What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that this is an affordable
rhythm/strategy adventure that has a theme about war. Using a
set of drums, players control an army of Patapons across
various environments. Since you're involved in a war, there is
some mild (this is E-rated) cartoon violence. Patapons use
spears and axes to defeat enemies. When Patapons "die" on the
battlefield, they can be resurrected later in Patapolis.
Families can talk about the rise in popularity of rhythm games. What makes titles like these so appealing?
Common Sense Media Review
PATAPON is an alluring, hypnotic rhythm game with a mix of
real-time strategy. You control the Patapons, a tribe of
warriors resembling walking eyeballs. Once rulers of their
world, the tribe returns to Earthend to try to regain their
previous glory. You play the game by using each button on the
PlayStation Portable to represent a drum. Playing different
tunes will require the Patapons to march forward, attack, or
defend. The goal is to keep your song going as long as possible
to maximize your force's efforts. The longer the song goes, the
higher your combo. Play long enough and the Patapons reach
fever status, which drastically improves their battlefield
skills. Patapons vary from long-range archers to melee
warriors. With your drumming, you will lead the Patapons
through a series of missions.
The look of Patapon is incredibly unique. For walking eyeballs, the Patapons can be very expressive. Environments boast plenty of powerful colors that pop right off the screen. Learning the drum beats is easy, yet there's still a solid challenge between hulking enemies as well as attempting to string varying beats together in succession. Also, don't be surprised if the catchy tunes get stuck in your head.
Patapon also sports a surprisingly high level of customization. Between battles, you go to Patapolis to create stronger Patapons using collected items. You can then customize or upgrade each with weapons and armor. Each Patapon's stat sheet is thorough, detailing everything from attack power to speed so you can strategize on how to become more powerful. This gameplay is fascinating and fun, making Patapon a must-have for PSP owners of any age.
Younger players seeking similar rhythm games may enjoy Pa Rappa the Rapper 2 for PlayStation 2 or Boogie on the Wii. Also fun in Elite Beat Agents , a rhythm game for the Nintendo DS. Older gamers should check out Rock Band .
Common Sense Media is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information to help parents make media and entertainment choices for their families.
