Never played Beatmania, got recommended this version for a newcomer into the series, also I'm crazy enough to play it with a regular controller (tried it for a few minutes and while the button layout is confusing I think I can get used to it).
Should I play another version or this one is good enough?

This one is probably one of the best ps2 releases but I would check out Red and DJ Troopers as well. They tend to be cheaper too, at least, last I checked. If you end up enjoying it, maybe get an actual controller eventually. You'll have a lot more fun.

>>11808290 (OP)
That is the best ps2 version. Good to see if you like the series and want to invest in an arcade controller. Emulates horribly though. Everyone pirates latest arcade version which includes songs from the older versions, or they play Infinitas, which is the latest home release on PC, or they play sims.

>>11808290 (OP)
I actually have a sealed copy of this game that I was going to play, but never got the modded or Japanese PS2. Should probably sell it while people remember what it is.

>>11808440
you don't have to buy one. You just put mechapwn on it yourself for region free discs. Or use OPL with bypasses region locks too. You can buy a memory card with free mcboot preinstalled for like $10 to $20 on ebay. Once you have that installing open loader or mechapwn is easy. If you use OPL you'll need a way to play the games like a hard drive or SMB server. USB is bad.

>>11808418
>emulates it horribly though
how so? i tried it for a bit on pcsx2 to test it and didn't found anything weird with it like bad timing or input delay.
I can burn it to a dvd anyways.

>>11808856
Feels like shit if you've played the arcade versions or on a real ps2 for 1000+ hours.

Bump for protection.

>>11808290 (OP)
>>11808397
The artwork for this series is phenomenal. Pure 2000s kino.

Semi related but the people here should know: what's the best way to emulate Pop'n Music past 16? I have already played every console and portable game in the series. How do I play the arcade releases starting with 17?

>>11810878
There's an oldass artbook of GOLI with a bunch of his Beatmania work, plus an extra DVD with a videoclip. I have that stuff in my old PC, I really need to rescue that stuff.

slightly related.
i have pic related, i've only used it like twice. it is loud and kinda small, but still comfortable to use.

red was the first one that i managed to get an arcade hdd rip off demonoid for, so to me that's the best
all bemani is good desu