Taiko: Drum Master
© 2004 Namco
Like Donkey Konga, this package combines playing a drum with a game, resulting in an outstanding musical/rhythmic learning experience for all ages. The drum is a model of a Taiko, a traditional Japanese folk drum that is about the size of a dinner plate— easy to hold between your knees. By tapping on the drum with large plastic drum sticks, you earn points by correctly hitting four areas (the left and right drum head surface, and the left and right drum rims) in time with the music. The result is a clever drumming tutorial that is easy enough for a young child to use, yet challenging enough to keep the interest of a professional drummer. Testers quickly learned the technique, combining acrobatic moves while playing the drum. There is no audio input for claps, like Donkey Konga. The beta version that we tested contained a library of 27 well-selected songs; we were pleased to see classical selections like Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 mixed in with the Jimmy Neutron Theme Song. The music quality is excellent, especially if you have a good stereo or headphones. Other content includes three mini-games. There is a two player mode, provided you have a second drum -- or you can "drum" on a regular controller with your thumbs, but the experience obviously isn't the same. Also note, the drum does not use batteries -- it is powered from the PS2. Weaknesses include a bit of a learning curve to figure out the menus using the drum as controller, and there's an annoyingly perky narrator. Also, the onscreen graphics don't add much to the experience. All in all, though, this is an outstanding learning experience; a great way for an elementary age child to pick up some rhythm.
$59.99, PlayStation 2
Teaches: music, rhythm