PATAPON 1+2 Replay Review

PATAPON 1+2 Replay marks the return of the beloved rhythm-strategy franchise, remastered for the current generation after its cult success on the PSP and subsequently on the PS4. Both titles are centered around the Patapons, a strange tribe of creatures guided by an unseen deity on a perilous march toward Earthend in search of the elusive “IT.”

The game tasks players with leading the Patapons into battle and survival by following a signature four-beat drum sequence. Each input, mapped to specific buttons, triggers rhythmic commands that drive movement, attacks, and defenses. Along their journey, the Patapons must overcome deadly beasts, rival factions, and the harsh natural elements scattered across their homeland.

To The Beat of The Drum

As mentioned, PATAPON 1+2 Replay is a next-generation remaster, not a full remake nor an expanded edition with new content. Instead, players can expect modern enhancements, most notably significantly reduced load times that allow both titles to jump straight into the action.

Core gameplay remains intact across both entries, built around the franchise’s iconic four-beat rhythm. Each face button corresponds to a specific drum sound, with circle being Pon, square being Pata, triangle being Chaka, and cross being Don.

Inputting these in rhythmic patterns issues commands to your Patapons, whether it’s advancing with “Pata-Pata-Pata-Pon” or attacking with “Pon-Pon-Pata-Pon.” Additional sequences enable defensive stances or trigger environmental spells, requiring quick reflexes and rhythmic precision to maintain the game’s flow and momentum.

While the fundamental systems haven’t changed, the catchy beat remains as engaging as ever. Whether you’re returning from the PSP era or experiencing the game on a current-gen platform like the PS5, the title’s signature rhythm-loop continues to deliver accessible, rewarding gameplay throughout its short but satisfying runtime.

Maintaining the rhythm builds up the fever gauge, powering up your units for stronger attacks and faster movement, especially useful when clearing obstacles or pushing through enemies that block your path to reaching your goal.

Patapon 2 handles this mechanic more smoothly, but Patapon 1 does suffer from minor input lag that may disrupt timing. While not game-breaking, it’s a noticeable hiccup that negatively affects players, especially detrimental to a game that requires timing.

Searching For IT

Between the two titles, Patapon 2 serves as the more engaging experience, building upon the lore and mechanics established in the first game. While I had previously dabbled with the series on the PSP, it’s only now that I’ve come to appreciate the depth and charm of the franchise fully.

Progression across stages encourages replayability, allowing players to revisit levels to farm for loot and strengthen their units. Rare gear boosts attack and defense stats, granting your Patapons the edge needed to overcome tougher enemies and rival tribes.

Loot also serves a practical purpose as it expands your army by creating new units. Even if you lose Patapons in battle, collecting their hats ensures you can revive them and send them back into the fray. Patapon 2 introduces Hero Units, specialized leaders with customizable stats that make them ideal units for the game’s most crucial moments.

Additionally, multiplayer portals offer a refreshing twist, letting up to four local co-op players sync to the beat and tackle custom levels together.

The game also features minigames and subquests that break up the monotonous march, offering some distraction that offers a peek into the Patapons’ world. Whether new or returning, players will find plenty to enjoy in this charming title.

PATAPON 1+2 Replay is packed with surprises for first-time explorers and a healthy dose of nostalgia for returning fans. Though each entry is relatively short, they’re entertaining and engaging that celebrate rhythm and strategy through a unique gameplay experience.

Verdict: Buy It!

PATAPON 1+2 Replay offers a charming experience for newcomers who are trying out the rhythm-strategy genre for the first time, and a nostalgic return for longtime fans of the franchise. Its approachable gameplay and lighthearted tone make it a worthwhile adventure regardless of skill level.

With Ratatan just over the horizon, now is the perfect time to catch the beat. The iconic four-beat loop remains as addictive as ever, and it is guaranteed to get your rhythm instincts marching.

*PATAPON 1+2 Replay was reviewed on the PS5 with a review code provided by the publisher.