GameSpot | GameFAQs | SportsGamer | Metacritic | MP3.com | TV.com
 |
|
||||
|
 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
How Metascores Are Calculated
55
B-Boy
Stars indicate the most critically-acclaimed games. |
For years the Patapon tribe has lived in the desolate frontier, driven from their home by the evil Zigoton army. Behind the Patapons' cute exterior, lies a fierce warrior spirit that can only be commanded by the beat of their God’s war drum. They wait for the day that the "Almighty" will return, to lead them against their enemies and bring them back to their homeland. Finally, their wait has come to an end as the drums of war are heard once again. Rhythm and Action Collide – Master up to six different drumbeats to command the Patapon troops to march, attack, defend, power up, retreat, and use magic. Combine the various chains of drumbeats to address each unique level, leading the Patapons to victory over the Zigoton enemy forces. Strategic Gaming – Patapon delivers a strong element of strategy by requiring players to properly customize and build up the Patapon army, arm each soldier with particular weapons and armor, and position them correctly for battle. Mission Variety – Take part in more than 30 specific missions including hunting, escort, and boss battles, and explore numerous vivid environments along the way. Players will discover and access more than 100 items and weapons throughout the adventure. Unique Art Style – French graphic artist Rolito, noted for his abstract art style seen in collectible toys, animation, and websites, lends his skills to create a variety of unique characters and environments, bringing the Patapon world to life. Mini-Games – Five music-based mini-games allow players to earn bonuses and upgrades to further customize the Patapon warriors. Music – Captivating and dramatic original music builds dynamically as players march and encounter enemy battles throughout each level. [SCEA]
All critic scores are converted to a 100-point scale. If a critic does not indicate a score, we assign a score based on the general impression given by the text of the review. Learn more... 100
Gaming Age
Rolito's designs really stand out and are a huge part of what makes the game so damn lovable.
 100
Gamers' Temple
Patapon's only drawback is that there aren't enough hours in a day to play as much as you'll want to, and we certainly can't blame Sony for that… or can we?
95
PGNx Media
Patapon is a wonderful experience. It’s a rare novel idea that only comes along so often and shows the potential of the PSP.
94
Ferrago
While the squishy and squashy invention of the PSP's award-winning LocoRoco perhaps comes closest to Patapon in terms of creativity and originality, the genre-straddling ingenuity and intrinsic simplicity of Pyramid/Japan Studios' horrendously addictive rhythm-based, all-action, resource management God game successfully lifts Patapon head and shoulders above most of today's videogames - PSP or otherwise.
93
GameZone
Yes, it is a rhythm-based game, but it is also one of the more engaging and wonderfully unique titles to grace the PSP. It is addictive, it is delightful and it is a lot of fun to play.
92
IGN
Rhythm Game, strategy game, mini-game collection, action game, light RPG – Patapon is all of these and much, much more. It's a genre onto itself, a title that not only exalts in creativity and unique style, it delivers a fun, addictive, engaging experience that keeps you playing over and over again.
92
Game Over Online
It’s fun, vibrant, challenging, charming and rewarding. And the best part, it only costs $20.
92
Cheat Code Central
Patapon is very revolutionary and inventive; it's a one-of-a-kind game no one should miss. Even people who don't usually play RPGs and RTSs will find this game to be a gem.
92
Extreme Gamer
Patapon is true blending of genres creating a unique and special game exclusively on the PSP.
92
Jolt Online Gaming UK
Patapon is far more than just a unique new mix of genres – it’s just so damn charming it could tell you kill a puppy and you would.
91
GamingExcellence
At only twenty dollars, this is likely the greatest gaming value of the year and one of the best PSP games to date.
90
Gaming Target
Singing the rhythm yourself and tapping it out with your foot when your minions let you down demonstrates how hard it is to be a god and how into this game you can become.
90
Boomtown
While far from faultless, this is one game PSP owners cannot afford to miss, and hopefully one that will capture the hearts and minds of developers for years to come.
90
TotalPlayStation
Patapon is just one of those games that you don't see very often. What originally seems like a basic concept is almost constantly being fleshed out with nuance and depth as new songs, items, units and enemies are added with each successive level.
