancer's avatar performing the move in real-time above the coach line for visual reference. These routines vary in complexity, incorporating elements like arm waves, hip sways, and footwork, with the game emphasizing fun over strict replication to suit casual play. Customization allows players to create and personalize avatars using progress from Sweat Mode, a fitness-oriented feature that tracks calories burned and workout intensity to unlock items such as themed stickers, clothing accessories, and background skins for the profile interface. Avatars are modeled after in-game dancers and can be mixed and matched with earned , providing a sense of progression and without affecting core . Unlockables are obtained through accumulated Mojo points from high scores and mode completions, enabling decorative enhancements like vibrant stickers and scenic backgrounds to adorn the player's digital dancer. The game supports upper-body focused play on arm-tracking controllers, allowing seated participation in routines without lower-body requirements, though not specifically adapted for . Simplified scoring thresholds in easier routines reduce the precision required for , while Sweat Mode offers adjustable tracking for fitness goals without competitive pressure. Select songs feature optional lower-difficulty variants, enabling players to scale challenges gradually and build confidence through guided, less demanding .

Available modes

Just Dance 2017 offers several gameplay modes tailored to different player experiences, ranging from individual practice to group competitions and online interactions. These modes build on the core motion-tracking , allowing players to engage with the game's routines in varied ways across supported platforms. The mode provides the standard single-player experience, where individuals perform full routines to tracks from the game's . Players receive real-time scoring based on accuracy, timing, and effort, with progress tracked through stars earned per song and overall player profiles that unlock rewards and customization options. This mode emphasizes personal improvement and is ideal for newcomers to practice choreography without competitive pressure. Sweat Mode shifts the focus to fitness, transforming the game into a workout tool by integrating routines into customizable playlists. It estimates calories burned and monitors workout intensity based on player performance, encouraging sustained across multiple songs. Users can select difficulty levels and track session goals, making it suitable for health-conscious players seeking a rhythmic exercise alternative. In standard multiplayer, up to six players can join via the app, with one player selecting for group play, aggregating scores without individual elimination and fostering collaborative sessions for up to four players on compatible systems. , Triplet, and modes support synchronized dancing for two, three, or four players, respectively, on platforms that allow multiple simultaneous inputs such as , PlayStation Camera, or . These routines feature coordinated choreography where participants mirror or complement each other's movements to achieve collective high scores, enhancing social interaction through shared performance. Availability depends on the hardware, with limited to eighth-generation consoles and PC. Just Dance Machine is a story-driven freestyle mode exclusive to eighth-generation consoles and PC, where players progress through sessions blending various dance styles such as , , and in short, unique challenges. Dance Quest is a campaign-style mode featuring tournament-like challenges where players compete against AI opponents across playlists to achieve top rankings and complete quests, available on multiple difficulty levels. Just Dance TV provides a continuous, randomized selection of songs and routines, simulating a TV channel experience for non-stop dancing without manual selection. World Dance Floor is an online community feature connecting players globally for leaderboards, themed events, and custom challenges, allowing competition in real-time or asynchronously against others' scores. However, Ubisoft discontinued online services for Just Dance 2017, including World Dance Floor, on July 3, 2023, for eighth-generation platforms, rendering the mode inaccessible thereafter. Additional modes include Beat the Boss (rival battles against themed opponents), Spotlight Players (highlighting top performances), and Happy Hours (time-limited events with bonuses), enhancing variety in solo and multiplayer play.

