Patapon 2

The core gameplay of Patapon 2 is almost identical to its predecessor. It is a video game that the player controls in a manner similar to rhythm games. The player is directly controlled by a tribe of Patapon warriors; to command the warriors, the player inputs specific sequences using the face buttons on the PSP, each representing a "talking drum", in time to a drum rhythm. These sequences order the tribe to move forward on the linear battlefield, attack, defend, and other actions.

If the player inputs an unknown sequence or enters them off the main rhythm, the tribe will become confused and stop whatever they are doing. However, repeatedly entering a proper sequence in sync with the rhythm will lead the tribe into a "Fever" increasing their attack and defensive bonuses. The tribe will stop doing anything after performing the last entered command if the player does not enter any more commands. ), which makes them attack.

The story continues from the previous game. The ship the Patapons and Zigotons have constructed has been finally completed and they have set sail for new lands. On their way there, they are attacked by a Kraken who easily defeats them and sends the Patapons into the ocean to be washed ashore in a strange new land (which is actually and originally their homeland, the Patapolis) where they come up against another tribe called the Karmen. Now it is a battle to defeat the Karmen and find out who is their true enemy.

Early in the game, the Patapons discover the mysterious "Hero", who wears a mask that boosts his abilities. He has lost his memory, and his true identity is forgotten, hidden, and unknown. Later, the Patapons fight against the Akumapons, and the "Dark One" (who is actually Makoton, the Zigoton that was killed in the first game with Baban, and now was reincarnated), who gave his soul to the demons for power. Gong the Hawkeye and his fellow Zigotons appear once more, to assist the Patapons against the Karmen.

Patapon 2 was developed by Pyramid and produced by Japan Studio. Game designer Hiroyuki Kotani began the development of Patapon 2 during the localization development of its predecessor. During this time, he was approached by producer Junichi Yoshizawa to create a multiplayer version of Patapon. Initially Kotani disapproved multiplayer but would regret not adding it in the original version after seeing an online bulletin criticizing the lack of multiplayer.

In addition to multiplayer, Kotani received requests for Patapon to have more customization and longer gameplay time. 5. The bird-riding Toripons introduced in Patapon 2 were initially planned for its predecessor, Patapon. Kemmei Adachi returns as the composer for the game and would write down Kotani's instructions after they both finished surfing together.

By the first week of release, Patapon 2 was ranked #1 top-selling PSP game of North America. Famitsu inducted the game onto their Gold Hall of Fame. IGN awarded the game for "Best Action Game" and for "PSP Game of the Year".

Multiple reviewers questioned whether Patapon 2 fit the definition of a "sequel". PlayStation Official Magazine – Australia initially compared it to downloadable content, reporting that the game continues directly where its predecessor ended and doesn't make any changes to the core gameplay. However, concluded the review describing it as a true sequel, and having little to criticize. PlayStation Official Magazine – UK also noted that the game was similar to its predecessor but felt it was ludicrous to criticize the game for lack of originality.