The Idolmaster

Raise pop idols and guide their rise to stardom

gameLife & Farming Sim music simulatoridol

Visit Website

Our Verdict

Best for

Idol‑culture fans craving deep management simulation on Xbox 360

Skip if

Those without Xbox 360 or who dislike dated graphics

What is The Idolmaster?

The Idolmaster is a Japanese raising simulation game where you act as a producer training aspiring pop idols. Released originally in arcades in 2005 and brought to Xbox 360 in 2007, it blends schedule planning, lesson training, and audition management. Players arrange daily activities, take idols to jobs, improve their skills through lessons, and build personal relationships that affect performance. The game supports both single‑player and multiplayer modes, letting you compete or cooperate with friends while shaping an idol's career.

SpecificationsAI-estimated

msrp$59.99

developerMetro Corporation

publisherNamco Bandai Games

age ratingESRB T

multiplayerSingle player, Multiplayer

release date2007-01-27

Key Features of The Idolmaster

Arrange daily schedules for each idol, balancing work, lessons, and rest.

Conduct voice, dance, and visual lessons to improve specific idol stats.

Guide idols through audition challenges that test timing and skill.

Develop personal memories with idols through conversation events.

Compete or cooperate with other players in multiplayer idol contests.

Experience the full arcade storyline adapted for console with enhanced graphics.

Use Cases for The Idolmaster

Career Planning

Players map out long‑term idol development strategies.

Skill Training

Use lesson modules to boost singing, dancing, or visual appeal.

Multiplayer Competition

Challenge friends in live idol performance battles.

Story Exploration

Follow narrative events that reveal each idol's background.

Pros & Cons of The Idolmaster

Pros

Deep idol management mechanics
Rich storyline with multiple characters
Both single‑player and multiplayer options
Authentic Japanese pop culture feel

Cons

Limited to Xbox 360 platform
Steep learning curve for new players
Graphics dated by modern standards

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Idolmaster available on platforms other than Xbox 360?

The 2007 version was released exclusively for Xbox 360; earlier arcade version is not available on home consoles.

Can I play with friends online?

Yes, the game includes multiplayer modes where you can compete or cooperate with other players.

Do I need prior knowledge of Japanese idols to enjoy the game?

No, the game introduces each idol and their background, making it accessible to newcomers.

Is there any downloadable content (DLC) for this title?

The original Xbox 360 release did not include DLC; all content is built into the base game.

Pricing Overview

View full pricing →

Paid (One-time)

Detailed plans are not listed. Visit the official website for pricing information.

Reviews & Ratings0.0

Write a Review See all reviews →

No reviews yet. Be the first to write one!

Top Alternatives & Similar Games

View all alternatives & similar games→

The Idolmaster 2

Verified

Building on the original game’s mechanics, this sequel adds a refreshed roster, refined training systems, and removes online multiplayer, focusing on a deep single‑player experience. Your strategic choices determine whether the trio rises to fame and claims top honors.

Compare with The Idolmaster

The Idolmaster: Live For You!

Verified

The Idolmaster: Live For You! puts you in the shoes of a special producer tasked with coordinating live performances for eleven pop idols. Build custom stages, choose costumes, and fine‑tune camera angles to deliver the perfect concert experience. The game blends music simulation with a rhythm mini‑game, letting you feel the beat while watching the idols shine. With 74 songs—including original tracks and remixes—players can craft unique shows and replay them with full control over visuals and sound.

Compare with The Idolmaster