Patapon is a 2D
rhythm/
strategy game in which you control a tribe of small creatures called "Patapon." The Patapon all cluster together in a single advancing group, and are broken down into three different types: cavalry, infantry and ranged. The game progresses by banging out the war drum tunes that appear on screen in the correct sequence. Each drum is tied to a specific button on the
PSP. When the tune is successfully played, your army's speed and power is raised. Divided into a series of missions, the game becomes progressively more difficult as you move forward, while you are simultaneously given access to stronger Patapon, weapons and items.