Patapon review

Patapon is the cheapest game on this list and one of the most original on the system. Sony released it in North America on February 26, 2008 at an MSRP of $19.99, and a used UMD now lists at $14.99 before sales at DKOldies. You play a drum-wielding leader: combinations of button-timed drumbeats tell the Patapon tribe to march, retreat, attack, defend, charge or use magic in real time. Sony's release lists more than 30 missions, unit types such as archers, infantry and cavalry, more than 100 weapon and shield upgrades and five music-based mini-games. French artist Rolito designed the characters and served as chief artist. It is rated E. The rhythm controls are the whole game, so anyone who struggles with timing will find the early missions hard, and building a stronger army means repeating hunts. For everyone else it is a strong, low-cost addition to a PSP or PPSSPP library.

Who it is for

Players who want something no other console had, at the lowest price on this list.

Price

Used PSP UMD from $14.99 at DKOldies (regular price, before sales).

Original price: $14.99
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 10, 2026.

Key features

• Drumbeat combinations command troops to march, retreat, attack, defend, charge and use magic
• More than 30 missions against the Zigoton army and large bosses
• Archers, infantry, cavalry and other unit types to add to your army
• More than 100 weapon and shield upgrades
• Five music-based mini-games that earn items

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Cheapest pick here at $14.99 used
• Strength: Rated E for Everyone
• Strength: Art style by French artist Rolito stands out on any screen
• Weakness: Rhythm timing takes practice before missions click
• Weakness: Grinding for upgrades can slow the middle of the game
• Weakness: Players who dislike music games may bounce off it

Key facts

• Developer: SCE Worldwide Studios, Japan Studio
• Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment America
• North American release: February 26, 2008
• ESRB: Everyone (Mild Cartoon Violence)
• Launch price: $19.99 MSRP

Where it ranks

Patapon is No. 4 in our Best PSP Games of All Time verdict.