From the Tablao to the Console: José Maya Partners with Nintendo for the Launch of Rhythm Paradise Groove
At Leplato Prod, we have always believed that flamenco is a universal language capable of breaking barriers across genres, disciplines, and formats. That is why we are incredibly proud to share one of the most innovative and exciting milestones in José Maya’s career: his recent collaboration with Nintendo for the launch of the highly anticipated videogame, Rhythm Paradise Groove.
The official launch event, held in Madrid, served as the perfect stage to prove that the mathematical precision and pulse of flamenco share the exact same heartbeat as the musical challenges of the gaming world.
A Long-Standing Connection
This is not the first time José Maya's artistic path has crossed with the Japanese gaming giant. In fact, this partnership honors a historical relationship: Maya was the official face chosen to introduce the original franchise (Rhythm Paradise) to the Spanish market back in 2009 for the legendary Nintendo DS.
Now, with the franchise making its grand return to Nintendo Switch, Nintendo has once again relied on José’s mastery to explain the true power of rhythm to media outlets and gamers alike.
The Masterclass: Rhythm as the Language of Life
During the presentation, José Maya—accompanied live by the impeccable percussion of Iván Losada—delivered an exclusive masterclass that bridged musical theory with the game's mechanics. José reflected on how the 4x4 time signature, which acts as the backbone for many of the quirky minigames in Rhythm Paradise Groove, is the very same structural foundation that drives global genres like jazz, pop, and flamenco tangos.
Our bailaor highlighted that learning rhythm through play is an ancient tradition deeply rooted in Gitano culture, where children naturally absorb the beat through interactive clapping circles and movement. This organic, intuitive approach to learning is exactly what Nintendo's new title captures: a game that rewards listening and focus over just looking at a screen.
The Ultimate Stage: Testing the Multiplayer Mode
The event wrapped up by merging digital practice with live performance. José Maya took the stage to play a live match of the new cooperative multiplayer mode in Rhythm Paradise Groove, demonstrating that maintaining a flawless tempo under pressure is a challenge that is as fun on the console as it is demanding on the stage. Following the gameplay session, the event concluded with an explosive live exhibition where footwork, handclaps, and cajón percussion blended seamlessly with the essence of the game.
For Leplato Prod, seeing José Maya collaborate with global powerhouses like Nintendo reinforces our core vision: flamenco is a living, flexible, and avant-garde art form that continues to lead the tomorrow's cultural conversation.
Release Details:
Videogame: Rhythm Paradise Groove
Platform: Nintendo Switch
Official Collaborator: José Maya
Production House: Leplato Prod
