A game-theoretic analysis of traditional song selection rules in rhythm game tournaments

In competitive rhythm gaming, the selection of songs (or “charts”) to be played is a crucial factor that can significantly influence the outcome of the match. Building on this importance, rhythm game tournaments often incorporate strategic elements into the song selection process. Instead of predefined selections, match songs are determined through player interactions in a mini-game, enhancing the tournament’s entertainment value. This selection process must balance various factors, including fairness and entertainment value, making its rule design essential for improving the overall tournament experience. Reflecting these diverse requirements, a variety of selection methods are actively used in both fan-driven and official tournaments. In this paper, we mathematically analyze the fairness of these selection processes using game theory, for the purpose of providing insights into the design of rhythm game tournament rules. Focusing on three song selection methods confirmed to be used in real tournaments, we conduct a comparative analysis with an emphasis on fairness and entertainment value.