On October 15, Game Source Entertainment officially released *Ratatan*, developed by Ratata Arts, for PC (Steam), PS5, Nintendo Switch 2, and Xbox Series X|S.
A spiritual sequel to *Patapon* where you command your minions to the beat
This title is a rhythm roguelike action game with game design by Hiroyuki Kotani, the creator of *Patapon*.
The main character, “Ratatan,” leads his companions, the “Kobun,” as they venture through an unknown world.
While Ratatan moves around by walking and jumping, players command the Kobun to attack and guard by inputting commands in time with the rhythm. The game also features roguelike elements where players build their setups by combining “Ratacarta” cards obtained between stages, and supports cooperative play for up to four players online.
This title, which was crowdfunded on Kickstarter, has been available in Early Access on Steam since September 2025. The official release was originally scheduled for July 16, 2026, but was postponed to October 15 to incorporate feedback from the Early Access version, and it has now finally been released.
Game*Spark is currently featuring a play report based on an early hands-on with the full version. The report covers the hectic pace of simultaneously executing rhythm inputs and 2D action, as well as the satisfying synergy created by the “Ratakarta” mechanic.
The story reaches its climax in Version 1.0. User reviews are “very positive.”
The official release includes new Episodes 3 and 4. The final world and a powerful boss await, allowing you to see the Ratatan’s story through to its conclusion.
Additionally, all of the arch-enemies, the “Dark Ratatans,” who have appeared one by one so far, have finally gathered together. Furthermore, various features have been added and specifications improved to ensure a smoother gaming experience.
Please refer to the official release notes for details on the new features and bug fixes.
As of this writing, the Nintendo Switch 2 version has earned a Metascore of 76 (based on 8 reviews) on Metacritic. The game appears to be praised for its addictive combination of rhythm action—inherited from *Patapon*—and roguelike elements.
On Steam, where the Early Access version was available, user reviews are overall “Very Positive” (85% positive out of approximately 2,500 reviews).
Message from the Key Staff
Game Designer: Hiroyuki Kotani
“I never imagined finishing this game would be so dramatic! I never imagined I’d be so happy to finally deliver it to everyone who’s been eagerly awaiting its release! Honestly, we’ve been through a lot. I’m deeply moved that we’ve reached this moment where both the creators and the players are truly rewarded. Thank you so much.”
Director: Takenaga Nakaya
“Thank you for your patience! It’s been about a year since the Early Access version, and we’ve finally been able to deliver the full version of Ratatan to you all! A lot happened during development, but thanks to our fans, I believe the entire team was able to see it through to the end. Faced with the threat of the Dark Ratatans, how will the Ratatans’ story end? Please find out for yourselves!”
Character Designer: Nelnal
“It’s a great honor to celebrate the release of the full version of Ratatan with all the fans who supported us and the entire development team! I hope you’ll enjoy the unique and mysterious world of Ratatan. Thank you for your continued support.”
Composer: Keni Adachi
“I began composing by letting my imagination run wild based on the keyword ‘Ratatan.’Above all, I composed these tracks with the sole intention of drawing players into the world of Ratatan through music that lets everyone march along with a happy heart. I hope you’ll feel that sentiment in every stage! Please sing, dance, and have fun at the Ratatan theme park.”
Producer: Kazuto Sakajiri
“A huge thank you to everyone who backed us on Kickstarter and to those who’ve supported us since Early Access. Thanks to your support, we’ve been able to reach the official release.We’ve developed Ratatan as a new title with its own unique world, characters, and gameplay. Whether you’re a fan of Patapon or are discovering it for the first time, we hope you’ll play it with the excitement of experiencing a brand-new game. And we’d be thrilled if you could experience the unique charm that only Ratatan has to offer. There are still many things we want to bring to life. We ask for your continued support so we can keep growing Ratatan!”
"Ratatan" is now available for PC (Steam), PS5, Nintendo Switch 2, and XBOX Series X|S.
