The original Patapon was a 2007 release from developers Pyramid and Japan Studio, blending strategic elements with a rhythm game. The PSP title went on to be a surprise hit, spawning two direct sequels. Now, Patapon’s original creator, Hiroyuki Kotani, is back with a spiritual successor with Ratatan. The game’s Kickstarter campaign is set to launch on July 31 at 9:00am Pacific or 12:00pm Eastern and has an initial release goal for PC. Stretch goals will include releases for modern consoles, and Red Art Games is already onboard to distribute a physical edition of the game in the west if the Kickstarter campaign is a success.
Ratatan’s gameplay incorporates a unique combination of rhythm and strategy, much like Patapon did. Players take on the conductor role, controlling the actions of the Ratatan army. Each button represents one of four musical phrases, and they must be struck in sync with an established rhythm to give orders to the army. Further adding depth, certain Ratatan characters are equipped with musical instruments that can unleash special skills in battle. Ratatan also features a more modern movement system to go with its classic four-beat attack-defense gameplay, which Patapon fans will surely recognize.
