Patapon 1+2 Replay, A Tiny But Comprehensive Review

Remember Patapon? Those little guys with spears, drums, and more rhythm than the average party in Ibiza? Well, they're back – and in a double package for PC, PS5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, under the new name: Patapon 1+2 Replay. This isn't just a game, it's a trip down memory lane for those who missed it in the PSP era. Now you can spam the Pata-pata-pata-PON sequence in your head on the train or the toilet. The question is whether this Replay package recycles nostalgia or truly has something to offer both new and old fans of the Rhythm God.

If you want to play something a little bit more complicated, check out our Civilization 7 review!

What is Patapon 1+2 Replay all about?

For the uninitiated – Patapon is a rhythmic strategy game where you command an army of little eyes with legs, giving them instructions with drumming commands: "Pata-pata-pata-pon" for marching forward, "Pon-pon-pata-pon" for attacking, "Chaka-chaka-pata-pon" for defence, etc. 

Essentially, you're the Drum God – you don't see your troops, but you lead them through deserts, forests, snowy landscapes, and boss battles by drumming the rhythm into their ears. If you mess up the rhythm, chaos ensues. However, if you hit the perfect rhythm, you enter 'Fever Mode'. In this mode, your Patapon armies start crushing everything like they're on steroids, moving faster and dealing more damage, adding an extra layer of excitement to the gameplay.

This formula still bursts with charm. Although they're essentially PSP games from 2007 and 2008, Patapon 1 and Patapon 2 in this Replay compilation look and function like something born for the Switch. Rhythmic Joy-Con controls, portability, quick Sleep mode – it's like this was always meant to be their home. The charm of leading your unseen troops through deserts, forests, snowy landscapes, and boss battles by drumming the rhythm into their ears is truly unique and captivating.

Patapon 1+2 Replay Is More Than Just a Remaster

Although it may seem like Replay is just a combination of two already known remasters (which already existed on PS4), there's more love and attention here than you'd expect. To start, the UI and "quality of life" features are significantly improved. This means faster loading times, more straightforward menu navigation, more readable unit equipment, and inventory management. Additionally, there's a "dual soundtrack" option. You can choose between the original PSP tracks and an "orchestrated" remix version, which adds a new atmosphere to some songs.

Fever mode with a symphony in the background? Perfect. Auto-save and stage rewind options are something that will save the nerves of many forgetful generals. Finally, for true fans, there's a gallery and encyclopedia. You can finally find out why the Zigotonians are always so grumpy. Unfortunately, what Replay doesn't bring is a new story or exclusive missions—no third party in the package. There is no online co-op in Patapon 2, which was a PSP exclusive. So – Replay is a luxurious edition of old hits, not a "new game".

From Patapon 1 to Patapon 2 and the Timeless Art Style

Patapon 1 is more straightforward; you go from mission to mission, unlock new units (spearmen, archers, cavalry), farm materials, and evolve your army through the 'Tree of Life'. This unique feature allows you to customize and upgrade your units, adding a strategic element to the game. The game is quite strict and will often force the player to repeat old missions until they grind enough materials to summon new warriors.

Patapon 2 is a real upgrade – new heroic units with special powers arrive, more troop types, deeper strategy, and more diverse enemies. Everything feels more fluid and mature. Battles are still tense – a combination of memory, rhythm, and tactics. No auto-battlers, no skip options. If you mess up the drumbeat, the boss will eat you for dinner like leftovers from a Swedish table at a good wedding. Along with that comes a soundtrack that still rings in your ears while you're buying bread.

The black-and-white style of Patapon is so distinctive that it remains unmatched today. Replay utilizes sharp HD sprites and animations that appear to have been drawn yesterday. No pixelation, everything is crystal clear, and that tribal style has retained its charm. Music? Rhythmic heaven. From basic drumming to percussive sections that get under your skin – Replay is a love letter to sound. If you're not humming "Pon-pon-pata-pon" while washing dishes, you haven't played the game right.

Who is Patapon 1+2 Replay For? 

Many are wondering who this game is for. To start, there are at least three target groups: The first group is players who played Patapon 15 years ago and enjoyed its flavour. If you belong to them, buy this immediately. This is a nostalgic trip like you've never experienced before. The second group is those who have never played this masterpiece. If you belong to them, Replay is the perfect introduction to the series.

You no longer have to hunt down a PSP with a UMD disc. The third group would be fans of rhythm games. For you, this is an exceptional experience because, if you appreciate rhythm and strategy, and don't want another indie roguelike with a sea of pixels, Patapon Replay calls you to battle.

Patapon 1+2 Replay isn't a revolution but an evolution of a legendary formula, adapted for the modern player. The PC port is flawless, everything is smooth, visually beautiful, and rhythmically infectious. Unfortunately, Patapon 3 is missing. There's also no new content that could blow away old fans. But it's clear that at the heart of this package beats the pure magic of primal playability, proving that creativity and rhythm are more potent than photorealistic graphics and 100 hours of open-world boredom. This game has grown with us and is still as relevant and enjoyable as ever. 

That's proof that creativity and rhythm are more potent than photorealistic graphics and 100 hours of open-world boredom. Hrrrrk! So grab your drumsticks, paint yourself with warrior colours, and get ready to connect simple commands into a perfect dance of war. PATA-PATA-PATA-PON!

In Conclusion

No need for a lot of words here. Patapon is a game that takes you back to the old creative days, showing how everything used to be driven by quality creative energy, not just financial reports. Don't miss this!

Rating: 8.5/10

The game received this grade due to its unique blend of rhythm and strategy, improved UI and quality of life features, and faithful remastering of the original games. However, it was docked points for lacking new content and the absence of Patapon 3.

Recommended age: 10+

I recommend this game to kids aged 10 and above due to its rhythm-based gameplay, strategic elements, and cute tribal style. However, parents should be aware that the game can be challenging and requires timing and coordination.