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Man, that’s one big box. That’s the first thing I thought when the large Taiko Drum Master box arrived on my desk, complete with the titular taiko drums. Namco recently developed another drum-based game – Donkey Konga for Gamecube – and it seemingly got a kick out of it and hence the PlayStation 2 receiving its own take on the genre.
The game’s main mode has you (loudly) banging the taiko drum in numerous sides – its rim and surface each of which contain two registrable sides – as you’re bombarded with onscreen notes and you frantically try to keep up with the game. The game doesn’t take itself too seriously, as you’ll also see the cute little cast of characters merrily dance to your charming music. There are a few minigames included here and there for the game, all of which can be played in splitscreen with a friend.
As I mentioned above, the drum is big, (sort-of) bulky and very loud, but it is pretty enjoyable and does register your strokes well. Nonetheless, it is heavily recommended to play the game either on the floor or on a table since the lap isn’t the most comfortable position. The game can also be played with the Dual Shock, but since those big drums are included, you might as well make use of them.
Visually, the game is straightforward and has a clean, simple look. The technical portions aren’t particularly demanding of the PS2, as expected given the genre. The game’s style is very appealing though, as I mentioned above, and the cast of characters are memorable.
The game is largely based in audio, and includes a complete soundtrack of rock and pop to please a large audience. It is incredibly varied and you’ll undoubtedly find a few songs you will love, but also a fair share of songs you can live without.
Taiko Drum Master is a fun rhythm game, and its taiko drum peripheral is clever and fun for numerous runs. That said, unless you’re particularly a strong fan of the genre or simply wanted a drum game for your PS2; it’s a tad difficult to recommend the $60 price tag. Especially, since another set of drums (ideal for multiplayer) will set you back another $30 or so. -- Michael Taylor, PGNx Media
---- Nov 15, 2004
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