Another shocking revitalized title was announced at the Nintendo Direct with Patapon 1+2 Replay. Another Japan Studio title fallen by the wayside after they were unceremoniously cut down and picked up by Bandai Namco. Patapon 1+2 Replay combines the first two entries in the Patapon series, originally released on the PSP, and brings them to modern platforms. Allowing customization for some Patapon, Replay adds in updated graphics and new difficulty settings.
Originally released for the PSP in 2007 with the follow-up in 2008, Patapon 1 & 2 were received well by both critics and fans alike, and another sequel followed in the following years. In 2016 Patapon Remastered was announced with a promise of improved 1080p visuals and 4K support on the PlayStation 4 Pro. It was released in August of 2017 to middling reviews, where some found issues with input lag and various low-resolution assets.
Several years later, Patapon 2 Remastered released to more favorable reviews but critics cited the removal of online functionality offers an incomplete experience that left the PSP version the better option. With that said it should be more clear why Sony had someone else take the reins on a remaster this time around.
The title is a 2D-platform game which offers a unique blend of rhythm-based action and real-time strategy, where players must overcome their enemies and return the Patapon to Earthend. As the Almighty, players will be tasked with following rhythmic commands intertwined with a catchy soundtrack set in charming and colorful environments. Players will find the game easy to jump into with its intuitive and rhythm-based controls and will ultimately need to hone their skills for precise timing and tactical thinking to maintain the rhythm to truly master the Patapon tribe. Along with updated graphics, players can now choose between three difficulty settings (Normal, Easy and Hard).
Patapon is a very novel series, as most of Japan Studios games were, and I think as long as this isn’t just a repackaging of the first two Remastered games, fans will appreciate the work that went into this. The customization work alone added into Patapon 1+2 Replay is an interesting plus.
Players can also customize their army with troops varying in distinct roles and combat styles such as the flag-waving “Hatapon” who leads the charge, the horse-riding “Kibapon” who charges into battle, and the bow-wielding “Yumipon” who strikes from afar. Patapons can also be enhanced by combining items collected from rare materials through stages and missions. With over 400 types of weapons and equipment, players can build their personalized Patapon unit and tackle diverse stages and formidable enemies.
Though I believe enhancing units was something that was achieved in the PSP releases, the customization is new.
Patapon 1+2 Replay Key Features
- BUNDLE OF PATAPON AND PATAPON 2 – Remastered bundle of the original critically-acclaimed Patapon and Patapon 2 which were released in 2007 and 2008.
- SIMPLE CONTROLS AND STRATEGIC GAMEPLAY – A charming combination of simplicity and strategic depth. Extremely easy to learn, yet pleasantly challenging to master. Rhythmically hit just four drums – PATA (●), PON (●), DON (●), CHAKA (●) – to switch commands based on the battle situation and assemble your squad with Patapons of various classes suited to the stage.
- PACKED WITH REPLAYABILITY – PRODUCE/BUILD NEW PATAPON – You can create and enhance your Patapon by combining items. Collect rare materials from stages and mini games to craft stronger Patapon. With over 400 types of weapons and equipment, you can build your personalized Patapon unit and tackle diverse stages and formidable enemies.
- NEW SUPPORT FEATURES FOR EASIER PLAY WHILE ENJOYING THE ORIGINAL FUN – The fun of the original is preserved with updates making it even more accessible and enjoyable! This package introduces new support features like three difficulty settings (NORMAL, EASY, HARD), timing adjustment, and constant command display.
Unfortunately, that means online multiplayer for Patapon 2 is a no-go. While the Nintendo Switch version of the game will offer 4-player Local Co-op, the other versions are locked to a single-player experience. Patapon 1+2 Replay will release on July 11th, 2025, for PC via Steam, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch. You can currently wishlist Patapon 1+2 Replay on both Steam and PlayStation.
