Patapon 1+2 Replay is, well, a collection of Patapon 1 & 2 in one convenient package. The seminal RTS rhythm games from the PSP were brought back for a variety of systems. This is technically the second time these games have been remastered. Patapon 1 & 2 were released on PS4 a few years ago, but not without issue. Both releases suffered from input delay, making the two almost unplayable at times.
Patapon 1+2 Replay
Developer: SAS Co., LTD.
Price: $29.99
Platform: PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PC (reviewed)
MonsterVine was supplied with a Steam code for review
Thankfully those issues have been fixed for the most part. There still feels like there might be a slight delay, but nothing that hampers the minute to minute gameplay. Making this the best way to play these games. But what if you’ve never played Patapon before?
Well, I want you to imagine an unholy fusion of a rhythm game, an RTS, and Monster Hunter. That insane combination is basically Patapon.
You play as the great Patapon, and through song, guide the titular Patapon to fame, and glory, and in the first game it to the earth’s end. You do this by playing drum beats on the face buttons, which tell your Patapon to move forward, attack, defend, etc.
Along the way, you’ll fight the zigaron, basically the evil Patapon. As well as giant dinosaurs, crabs, and other monsters. When slain, these beats drop pieces that allow you to build gear, upgrade weapons, and build your army. Things switch up a bit in Patapon 2 with the inclusion of heroes. Which grants powerful boons to your Patapon, like invincibility or increased damage.
The Final Word
There really isn’t much more to say. Patapon 1+2 Replay is something that should be experienced. A throwback to a wilder time at Sony, where new hardware would be a place for whimsical experimentation. It’s a game that plays with wild ideas, and ones that generally all succeed. If you’re looking for something strange and different, or want to spend some time with a classic, you can’t do much better.
MonsterVine Rating: 4.5 out of 5 – Great
