Video game review: 'Patapon' weirdly entertaining

Game title: "Patapon"

Platform: PSP

Studio: Sony Computer Entertainment

Rating: E-for Everyone

Game score: 8.5

The Review

Game play:

It's hard to describe "Patapon." Words fail to capture just how unique, and weird, this game is. Think of it as a rhythm game crossed with cave art left by aliens.

You play the role of the Patapon god. You communicate with your followers using the beats of four types of drums. Certain drumbeat combinations mean certain things: attack, defend, retreat and others.

As a race, Patapons aren't going to win any beauty contests. They're black eyeballs with tiny legs and arms. But don't let their appearance fool you, these are aggressive warriors bent on marching to their promised land, Earthend.

Playing the game is deceptively simple. Pound the four buttons to the game's beat, which is represented by the flashing border around the screen. If your tempo is off, your Patapons will lose their groove and either fall over asleep or just look at you blinking.

Once you have your beat going, you can command your soldiers to march forward and attack enemies or monsters. Keep up a steady beat and you'll enter fever mode, where your little guys become very aggressive and more powerful.

There are various minigames embedded in the story where you can play for special items or to cast a spell to make it rain, among other things.

Graphics:

The game sports a unique style that looks like shadows on a cave wall come to life. Although this sounds simplistic, the animation itself is really done well. The detail of your soldiers reflects each weapon and enhancement you've chosen. Monsters look scary and intimidating as they tower over your little eyeball army.

Audio: