Key Takeaways
- Ratatan, the spiritual successor to Patapon, is set to release in 2025 on multiple platforms.
- Ratatan will maintain the rhythm-strategy gameplay of Patapon while introducing roguelike elements and 4-player online co-op mode.
- The game was successfully funded on Kickstarter in 2023 and aims to improve the experience of the original Patapon series.
Game Source Entertainment has revealed the 2025 release window for Ratatan, the spiritual successor of cult-classic Patapon. When the original Patapon released on the PSP in 2007, the game seemed to be largely indicative of the experimental attitude that PlayStation appeared to be taking towards many of its first-party video games. As a rhythm series with a generally small scale and an emphasis on the d-pad and face buttons, Patapon seemed to thrive. Ratatan may be able to carry on the legacy of the Patapon series now that enough gamers have shown they want these titles back in some form.
The Patapon series focused on utilizing the face buttons on the controller to provide rhythmic commands to an army. The player would serve as somewhat of a bard as well as a strategist, planning through battles and using the beat to lead the Patapons to victory against the Zigoton empire. Although the titles were well-received, Patapon momentarily vanished following the closure of Japan Studio. Co-developer Pyramid went on to produce remasters of the Patapon titles that were published by Sony. Core developers from the original series such as designer Hiroyuki Kotani and composer Kemmei Adachi have since banded together with producer Kazuto Sakajiri to create Ratatan.
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Ratatan‘s publisher Game Source Entertainment revealed that the upcoming game is set for a 2025 release on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, and PC. In addition to the news, a new trailer and more details on the game have been revealed. Along with more detailed art compared to its PlayStation-exclusive predecessor and 4k visuals, Ratatan promises to feature similar gameplay to the side-scrolling rhythm-strategy classic Patapon while evolving its formula in a couple of key ways.
Patapon Spiritual Successor Ratatan Slated for 2025
Ratatan‘s biggest difference might be the incorporation of some roguelike elements. Players will be able to acquire randomized power-ups and rewards intended to create variety within the new adventure, while the game’s “fever mode” provides the ability to enhance effectiveness in battle when players stick to the beat. The game will have a 4-player online co-op mode and overall seeks to improve on the experience that one of Sony’s best first-party PSP games introduced.
Gamers have wanted to see Patapon make a comeback for some time, and Ratatan could be that and some more. This game was successfully funded as a Kickstarter campaign that launched in the summer of 2023, and it has quickly picked up steam ever since. If Ratatan ends up finding even more success after its 2025 release, gamers could end up seeing a lot more from developer Ratata Arts.
Patapon
For years the Patapon tribe has lived in the desolate frontier, driven from their home by the evil Zigoton army. Behind the Patapons’ cute exterior, lies a fierce warrior spirit that can only be commanded by the beat of their God’s war drum. They wait for the day that the “Almighty” will return, to lead them against their enemies and bring them back to their homeland. Finally, their wait has come to an end as the drums of war are heard once again.
Rhythm and Action Collide – Master up to six different drumbeats to command the Patapon troops to march, attack, defend, power up, retreat, and use magic. Combine the various chains of drumbeats to address each unique level, leading the Patapons to victory over the Zigoton enemy forces.
Strategic Gaming – Patapon delivers a strong element of strategy by requiring players to properly customize and build up the Patapon army, arm each soldier with particular weapons and armor, and position them correctly for battle.
Mission Variety – Take part in more than 30 specific missions including hunting, escort, and boss battles, and explore numerous vivid environments along the way. Players will discover and access more than 100 items and weapons throughout the adventure.
Unique Art Style – French graphic artist Rolito, noted for his abstract art style seen in collectible toys, animation, and websites, lends his skills to create a variety of unique characters and environments, bringing the Patapon world to life.
Mini-Games – Five music-based mini-games allow players to earn bonuses and upgrades to further customize the Patapon warriors.
Music – Captivating and dramatic original music builds dynamically as players march and encounter enemy battles throughout each level.
- Released
- December 20, 2007
- Developer
- Japan Studio, Pyramid, Pyramid (JP)
- Publisher
- Japan Studio, Pyramid, Pyramid (JP)
- ESRB
- t
- How Long To Beat
- 20 hours
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