90
Deeko
Overall the game manages to cram all these different game play elements into a single title and makes it work.
90
Gameplanet
While Patapon is not without its frustrations, it’s very difficult to put down. Overall, it’s a charming wee title that is well worth buying.
90
Kikizo
A wonderful game, full of happy happy joy joy from start to finish. If you don't smile at it then you're an idiot, frankly.
90
Pelit (Finland)
The best PSP game in a while. Drumming and chaining your attack, defence, advance and retreat commands is fun and intense. Wonderfully animated and stylish graphics with cheery songs create a great atmosphere and building and improving your troops adds depth to the game. Some of the missions could have used more variety when it comes to the needed tactics. [Apr 2008]
90
NZGamer
Played through quickly, Patapon is an eight hour game which - when played correctly - can be as long as 15 to 20.
90
1UP
It atones for its faults with understated strategic depth, an astounding sense of reward (both literal and whimsical), and an inspired difficulty curve that sticks with you to the end. Along with a beat you'll take to your grave.
90
PTGamers
Patapon is one of the best games on PSP, managing to merge various genres and end up somewhat intricate, far beyond its witty and compelling design.
90
Worth Playing
It's strange, quirky, and basically unlike any other game on the market. It's also incredibly fun. The unusual mix of rhythm and strategy gameplay blends together surprisingly well, and it isn't strange to look up from a session of Patapon only to realize that you've lost a few hours when you only intended to play for five minutes.
90
PALGN
Patapon reminds us that there is still room for originality in gaming. Easily one of the must-have titles on the PSP.
90
Gamer.nl
Patapon steals your heart. Even if you don't like rhythm, tactics or role playing in general. The combination of different factors makes this game a totally new genre, which gives an unique experience. Although the game looks childish with their one-eye-warriors, it's actually quite a challenge to play.
90
Playstation Official Magazine UK
If the songs, utterly charming design and frenzied drumming don't win you over, if the strategy leaves you cold and the battles don't crack a smile, you might want to check that your heart is still beating out its rhythm. [Mar 2008, p.114]
90
GameDaily
With loads of challenge, stylistic visuals and a catchy if not minimalist soundtrack, Patapon succeeds in creating something wonderful.
90
Kombo
With the endearing characters complete with hilarious personality, unforgettable gameplay, depth, style and the all important "X" factor, Patapon only delights.
90
Game Almighty
It's one of the strongest titles I've seen yet for the handheld and, frankly, one of the better games to be released on any platform in quite some time.
90
GameSpot
Patapon's ingenious combination of light real-time strategy and rhythm makes it a one-of-a-kind game that's easy to recommend.
90
Pocket Gamer UK
Charm and originality waft through the air like the rhythmic beats of its fantastic gameplay - Patapon is as close as you can get to portable pleasure without an 'adults only' rating.
90
GamePro
Just try and get the catchy "pata-pata-pata-PON!" chant out of your head once you've given this game a try. You won't be able to do it.
90
PSX Extreme
It is one of the most refreshing titles available for the little unit, and I highly urge everyone to give it a shot. At a mere $20, it won't break anybody's bank, and it'll certainly open your mind up to a world of gaming that you may have never considered before.
88
IGN AU
A charming and compelling hands-off strategy-music-RPG. It's one of the few games on the PSP that really stands out on shelves, mainly because it isn't a port and it's just so darned unique on the platform.
88
Game Informer
As a whole, however, Patapon is an experience not to be missed, and at $20 there's little excuse to let it pass you by. [Mar 2008, p.105]
87
Electronic Gaming Monthly
All serious gamers should check this one out. [Mar 2008, p.85]
86
Games Master UK
An innovative idea that mixes genres but still remains accessible, if head pounding... [Mar 2008, p.69]
86
Play UK
Not quite as enjoyable as "LocoRoco," but containing significantly more depth, Patapon will be immediately accessible to some, but may take a little work with others. Once you're into it though, it's a real blast. [Issue#163, p.76]
85
Maxi Consolas (Portugal)
Behind its simplistic but charming appearance, together with its original rhythm sequences and gameplay, hides a strategy game that can grab you for hours. It shows that there’s always room for creativity in videogames. Just for that, it deserves your full attention. [Feb 2008]
85
GamerNode
It's an odd fusion of the rhythm and strategy genres, but it all comes together so well that players can't help but to be drawn in and strike the drums over and over...and over.
