Patapon Spiritual Successor, Ratatan is Set to Launch in 2025

Game Source Entertainment has partnered with developers Tokyo Virtual Theory (TVT) and Ratata Arts to bring Ratatan, the highly anticipated spiritual successor to the Patapon series, to major platforms in 2025. This rhythm-action roguelike will be available for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series, Nintendo Switch, and PC.

Ratatan builds upon the legacy of Patapon, a beloved rhythm-based action game first released for the PSP in 2007. In Patapon, players commanded an army of anthropomorphic eyeballs known as “Patapons” by tapping out drumbeats to move, attack, defend, or retreat. The game spawned two sequels and saw remastered editions of the first two titles for PS4 with 4K visuals.

A newly released trailer for Ratatan highlights its innovative gameplay, blending rhythm and strategy. Players assume the role of a conductor leading a charming army of “Ratatan” characters through rhythmic button commands. Musical instruments double as powerful tools, unleashing skills during battles while maintaining the iconic four-beat mechanics. The game introduces modernized movement systems and roguelike elements, enhancing its gameplay depth.

The game promises an engaging multiplayer mode supporting up to four players online, made possible through TVT’s “Theory Engine.” Ratatan will also offer extensive language support, including Japanese, English, Korean, French, German, and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for a global audience.

With Patapon creator Hiroyuki Kotani, artist Nelnal, sound designer Kemmei Adachi, and dotHack director Kenei Nakasha leading development, the project raised over 10 times its crowdfunding goal earlier this year. Accordinf to VGC, a PC beta is planned but will most likely take place next year, with console tests under consideration.

The three main game concepts are over 100 cute characters fighting it out on screen, four-player simultaneous battles, and more adventure and roguelike elements than Patapon had, – Producer Kazuto Sakajiri via a VGC interview

Fans of rhythm-action games can look forward to Ratatan bringing back the charm of Patapon with a fresh twist in April 2025.

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