In the games, players play through a collection of rhythm mini-games, each with its own set of rules.

When you get a "Superb" rank, the player earns a medal which can be used to unlock extra game modes such as Endless Games, and it also allows the player to be eligible for the randomly selected Perfect Campaigns.

[1] On some occasions, players are allowed to attempt a Perfect Campaign of a randomly selected stage that they have a "Superb" rank on.

Players who succeed receive an in-game certificate as well as a gift (varying on the rhythm game).

[4] Osawa was wary that people would enjoy it due to its lack of a music score as he felt that it might only appeal to a niche audience.

It was decided to be released on the GBA due to Osawa's desire for a smaller screen and portability.

Osawa brought this offer to the attention of Nintendo president Satoru Iwata and others who approved of the idea.

Since Osawa did not like the idea of using buttons, he considered a control mechanic that involved the touchscreen.

Players can flick, tap, and slide the stylus on the touch screen to control the game.

The game's presents a story mode, which differentiates itself from the traditional Rhythm Heaven format.

[12][13][14] On the Nintendo DS version, IGN reviewers say that the game is "unlike anything you've ever played, not to mention incredibly fun and just as addictive.".

"[16] On the Wii version, Jose Otero from 1Up.com gave the game an A−, stating: "The amount of mileage Nintendo squeezes out of Rhythm Heaven Fever's two-button gameplay is remarkable – more than 50 mini-games including regular stages, rhythm toys, and endless games to play – especially in a time when the kind of games I typically consume require more button inputs."

"[17] The original release on the Game Boy Advance received an Excellence Prize for Entertainment at the 10th annual Japan Media Arts Festival in 2006.

[18] Abigail Kwak from The Gamer considers the series as a whole "so memorable" that they are "still booting up our Wiis to play classics like Rhythm Heaven Fever even to this day.

"[19] Similarly, Logan Plant from IGN believes that the Rhythm Heaven series is one of the best and weirdest Nintendo franchises, and should be brought back due to there not being an entry since Megamix in 2016.