Ratatan is a rhythm roguelike action game that blends precise timing-based commands with side-scrolling battles and procedural runs. Players take control of a Ratatan hero who leads armies of Cobun units across the world of Redo in an effort to reach The Everafter and meet the Goddess. The core loop centers on syncing button inputs to the music to direct troops while the leader moves freely through each stage.
Gameplay
The rhythm system forms the foundation of every encounter. Players input sequences on a four-beat measure using button combinations that correspond to musical phrases. Accurate timing issues commands for marching, attacking, defending, or activating special abilities. Missed beats cause commands to fail or trigger incorrectly, leaving the Cobun army vulnerable. Consistent success builds a tension gauge that unlocks Fever Mode, where the soundtrack intensifies with added layers and the entire squad gains boosted attack power and new animations.
Each Ratatan hero brings unique skills tied to their instrument or role, such as support effects or defensive auras. Cobun units vary widely in type and equipment, with over one hundred options available across runs. The player character moves independently of the rhythm meter, allowing positioning decisions that influence where orders land and when to retreat. Procedural generation ensures each attempt through the stages features different layouts, enemy placements, and temporary upgrades that alter army performance.
Back at the hub area called Rataport, players manage squads, equip items, and pursue permanent improvements through objectives and material trades. Death ends the current run but carries forward knowledge and collected resources for the next attempt. The 2D animation style gives distinct personality to every unit and action during the large-scale melees.
Game Modes
Ratatan structures its experience around roguelike runs that players undertake either alone or with others. Single-player runs focus on building and refining a personal army across successive stages until reaching a boss or failing. Online co-op supports up to four participants, with each player controlling their own Ratatan and contributing their Cobun forces to shared battles. The multiplayer setup emphasizes synchronized rhythm inputs for combined Fever Mode effects and coordinated positioning.
Progression ties into the hub systems regardless of mode. Players return to Rataport after each run to reorganize equipment, complete quests on the board, and invest in upgrades that persist across attempts. No separate competitive or endless modes exist beyond these core run structures.
Story and World
The narrative follows the Ratatans as they pursue their shared dream of reaching The Everafter despite repeated setbacks. The setting spans the lively island of Rataport and the varied environments of Redo, where enemies oppose the journey. Character designs emphasize variety in appearance and personality among both the playable Ratatans and the Cobun troops they command.
Is It Worth Playing?
Ratatan delivers a distinctive mix of rhythm precision and roguelike decision-making that appeals to players who enjoy timing challenges alongside build experimentation. Early Access feedback highlights the satisfying feedback loop of perfect command chains and the lively soundtrack that evolves during Fever Mode. The co-op option adds another layer for groups seeking synchronized play.
Those drawn to spiritual successors of rhythm-strategy titles or short, replayable runs will find the most immediate value. The game remains in active development ahead of its full release, with ongoing refinements to controls and content. Availability on PS5 positions it for console players interested in the genre blend without requiring prior experience with similar games.
