 FOSTER CITY, CA. (Top40 Charts/ Sony Computer Entertainment America) - Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. (SCEA) announced today the North American release of PaRappa The Rapper, an iconic character-based music and hip-hop game, available in July 2007 for PSP (PlayStationPortable). Developed by Sony Computer Entertainment, in association with legendary multimedia musician Masaya Matsuura and famed New York artist Rodney Greenblat, the PaRappa The Rapper franchise debuted 10 years ago on the original PlayStation and is widely credited with establishing the music and rhythm game genre that continues to thrive today. PaRappa The Rapper for the PSP system mobilizes PaRappa's hip- hop adventures and builds on the success of this iconic franchise. Featuring all the characters, levels and songs from the original, PaRappa The Rapper increases the franchise's social appeal by offering a host of new PSP exclusive features, including the ability for up to four PSP systems to go head-to-head in ad-hoc battles; wirelessly share a demo level through Game Share; and use the PSP Infrastructure Mode to download eight additional playable remixes for players to rap along to. "Bringing PaRappa The Rapper to PSP allows true PlayStation fans to re- connect with this timeless classic," said John Koller, Senior Marketing Manager, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "This also introduces the beloved PaRappa and his cast of colorful friends to a new generation of fans and potential hip-hop stars on the move." PaRappa The Rapper for the PSP system stays true to its stylish flattened animation technique and gameplay, combining fun and vibrant characters with hip music and a humorous storyline. Masaya Matsuura's infectious music and lyrics accompany PaRappa as he attempts to rap his way into the heart of his dreamy love interest, Sunny Funny, through various musical adventures. Using a rhythm, timing and coordination-based gameplay mechanic, players will bob their heads along with PaRappa and a cast of vibrant characters as they master its addictive gameplay. Players will first have to harmoniously press a designated controller button to help PaRappa mimic the actions and lyrics of the Masters. As the player's skill level progresses, they will be able to break free into a one-of-a-kind freestyle session, giving them the freedom to create a new experience with each play. The independent Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) has rated PaRappa The Rapper "E" for "Everybody." For more information about the ESRB, please visit https://www.esrb.org .
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