Soundtrack

Main track list

The main track list of Just Dance 2017 comprises 40 songs, blending pop, hip-hop, Latin, and classic hits from the 1970s to the mid-2010s, as revealed by in 2016. This diverse selection emphasizes global appeal, with contributions from international artists and covers of iconic tracks to accommodate licensing. The full base soundtrack is as follows:
SongArtist
All About Us
Bailar ft.
BangAnitta
Bonbon
Cake by the Ocean
Can't Feel My Face
Carnaval BoomLatino Sunset
Cheap ThrillsSia ft.
Cola Song ft.
DADDY ft. CL of
Don't Stop Me NowQueen
Don't Wanna Know
Dragostea Din Tei
El Tiki
Ghost in the KeysHalloween Thrills
Groove
Hips Don't Lie ft.
I Love Rock 'N' RollFast Forward Highway
Into You
La Bicicleta &
Last ChristmasSanta Clones
Lean On ft. MØ &
LeilaCheb Salama
Let Me Love You ft.
Like I WouldZayn
Little SwingAronChupa ft. Little Sis Nora
Oishii OishiiWanko Ni Mero Mero
PoPiPo
RADICALDyro & Dannic
Run the NightGigi Rowe
Scream & Shout ft.
SeptemberEquinox Stars
Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)
Sorry
Te DominarDaya Luz
Tico-Tico no Fubá
Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)Silentó
What Is LoveUltraclub 90
Wherever I GoOneRepublic
Worth It ft.
Routine variations enhance replayability, with most tracks offering standard solo, duet, or group choreographies, alongside alternates like extreme versions featuring heightened difficulty and intensity. For example, "Sorry" by includes an extreme routine with faster-paced and more acrobatic moves. Similarly, "Into You" by has male and female alternate versions to match player preferences. Mashups combine elements from multiple songs into themed sequences, such as ice-themed or community-voted routines. Several tracks use licensed covers by in-game performers, including "September" by Equinox Stars (covering , 1978), "What Is Love" by Ultraclub 90 (covering , 1993), and "I Love Rock 'N' Roll" by Fast Forward Highway (covering & the Blackhearts, 1981), allowing faithful recreations while navigating rights for the original recordings. These base routines exclude any , which is handled separately via Just Dance Unlimited.

Just Dance Unlimited integration

Just Dance Unlimited is a subscription-based streaming service integrated into Just Dance 2017, offering players access to over 200 songs from previous Just Dance titles as well as exclusive new content. The service provides a trial period included with the game, a 48-hour trial for standard editions in regions or a 3-month trial for PAL regions and Gold Edition, allowing users to sample the expanded library before opting for paid tiers such as monthly or annual subscriptions. This integration expands the base soundtrack by streaming additional routines on demand, enhancing replayability without requiring physical downloads. At launch, Just Dance Unlimited for Just Dance 2017 featured three exclusive tracks, including "Youth" by , alongside quarterly updates throughout 2017 that added more songs and routines. These additions included hits from prior games and original content tailored for the subscription, ensuring fresh material for subscribers. Access to Just Dance Unlimited is managed through an in-game store, where players link a account to enable cross-ownership and seamless play across compatible Just Dance titles. An online connection is mandatory for streaming the songs, as the service delivers routines directly without local storage, supporting platforms like PlayStation, , , and PC. The service operated alongside Just Dance 2017 until July 3, 2023, after which it was discontinued, making all Unlimited content inaccessible.

Release

Platform availability

Just Dance 2017 was released on October 25, 2016, in for the , , , , , , and PC via (with the PC version launching on October 27). A port for the followed on March 3, 2017, coinciding with the console's launch and available both physically and digitally worldwide. In PAL regions, the game launched on October 27, 2016, with the release on October 28, 2016, ensuring a near-simultaneous rollout across , , and for all initial platforms except the Switch port.
PlatformRelease Date (North America)Notes
WiiOctober 25, 2016Seventh-generation console
October 25, 2016Supports full features
October 25, 2016Seventh-generation console
October 25, 2016Eighth-generation console
October 25, 2016Seventh-generation console
October 25, 2016Eighth-generation console
PC ()October 27, 2016Digital-only
March 3, 2017Ported version with full features
The seventh-generation versions (Wii, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360) featured standard-definition graphics, a subset of routines and modes, and no support for Just Dance Unlimited, while eighth-generation versions (PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Wii U, PC, ) included high-definition visuals, the full tracklist with alternate routines unlockable via Mojocoins, and integration with Just Dance Unlimited. The song list ordering also differed, with alphabetical arrangement on eighth-generation platforms and a custom sequence on seventh-generation ones. Later, backward compatibility was confirmed for the and versions on Xbox Series X/S and , respectively, allowing play on newer hardware without additional ports.

