Just Dance 2017 holds a unique position in the history of rhythm games, particularly as a launch title for the Nintendo Switch. Released during the transition between console generations, it bridged the gap between the Wii U era and the hybrid portability of the Switch. For players today, whether they are collectors or those revisiting the physical cartridge, the base song list remains a core attraction. Unlike modern entries that rely heavily on live-service platforms, the 2017 edition provides a self-contained experience of mid-2010s pop culture.

The Core Tracklist of Just Dance 2017

The fundamental appeal of Just Dance 2017 lies in its diverse library, which includes 40 base tracks. These songs were selected to represent a wide spectrum of genres, from Top 40 hits to classic disco and world music.

Complete Alphabetical Song List

  1. All About Us – Jordan Fisher
  2. Bailar – Deorro Ft. Elvis Crespo
  3. Bang – Anitta
  4. Bonbon – Era Istrefi
  5. Cake By The Ocean – DNCE
  6. Can't Feel My Face – The Weeknd
  7. Carnaval Boom – Latino Sunset
  8. Cheap Thrills – Sia Ft. Sean Paul
  9. Cola Song – INNA Ft. J Balvin
  10. Daddy – PSY Ft. CL of 2NE1
  11. Don't Stop Me Now – Queen
  12. Don't Wanna Know – Maroon 5
  13. Dragostea Din Tei – O-Zone
  14. El Tiki – Maluma
  15. Ghost In The Keys – Halloween Thrills
  16. Groove – Jack & Jack
  17. Hips Don't Lie – Shakira Ft. Wyclef Jean
  18. I Love Rock 'N' Roll – Fast Forward Highway
  19. Into You – Ariana Grande
  20. La Bicicleta – Carlos Vives & Shakira
  21. Last Christmas – Santa Clones
  22. Lean On – Major Lazor Ft. MØ & DJ Snake
  23. Leila – Cheb Salama
  24. Let Me Love You – DJ Snake Ft. Justin Bieber (Originally a Ubisoft Club reward)
  25. Like I Would – ZAYN
  26. Little Swing – AronChupa Ft. Little Sis Nora
  27. Oishii Oishii – Wanko Ni Mero Mero
  28. PoPiPo – Hatsune Miku
  29. Radical – Dyro & Dannic
  30. Run The Night – Gigi Rowe
  31. Scream & Shout – will.i.am Ft. Britney Spears
  32. September – Equinox Stars
  33. Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It) – Beyoncé
  34. Sorry – Justin Bieber
  35. Te Dominar – Daya Luz
  36. Tico-Tico no Fubá – The Frankie Bostello Orchestra
  37. Watch Me (Whip / Nae Nae) – Silentó
  38. What Is Love – Ultraclub 90
  39. Wherever I Go – OneRepublic
  40. Worth It – Fifth Harmony Ft. Kid Ink

Nintendo Switch Exclusive Content: "How Deep Is Your Love"

One of the most notable aspects of the Nintendo Switch version of Just Dance 2017 was the inclusion of "How Deep Is Your Love" by Calvin Harris & Disciples. At launch, this track was marketed as an exclusive addition for Switch owners, rewarding early adopters of the hardware. While the song eventually appeared on the Just Dance Unlimited subscription service for other platforms, it remains a permanent fixture of the Switch's version's legacy identity.

Alternate Routines and Choreography Variations

Just Dance 2017 is often praised for the depth of its choreography, particularly through the "Alternate Routine" system. These are not merely higher difficulty levels but entirely different visual and kinetic experiences.

  • Extreme Versions: Tracks like "Sorry" and "Scream & Shout" feature Extreme routines. These are designed for advanced players, focusing on intricate footwork and high-energy synchronization that mimics professional backup dancing.
  • Thematic Alternates: "Cheap Thrills" offers a Bollywood version, which completely transforms the aesthetic and movement style of the song. Similarly, "What Is Love" features a "Car Version," a seated routine that focuses on arm movements and upper body expression, making it accessible for different play environments.
  • Fitness-Oriented Routines: The "September" Fitness version emphasizes aerobic movement over stylistic dance, catering to those using the game for workout purposes.

Deep Dive into the "Just Dance Machine" Mode

A standout feature introduced in the 2017 edition—and particularly well-suited for the portable nature of the Switch—is the Just Dance Machine. This mode departs from the traditional full-song format to offer a more arcade-like experience.

The narrative involves two aliens who have run out of energy for their spaceship. To help them, players must perform a series of short dance segments across various styles. This mode tests a player's versatility as it rapidly switches between genres such as:

  • Flamenco
  • Charleston
  • Ballet
  • Haka
  • French Can-Can

In the context of the Nintendo Switch, the Joy-Con’s HD Rumble technology provides subtle haptic feedback during these segments, enhancing the tactile experience of switching rhythmic styles on the fly.

