Simple rhythmic gameplay makes Patapon remarkably excellent, with an involving story and absorbing characters.
Enter a world where you play as a formless deity, commanding a group of simpletons known as the Patapons, as they go through their hunts, missions and the like. And commanding them doesn't take you through cavernous menus and complicated controls. No. Instead, you'll just push buttons like any kid. But there's a catch: you must time your button presses into the rhythm, making it quite addictive. It's so much fun learning what's going to happen to your little people.
And learning gets better, as the graphics contribute to your eagerness. Created by talented French 'artiste' Rolito, the graphics are simple but effective. Subtle movements blend in with the background, character designs are a marvel and every little bit of the special effects make for a very fun sightseeing. All playing on a 2D graphics engine. Yes, Patapon is that great.
And being a rhythm game, of course Patapon has some great musical pieces. The drums you beat are easily recognized, the background music can be easy to get into and the singing of your teeny Patapons are brilliant.
There's also that addictive, charming thing going with it. Even as you play it over and over again, Patapon never gets tiring. It's THAT great.
So, it seems that this review may be on the short side, but expect to see Patapon be on the higher ranks of the PSP games. Don't get left behind. Get Patapon and see how amazing simplicity can be.