Patapon is a rhythm-strategy game developed by SCE Japan Studio, released in 2007 for the PlayStation Portable and later the PlayStation Vita. Players command a small tribal army called the Patapons by inputting rhythmic drumbeat sequences in real time using the face buttons, with the timing of these inputs directly dictating the army's actions on the battlefield. Across more than 30 missions set against colorful 2D backdrops spanning over 20 distinct environments, the focus shifts between resource gathering, army management, and combat. The roster of warrior types includes archers, infantry, and cavalry, among others, all unlockable as the tribe grows in strength. A customization system featuring more than 100 weapon and shield upgrades allows players to tailor their forces to suit different strategic approaches. The blend of music-game mechanics with real-time strategy gives the title a distinctive identity within both genres.