Technical Implementation on Nintendo Switch

As a launch title, Just Dance 2017 served as a showcase for the Switch's unique hardware capabilities.

Joy-Con Precision

The Joy-Con controllers are the primary way to play. The internal gyroscopes and accelerometers are highly sensitive, allowing for accurate tracking of the player's right hand. While the scoring system in 2017 is generally more lenient than in the most recent iterations, it still requires a level of "snap" and rhythm that distinguishes casual players from those aiming for the "Superstar" rank (which begins at 11,000 points).

Smartphone Integration

For those who do not have enough Joy-Cons for a full six-player party, Just Dance 2017 supports the use of a smartphone as a controller via a dedicated app. This feature uses the phone’s internal sensors to track movements. However, it is important to note that as we are now in 2026, compatibility with modern smartphone operating systems can vary, and players may find the native Joy-Con experience more stable.

The Superstar Rank and Scoring System

Just Dance 2017 was the first entry in the main series to introduce the "Superstar" rank. Prior to this, "5 Stars" was the highest achievable tier. The Superstar rank added a new layer of replayability for competitive dancers.

To achieve Superstar, a player must score at least 11,000 points. The interface reflects this achievement by turning the stars into a platinum-like finish. This was a response to the community's desire for a higher ceiling of mastery, as many veteran players found the 5-star threshold too easy to reach on certain pop tracks.

World Dance Floor and Multiplayer Dynamics

The World Dance Floor returned in this version, allowing Switch players to compete against users on other platforms like PS4 and Xbox One. This cross-platform approach was a major step for the series at the time.

In 2026, it is important to acknowledge that the online infrastructure for legacy titles has shifted. Most online services for Just Dance 2017, including the World Dance Floor and Just Dance Unlimited, were officially discontinued in 2023. This means that for a player today, the game is primarily a local multiplayer and single-player experience. The "Dance Quest" mode, where players compete against AI across a series of three-song sets, remains the best way to experience a sense of progression without an internet connection.

Just Dance Unlimited: Historical Context

At its release, Just Dance 2017 on the Switch offered a three-month trial of Just Dance Unlimited. This was a revolutionary streaming service that allowed access to over 200 tracks from previous games. For a long time, this made Just Dance 2017 the "complete" dance library for the Switch.

Since the servers are no longer active for this specific version, the value of the game now rests entirely on its on-cartridge tracklist. This makes the 40 songs mentioned earlier—and their alternate versions—the definitive content of the package. For many, this is actually a benefit, as it removes the distraction of a subscription model and focuses on mastering a curated list of hits from a specific era of music.

Why Play Just Dance 2017 in 2026?

You might wonder why someone would choose to play the 2017 version when more modern editions are available on the Nintendo eShop. There are several nuanced reasons for this:

  1. Unique Menu System: The 2017 edition features the classic grid-based menu system which many fans prefer over the newer "streaming platform" interface found in games from 2023 onwards.
  2. Specific Track Selection: Songs like "PoPiPo" by Hatsune Miku or the "Don't Stop Me Now" Panda routine have a certain charm that hasn't always been replicated in newer entries.
  3. No Always-Online Requirement: Modern Just Dance titles often require a constant internet connection to even browse the song list. The 2017 version, being a traditional software release, works perfectly in offline mode, making it ideal for travel or areas with poor connectivity.
  4. The Just Dance Machine: As mentioned, this specific mode is exclusive to this era of the series and offers a gameplay loop that isn't present in the newer "Platform" versions of Just Dance.

Tips for High Scores on the Switch

Achieving the Superstar rank on the Switch requires more than just following the on-screen dancer.

  • Energy and Velocity: The Joy-Cons track speed as much as position. If a move looks sharp and sudden, ensure your movement reflects that acceleration. Soft, lazy movements often result in a "Good" or "OK" rating rather than a "Perfect."
  • Focus on the Right Hand: Since the game only tracks the right Joy-Con, your primary focus should be on the mimicry of the dancer’s right hand. Even if your feet aren't perfectly in sync, a perfect hand position will secure the points.
  • Utilize the Practice in Dance Quest: Before attempting a Superstar run on a difficult track like "Worth It (Extreme Version)," play through the Dance Quest associated with it. This builds muscle memory for the routine's transitions.

Conclusion

Just Dance 2017 for the Nintendo Switch remains a foundational piece of the console's library. While its online features have faded into the past, the core song list stands as a vibrant time capsule of 2016 and 2017 pop music. From the high-energy beats of Justin Bieber to the nostalgic rhythm of Queen, it offers a robust dancing experience that is as relevant for a house party today as it was at the Switch's launch. For those looking to experience a standalone, subscription-free rhythm game, this title continues to provide significant value through its diverse choreography and unique gameplay modes.