 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Patapon
Common Sense Media says
Hypnotic, fun rhythm game with quirky characters.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to 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.
What's it about?
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.
Is it any good?
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.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about the rise in popularity of rhythm games. What makes titles like these so appealing?
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| Platforms: | PSP |
| Available online? | Not available online |
| Genre: | Music |
| Developer: | Sony Computer Entertainment |
| Release date: | February 26, 2008 |
| Price: | $19.99 |
| ESRB rating: | E for Everyone |
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