83
Game Revolution
A treat that is as deliciously unique as Rez or Okami comes around once every few years. That one has appeared for the handheld and lasts well over thirty hours is a feat in itself, especially for a $20 budget title.
83
GameShark
Patapon is a bargain for the price. It’s a fun game that combines many genres into one package and is a great reason to dust off the PSP and start playing again – just make sure you have headphones.
81
Gamer 2.0
When it comes down to it, Patapon is a great game that is quirky, charming, and addictive at the same time.
81
PSM3 Magazine UK
Yes, it's monotonous at times but you've never experienced anything like this. Completely unique. [Mar 2008, p.70]
80
EuroGamer
While Patapon has got the same quirky sense of style and visual charm as its predecessor ("LocoRoco"), it doesn't offer the same easy breezy gameplay. Instead, it offers an imposing amount of depth and a considerable amount of micromanagement. Which isn't necessarily a criticism - it's just that forewarned is forearmed.
80
Edge Magazine
The level of personality in the Patapons and their world makes up for any disappointments - and your involvement in their story becomes huge. [Mar 2008, p.99]
80
VideoGamer
The game as a whole doesn't stand up quite as well as "LocoRoco's" brilliant simplicity but it's still a wonderfully original experience.
80
GameSpy
Patapon is like a cleverly designed trojan horse, built to sucker you in with cute graphics and then beat you down with its primal, rhythmic challenge. It's great fun, but you may find it tough to actually play the game on the go considering the amount of attention it requires.
80
Gameplayer
Frustrating, but fascinating. Music with a twist.
80
GotNext
Given the sometimes frustratingly difficult missions, when you do down that boss by the slimmest of margins or push those Zigotons out of another area, it feels like a real accomplishment. It’s these moments when Patapon truly excels.
80
RPG Fan
If you are into both RPGs and rhythm games, you'll definitely enjoy Patapon longer than just enough to get your money's worth out of it.
80
Official Playstation 2 Magazine UK
Gets repetitive after a while, but overall a charming, crazy treat. [Apr 2008, p.107]
80
Gamervision
The cheery music and shiny graphics may be enough to hypnotize you into having a good time and that isn’t really a bad thing.
80
Playstation: The Official Magazine (US)
Patapon may indeed be a game so unusual that it's marching to its own beat, but Japan Studio did such a phenomenal job tying together the control, music and art direction that we recommend grooving right along with that wonderous, delightful beat. [Apr 2008, p.78]
80
AceGamez
I would go so far to say that it's one of the best games on the system. The only reason it didn't score higher is because of its ultimately repetitive nature and its lack of a multiplayer mode.
80
G4 TV
Patapon is manna from heaven for PSP owners.
70
Video Game Talk
The game is solid and even if you struggle at many rhythm games, you will find yourself easily overcoming the learning curve as you drum your Patapon army to victory.
70
Wired
Patapon is a clever spin on the rhythm genre, and the tiny characters are simply adorable. Leveling up your warriors can be quite trying, but the game's charm and refreshing adaptation of established mechanics make such transgressions forgivable.
70
NTSC-uk
Patapon is one of the PSP's more original and interesting titles of late.
70
games(TM)
Patapon really feels like a new experience. The seductive façade is a clever mask for an enormously challenging game that requires a substantial amount of grinding and micromanagement to master. [Mar 2008, p.116]
65
Destructoid
The game is just as prone to causing misery as it is happiness, as I discovered early on when my axe-wielders had been killed off and I was left with only ranged attackers who fell, one by one, to close quarters enemies that they just couldn't hit.
Phil J. gave it a6: Colby A. gave it a10: Eli dob? gave it a10: Chris O gave it a9: gamer123 321remag gave it a0: KC gave it a9: Matt Jakes gave it a7: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 |
|
 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Popular on CBS sites: Fantasy Football | Miley Cyrus | MLB | iPhone 3G | GPS | Recipes | Shwayze | NFL
About CNET Networks | Jobs | Advertise
© 2008 CNET Networks, Inc., a CBS Company. All rights reserved. | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use
