PaRappa The Rapper 2
© 2002 Sony Computer Entertainment America
This unique program combines adventure with rap music. Rap star PaRappa is joined by his paper-thin, colorful friends like rappin' Sensei, Chop Chop Master Onion and Lammy. We found Masaya Matsuura's rap music and lyrics irresistible but the gameplay repetitive and often too challenging. Kids TRY to work their way through eight levels of the humorous adventure by imitating sequences on the PlayStation 2 controller. Actions must correspond to the beat of the music. Incorrect timing results in the status meter moving from "good" to "bad" to "awful", and noticeable changes in the music and graphics reflect the players performance. While sequences start out fairly easy, they quickly become more difficult (and fast!), making it tough to get past the third level without persistence. Multiplayer modes are available, making this a nice family game. For rap lovers, this is a must-have product.
$49.99, PlayStation 2
Teaches: music, beat, timing, coordination