Marketing and promotion

The marketing campaign for Just Dance 2017 began with its official reveal at the in June 2016, where opened its press conference with a live and unveiled an announcement trailer showcasing new gameplay features and tracks like "Sorry" by . The game received further exposure at 2016 in August, with additional trailers highlighting the Just Dance mode and encouraging player participation in global competitions. To build community engagement, promoted challenges via the in-game World Video Challenge feature, where players could record and share videos using the #JustDance2017 to compete against others worldwide. Ubisoft forged key partnerships to enhance the game's appeal, including collaborations with artists such as , whose tracks "Sorry" and "Let Me Love You" (the latter via Just Dance Unlimited) were featured prominently, with "Sorry" serving as the centerpiece for a free demo to drive early interest. Additionally, a tie-in with supported the game's port to the , released in March 2017, which was marketed as an extension of the core experience with the full tracklist available on the platform. Retail promotions emphasized accessibility and added value, with every new physical and digital purchase including a three-month trial subscription to Just Dance Unlimited, providing access to over 200 additional tracks to extend playtime beyond the base game's 40 songs. Free demo versions were made available across platforms like , , , and PC starting in August 2016, allowing up to six players to try "Sorry" using controls or , which helped generate buzz ahead of the launch. Advertising efforts ramped up in fall 2016 with prominent TV spots targeting families during the holiday season, featuring themed commercials like "Agatha" and "Bill" under the slogan "You never know someone until you dance with them," which aired on major networks to capitalize on seasonal gifting trends. Promotional events included live dance-offs at conventions such as E3 and Gamescom, where attendees could participate in on-stage routines and compete in previews of the Just Dance World Cup, as well as in-store demonstrations at retailers to showcase the game's motion controls and multiplayer fun. These activations extended through the World Cup qualifiers, incorporating live events from September 2016 to January 2017 to foster competitive excitement.

Reception

Critical reviews

Just Dance 2017 received mixed or average reviews from professional critics, earning scores ranging from 70 to 75/100 on Metacritic across platforms, with the Nintendo Switch version scoring 72/100 based on 19 reviews. On OpenCritic, the game scored 71/100 from 40 critics, placing it in the lower half of reviewed titles for the year. Reviewers generally appreciated its role as an accessible party game, though many noted its similarities to prior entries in the series. Positive feedback centered on the game's diverse soundtrack, which included over 40 tracks spanning pop hits like "Cheap Thrills" by Sia featuring and classic tunes such as "Don't Stop Me Now" by Queen, providing broad appeal for family play sessions. Critics highlighted its family-friendly nature, emphasizing the lighthearted, social fun that encouraged group participation without competitive pressure. The integration of a for motion tracking was praised for improving accessibility on platforms without dedicated peripherals, making it easier for casual players to join in. Specific routines, such as the energetic choreography for "Daddy" by ft. CL, were commended for their engaging visuals and variety in dance styles. IGN awarded it a 7/10, lauding its ease of use and vibrant presentation that kept sessions lively. Criticisms focused on a perceived lack of , with described as a predictable refinement of previous installments rather than a significant evolution. Reviewers pointed to repetitive mechanics that limited long-term engagement for solo players, often relying on the same core dance-following loop. Online modes suffered from glitches and server instability, frustrating attempts at global competitions like World Dance Floor. Replayability was hampered without subscribing to Just Dance Unlimited, which many saw as an intrusive gating additional content. Despite these issues, the game was noted for its inclusive representation of dancers across genders, body types, and backgrounds, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.

Awards and nominations

Just Dance 2017 received widespread recognition in children's entertainment awards, particularly for its family-friendly appeal and engaging gameplay. At the , the game won the Favorite Video Game category, beating out competitors such as and : Story Mode. This victory highlighted the title's popularity among young audiences, continuing the Just Dance series' tradition of success in youth-oriented accolades. The game was also nominated in several other children's media awards throughout 2017, including categories focused on family and multiplayer experiences, such as Best Family/Social Game at the Titanium Awards, though it did not secure additional major wins. These nominations underscored its role in promoting active play and social interaction within the gaming community. No significant industry awards were received post-2017, aligning with the series' established position rather than seeking further accolades for this installment.

Commercial performance and legacy

Sales figures

Just Dance 2017 performed strongly in key markets, particularly during its launch period in late 2016. In , the game was among the top 20 best-selling titles of the year according to NPD Group data, benefiting from a season boost that drove physical sales. In , it achieved notable chart success, topping the UK physical charts for the Wii platform in December 2016 and ranking as the 77th best-selling boxed game of 2017 overall, making it the platform's top performer. Globally, the title contributed to the Just Dance franchise's commercial success, with the series having sold over 60 million units by mid-2016. Exact lifetime sales figures for Just Dance 2017 are not publicly disclosed by , though it benefited from strong initial performance and ongoing Just Dance Unlimited subscriptions that added recurring revenue streams.

