Patapon is shackled to PlayStation no longer! The once PlayStation Portable (PSP) exclusives have expanded their rhythm-based stylings to PC and Nintendo Switch thanks to Bandai Namco. For the first time in their near two-decade existence, Patapon 1 and 2 can be experience outside of Sony’s console ecosystem, enabling access to the handheld classics for all-new audiences. The news of niche games’ 15+ year journey to modern devices may not immediately stoke excitement from those other than the original die-hards, but there is something special about these simplistic yet engaging bygone titles.
Patapon 1+2 Replay is the visually updated bundle being laid before us wherein players embody the deity known as the Mighty Patapon, controlling an army of the titular eyeball warriors. The goal of the odd-looking tribe, once renowned for their indomitable conquests, is to reach the promised land of Earthend and gaze upon “IT.” And that’s about all there is to the story setting up the quirky rhythm combat that follows. Fortunately, the melodic showdowns making up the core experience are a treat.
“Beat” ‘Em Up
The bipedal eyeball tribesmen are activated by specific sounds, namely those produced by the four mystical drums. As luck would have it, those four drum beats are tied to the four controller face buttons (or arrow keys on PC). The name of the game is strategically stringing together these command beats while keeping the rhythm. Combinations of PATA, PON, DON, and CHAKA direct the 2D forces on the battlefield. Through timely inputs, Patapon can be issued orders to advance, attack or even run for their lives. Knowing when to issue which directive is key in the small, loyal combatants’ victory over various beasts and even a rival Zigoton tribe.
Newcomers may find a gradual learning curve as they familiarize themselves with the available commands, but an invaluable “Help” pop-up keeps the available orders in view. Flawlessly nailing these commands within the correct tempo builds a combo, which will eventually result in Fever being activated. During Fever, the abilities of the Patapon are notably enhanced. Special maneuvers, called miracles, also become available. Fire can be rendered less effective by rain, enemies can be staggered by an earthquake and more. There’s enough strategy embedded in Patapon 1+2 Replay to feel rewarding without becoming overly complex. But should the threats feel too formidable for the drum-activated killers, multiple difficulty options exist to bring the experience in line with the desired challenge.
Melodious Monotony
The restoration of the tribe’s former glory is a feat that is achieved through upgrading equipment and obtaining stronger Patapon with unit-specific abilities. To do this requires a notable grind, especially as more daunting bosses present themselves. Revisiting former locations and resource gathering can pad out the adventure, stretching out the playtime to the point that the repetitive loop struggles to be thwarted by its colorful charm. It’s exactly as it was in the late 00’s, without any quality of life changes here to alleviate this pain. For purists, the one-to-one copy will likely be received with open arms; for everyone else, the cult classic may erode away its appeal earlier than expected through this characteristic.
Patapon 1+2 Replay is a no-frills re-release that largely leaves the original experience as-is, for better or worse. The vibrant backdrops remain visually appealing as the hordes of chanting eyes square off with a wide variety of foes. And getting into a groove, nailing perfect combos in pursuit of Fever, manages to satisfy each time. But the simplicity of the experience begins to shine through, reminding of its limited scope and diversity sooner rather than later.
Patapon 1+2 Replay Review Verdict
Patapon 1+2 Replay: Patapon 1+2 Replay brings a couple PSP classics into the modern era, unshackled from both its handheld and Sony roots. It's an engaging peek into a unique rhythm/strategy/RPG experience from a long past generation, albeit one that's relatively short-lived due to its repetitive nature. Still, there's something charming about the whole package, even with its faults. – Joshua
[Editor’s Note: Patapon 1+2 Replay was reviewed on PC and a copy was provided to us for review purposes.]