PaRappa the Rapper

PaRappa the Rapper

Considered revolutionary in its day, is no more than an update to the classic 1980's game of "Simon" a.k.a "Simon Says". Simon? as you will know is a circular electronic game featuring four coloured quadrants. The game will flash quadrants in turn and expect you to repeat the sequence. If you get the sequence correct the game will respond with a longer sequence. PaRappa the Rapper (available on only the Sony PlayStation) demands that you not only get the sequence correct but also the TIMING. But instead of simply light-and-beeps that Simon? has to offer, PaRappa the Rapper provides snatches of spoken vocals (raps) that are triggered when the appropriate buttons are pressed. Pressing the buttons in the correct order, with the correct timing, provides an intelligible imitation of rap - pressing the buttons in an incorrect order or with lousy timing rewards the player with nothing more than unintelligble garbage. Points are awarded for correctness and 'style'. PaRappa the Rapper has been criticised for being 'too short' (entire game can be completed in under an hour). While the gameplay was simplistic, the game is remembered for its wacky graphic design, excellent soundtrack, and tripped-out plot.

Spawned a sequel, [UmJammer Lammy]?. PaRappa the Rapper is regarded as being the first 'modern' popular rhythm game.