Post-release support and discontinuation

Following its release, Just Dance 2017 received several post-launch patches to address technical issues, such as stability improvements on PC platforms. These updates continued through 2018, focusing on bug fixes and minor enhancements to and connectivity. Additionally, free seasonal content was added via Just Dance Unlimited, including new song tracks and exclusive routines available to subscribers on a monthly basis until late 2018. The game featured no traditional downloadable content packs; all expansions and additional songs were integrated through the Just Dance Unlimited subscription service. The final notable update for Unlimited content accessible to Just Dance 2017 occurred in 2018, after which new additions were directed exclusively to later titles in the series. Online features for Just Dance 2017 were progressively discontinued across platforms due to the decommissioning of legacy services. For seventh-generation consoles like , servers shut down on November 19, 2018, while eighth-generation systems such as and saw closures on July 3, 2023; similar timelines applied to and other supported hardware. This affected modes like World Dance Floor and Just Dance Unlimited, rendering online multiplayer, challenges, and streaming songs unavailable, though offline single-player and local multiplayer functionality remained intact. In terms of legacy support, select tracks from Just Dance 2017 have been incorporated into Just Dance+ subscriptions for newer editions, such as , providing for fan-favorite songs through the updated service. Post-shutdown, the community has maintained access to Unlimited content via unofficial offline mods and save file edits on platforms like PC, preserving routines without online dependency.

References

  1. https://news.ubisoft.com/en-us/article/bLN0DMezOSJDYBZzp89f1/just-dance-2017-coming-to-consoles-and-pc-this-fall-confirmed-for-nx
  2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTPT8_8pzeQ
  3. https://www.amazon.com/Just-Dance-2017-Xbox-One/dp/B01GWGXHKK
  4. https://www.gamespot.com/articles/just-dance-2017-song-list-revealed/1100-6444469/
  5. https://www.metacritic.com/game/just-dance-2017/
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  7. https://www.shacknews.com/article/95103/e3-2016-dont-stop-just-dance-2017-now
  8. https://www.gamingnexus.com/News/37901/E3-2016-Just-Dance-2017-is-coming-this-October
  9. https://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2016/06/13/e3-2016-just-dance-2017-trailer/
  10. https://www.justdance.fandom.com/wiki/Just_Dance_2017
  11. https://www.mobygames.com/game/81767/just-dance-2017/
  12. https://www.shacknews.com/article/99292/just-dance-2017-review-you-should-be-dancin-yeah
  13. https://gamingboulevard.com/2016/11/review-just-dance-2017/
  14. https://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/44375/just-dance-2017-switch-review
  15. https://psnprofiles.com/guide/10616-just-dance-2017-trophy-guide
  16. https://justdance.fandom.com/wiki/Avatars/Just_Dance_2017
  17. https://www.ubisoft.com/en-us/help/purchases-and-rewards/article/decommissioning-of-online-services-for-older-legacy-ubisoft-games-a-m/000064576
  18. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90RHF36ZbQQ
  19. https://news.ubisoft.com/en-us/article/7EswGLpbl4ba8nZ6AQmcRI/just-dance-2017-now-available-for-nintendo-switch
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  21. https://news.ubisoft.com/en-us/article/5elZ5Kvty0JCVRuUpjhrOt/new-content-for-just-dance-unlimited
  22. https://www.ubisoft.com/en-us/help/connectivity-and-performance/article/changes-to-just-dance-unlimited/000107525
  23. https://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/store/just-dance-unlimited-1-month/c1f151pn55hm
  24. https://justdance.fandom.com/wiki/Just_Dance_Unlimited/Removed
  25. https://steamdb.info/app/446560/info/
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  27. https://www.nintendolife.com/games/nintendo-switch/just_dance_2017
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  32. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ioay6L5cWXk
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  42. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UO1xLXyc6Zw
  43. https://www.ispot.tv/product/ZBV
  44. https://adsspot.me/media/tv-commercials/just-dance-just-dance-2017-agatha-9b9c2e81b788
  45. https://opencritic.com/game/3409/just-dance-2017
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  50. https://www.criticalhit.net/review/just-dance-2017-watch-whip/
  51. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/kids-choice-awards-2017-the-winners-list-7718233/
  52. https://www.etonline.com/awards/212683_2017_kids_choice_awards_the_complete_winners_list
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  55. https://www.gamesindustry.biz/ea-and-call-of-duty-top-uk-december-physical-charts
  56. https://www.gamesindustry.biz/revealed-the-best-selling-uk-boxed-games-of-2017
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  58. https://gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2016/06/13/just-dance-is-coming-to-nintendo-nx-in-2017.aspx
  59. https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/446560/view/5280989900252816956
  60. https://steamdb.info/app/446560/patchnotes/
  61. https://www.[youtube](/page/YouTube).com/watch?v=2QG96ey_hko
  62. https://justdance.fandom.com/wiki/Just_Dance_Unlimited
  63. https://www.ubisoft.com/en-us/game/just-dance/plus
  64. https://gbatemp.net/threads/just-dance-patches-and-save-files.665870/
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