The popular Japanese rhythm game Taiko no Tatsujin, a series that has predominantly appeared on Sony consoles, could soon be coming to the DS here in the West. With the series already hugely popular on the Nintendo system over in Japan, Bandai Namco sat down with gaming site Cubed3 to talk about the series.

Crazy Japanese rhythm games might not be the best fit for the Western market, but Bandai Namco are willing to give it a go. The developer has been talking about the hugely successful series and discussing the possibility of it coming to the West. No idea what it is all about? Read on for an explanation from the man behind the series:

Cubed³: For those that do not know about the Taiko no Tatsujin franchise, could you please explain about how it works and why you think people are so addicted to the series?

Mr. Ken Nakadate, Producer of the “Taiko no Tatsujin” franchise: “Taiko no Tatsujin” is a game concerning a Japanese traditional percussion instrument, called “Wadaiko (Taiko),” and uses drum sticks, called “Bachi,” to co-operate with the music that is being played. The franchise is originally from the arcade version, and “Taiko no Tatsujin” has now been released on Nintendo DS. We believe that the reason many users, across generations and regardless of sex, enjoy the game is that the gameplay is unique and intuitive; just touching the face (“Men”) and edge (“Fuchi”) of the Taiko drum with the exclusive touch pen, “Bachi Pen.” It also contains a lot of hit songs, including J-POP and cartoon theme songs.

So, what are the chances of the series coming to the West?

C3: Rhythm games have been extremely popular in the West, including the Bandai Namco-developed Donkey Kong series, as well as the extremely Japanese-themed Elite Beat Agents. Given this fact, will either DS Taiko no Tatsujin or the forthcoming Wii game be considered for a US or European release?

KN: We want the customers in Europe and US to enjoy the Japanese Taiko drum. The schedule for US or European releases is undecided but we would release them if we receive a lot of requests from US and European customers!

The game contains all sorts of music from J-POP, anime, classical, nursery rhymes, game music, folk songs and even tracks from Bandai Namco games. So, a bit of something for everyone it would seem. Still not sure what it is all about? Well, why not check out the Japanese trailer for the game below:

How wonderfully odd. Would certainly be interesting to see the game in the West. What do you think? Share your views below…