Big news for rhythm and roguelite fans. Remember Patapon? The creative minds behind it, led by Hiroyuki Kotani, are back with something fresh.
Ratatan, a brand-new rhythm roguelite, launched on Steam Early Access on July 25, 2025. Hopefully, you gave it a shot after reading, as it’s the kind of game that hooks you fast, especially if you’re into timing your chaos to a beat. Even the demo packs enough charm and challenge to make you hit replay more than once.
What Is Ratatan?
Ratatan is a charming, chaotic, and tactical rhythm-based roguelite action game, blending beat-based commands with deep strategic control. Developed by Ratata Arts and TVT Co., Ltd., it lets you play solo or in 4-player online co-op, leading quirky creatures called Ratatans through side-scrolling musical mayhem. If you loved Patapon, you’ll feel right at home but with way more freedom and complexity.
You’ll guide your army of Cobuns, position your troops, time commands to the beat, and choose when to press forward or fall back.
Gameplay Highlights
The action is fast and explosive, featuring massive brawls with over 100 characters fighting on screen, all synced to an infectious soundtrack. Music is composed by veteran Kemmei Adachi, with a special guest track by David Wise. You can preview the game’s style and music right now thanks to a five-song soundtrack demo available on Steam.
The demo, released on June 25, 2025, includes two playable levels:
- World 1: “Pirates of the Parabbean”
- World 2: “Yeehawler Mountain”
You’ll also get access to four playable Ratatans, each with unique mechanics and playstyles. Best of all, online multiplayer for up to four players is fully functional in the demo.
A Fan-Funded Success
Ratatan is one of the most successful crowdfunding stories in recent years. In August 2023, it raised over ¥210 million (around $1.5 million USD) on Kickstarter, becoming the most-funded video game campaign of the year and ranking among the Top 25 all-time on the platform.
The community interest has stayed strong. The game hit 100,000 wishlists on Steam by February 2025 and passed 300,000 by June. These numbers highlight just how much anticipation is building ahead of launch.
Full Game Plans and Platforms
After its Early Access launch, Ratatan is scheduled to release on multiple platforms including: PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.
While the final release date is officially listed as TBD (2025), some retail listings suggest a placeholder of December 31, 2025. Game Source Entertainment, a Hong Kong-based publisher with a track record of over 100 games, is managing global publishing.
The game will include comprehensive language support for both text and full voiceovers, including English, Japanese, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Korean, and Portuguese.
System Requirements
Want to make sure your PC is ready for the rhythm-fueled chaos? Here’s what you’ll need:
Minimum
- 64-bit processor and OS
- Windows 10
- Dual Core 2.4 GHz
- 8 GB RAM
- GeForce GTX 950, Radeon R7 360, or Intel HD Graphics 630
- 10 GB available space
- Broadband internet connection
Recommended
- Windows 11
- Quad Core 2.4 GHz
- 16 GB RAM
- GeForce RTX 2060, Radeon RX 5600 XT, or Intel Arc A580
- 10 GB storage
The World of Ratatan
Rataport is the island home of the Ratatans, whimsical animal-like beings who dream of reaching The Everafter, a mysterious place where The Goddess is said to dwell. Though each one looks different, they all share the same goal. Guided by hope, the Ratatans start a dangerous and emotional journey. The roguelite structure fits perfectly. No matter how many times they fail, they get back up and try again.
Why It Stands Out
Ratatan nails that sweet spot between old-school rhythm action and modern roguelite chaos. It’s looser and more flexible than Patapon ever was, giving you more room to mess around in combat. And with co-op in the mix, it turns the beat into full-on multiplayer mayhem. But what really hits? The story has actual heart. You’re not just smashing buttons to a beat but you care about what’s happening.
It’s charming, strategic, unpredictable and might be one of the most promising indies we’ve seen this year.