PaRappa the Rapper

Overview

PaRappa the Rapper is a rhythm video game developed by NanaOn-Sha and published by Sony Computer Entertainment for the PlayStation. It was originally released in Japan in 1996 and worldwide in 1997. Created by music producer Masaya Matsuura in collaboration with artist Rodney Greenblat, the game features unique visual design and rap-based gameplay and is considered to be the first true rhythm game. It was ported to the PlayStation Portable in 2006 in celebration of its 10-year anniversary. A remastered version of the original PlayStation game was released for PlayStation 4 in 2017 for the game's twentieth anniversary.

PaRappa the Rapper was acclaimed by critics, who praised its music, story, animation, and gameplay, though its short length was criticized. Several publications list it as one of the best video games ever made. It spawned two follow-up titles; a guitar-based spin-off titled Um Jammer Lammy, released in 1999 for the PlayStation, and a direct sequel, PaRappa the Rapper 2, released for the PlayStation 2 in 2001. The game was also influential in setting the basic template for the rhythm game genre, including franchises such as the Bemani and Harmonix games.

Official trailer

Trailer. Watch on YouTube

Screenshots

Game details

Genres

Music

Developer

NanaOn-Sha

Publisher

Sony Computer Entertainment

Series

PaRappa the Rapper

Platforms

PlayStation Portable

Modes

Single player

Yes

Local multiplayer

No

Online multiplayer

No

Co op

No

Release dates

Space and patches

Space neededAbout 313 MB

Playable today

Playable offline todayYes

Single-player only, with no online features.

Online

Plays offlineYes

Credits

Region

US

Time to beat

about 4 hours