Mixtape, a music-themed game featuring 28 licensed tracks from artists such as Devo, The Smashing Pumpkins, and Iggy Pop, will stay available on digital storefronts despite rumors of delisting due to music license expiration [1, 2, 3, 4].
The developer Beethoven and Dinosaur secured music licenses "in perpetuity" by paying extra fees to avoid future removal risks, a strategy that sets Mixtape apart from other licensed-music games like Guitar Hero and Rock Band 4 that have faced delisting [1, 5, 2, 3, 4]. Johnny Galvatron, associated with the developer, said Mixtape’s music was licensed "in perpetuity," emphasizing the effort to keep the soundtrack intact indefinitely [1, 4].
Launched on May 7, 2026, for Nintendo Switch 2, PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X, Mixtape is currently well-reviewed and available on platforms including Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and Steam [1, 2, 4]. Annapurna Interactive publicly refuted claims on May 16 that the game would be removed, calling those rumors "a lie" on X (formerly Twitter) [1, 5, 2, 3, 4].
The game’s soundtrack spans many music eras, and while the developer sought additional licenses, such as a Pink Floyd track, some were not secured as "boundary tests" [2, 4]. Previous games like Star Trek: Resurgence, Lego 2K Drive, and Forza Horizon titles have been delisted after music licenses expired, highlighting the challenges Mixtape avoided [1, 2, 3].
Mixtape remains available on multiple digital storefronts with no plans for removal. Its next spotlight will likely follow any announcements from the publisher or developer regarding future updates or expansions.
