Similar to Beatmania but colored by bright pastel colors and an eclectic cast of characters, Pop 'n Music 7 pilots players through a rainbow explosion as opposed to Beatmania's subtle shades and somber lighting. The gist of Pop 'n Music is this: A judgment bar sits on the bottom of the screen and notes fall from the sky towards the bar. These notes are called Mr Pops and one must slap the corresponding button for each Mr Pop in order to receive a rating. Hit the button as the note massages the judgment bar perfectly and you'll receive a favorable rating ranging from Fever to Good. Miss the bar and meet Mr Bad.

   New characters to the game include the bohemian Mutsuki, psychedelically colored Machuchu, and the space-faring Sumire, among many others. New modes in addition to the standard arcade mode allow players to practice skills, create custom levels, and engage in a 4-player tournament mode. There are 64 songs in the game but an additional 33 secret songs may be unlocked by meeting certain conditions.

   Pop 'n Music 7 includes two modes on one DVD - Side A features the Arcade Edition of the game while Side B features an Original Home Edition made especially for the PS2 which includes game modes that are not in the Arcade Edition such as a 4-player Party jam.