First of all, Parappa The Rapper 2 is in reality the third game in the Parrappa series, not the second. The second game was actually the little known gem of a game, Um Jammer Lammy. Some might say that Um Jammer Lammy isn't part of the Parappa series, but in my book, it definitely is. Um Jammer Lammy features the same engine, the same graphics, and even let's you play as Parappa once you beat the game as Lammy. It's a sequel alright.
Anyways, as for the game itself, it shouldn't surprise you in the least. It's the same old Parappa formula, use the given buttons as a guide to freestyle rap your way to victory. As far as I can tell, it is the same engine for determining score and rating, except that it now shows meters that rate you in three different categories (accuracy, freestlyle, and groove) for each phrase. I can honestly say, after all this time playing Parappa, I still haven't begun to figure out how the bloody game scores you. The engine has such a complex method of judging you on each line that I don't think anybody could truly master this game. Of course, this can be looked at as an advantage or disadvantage. Personally, I think it serves to keep the game fresh and to keep new players interested.
The graphics in the new Parappa are the same as always, papery cartoon characters in a 3D cartoon world. Although some people might complain, I think the graphics fit this game very well. The mouths also move pretty realistically which is a pleasant bonus. Overall, the graphics get the job done and can also be fun to watch in some of the levels.
The music is obviously one of the biggest parts of the game. And for the biggest part of the game, I think the songs could have been much better. Not to mention the fact that there was an unexcusable lack of them (only eight!). It's the PS2 for heaven's sake, there is no longer a memory shortage on the CD's! Almost all the songs in the previous games were great and had very catchy tunes and lyrics. As for this game, some of the songs are pretty catchy but definitely not to the same degree as the previous games. And with only eight songs, they're bound to get old fast. And if you're looking for real rap, don't look here because all of the songs have fairly childish lyrics with random themes such as cooking burgers or cutting hair.
Personally, I'm glad they didn't try to make the songs serious, it would have seriously cramped the game's style. And for all you fans of the previous games, don't worry, Chop Chop Master Onion is back with a brand new song!
One of the games biggest problems is the multiplayer. It sucks. I don't know what they were thinking when they devised the worthless multiplayer system in this game. All the multiplayer consists of is you and a friend rapping the same phrase over and over again. If one person manages to get a positive score on the phrase, it changes to whatever button combination they used. This makes it very hard to get a positive score after three rounds or so. In other words, if you're in the mood to have a day in which you don't throw the controller your TV and attack your friend, don't play the multiplayer.
I have only one question about the story, what were they smoking? OK, here is the synopsis of the story: An evil corporation is turning all the food in the city into noodles. Since Parappa had just won a lifetime supply of noodles in a contest and is sick of them, he goes crazy when he sees all the noodles. Thus begins his quest to stop the takeover of noodles. I don't think I need to continue. Of course in the true Parappa style, he progresses through the city and meets all sorts of crazy people who either try to help or hinder him in his journey. And he must win a rap-off with each of them to progress to the next area. But hey, I'm not complaining. Again, I think an attempt at seriousness here would put a damper on the game's style.
Overall, this game is definitely worth renting. You can play for at least a good ten hours and have a fun time. But if you're not into rhythm button pushing type games, then this game isn't for you. And as for the eternal question, "Do I have to play the prequel(s) before I play the new one?" I think the answer is obvious for this one, hell no, it will add absolutely nothing to the gameplay or story to play the previous games. If they ever do make another Parappa, I think it will be time to finally make some serious changes to the gameplay. They managed to make three games in the series while still keeping the gameplay fun and exiting, but I think a fourth in the exact same style would be crossing the line. So anyways, good luck and happy rapping!
|
