Ratatan lands on Switch 2 as a crowdfunded spiritual successor to Patapon, the cult PSP rhythm-action strategy game from designer Hiroyuki Kotani and French artist Rolito Giuli. It keeps the core hook — tapping out rhythms on face buttons to command a tribe of tiny creatures — and layers a roguelite structure on top.
The original Patapon had players drumming commands to march, attack, and defend with a tribe of small eyeball warriors, blending rhythm mechanics with real-time strategy in a visually distinctive style. Both the original game and its sequel came to Switch last year, making the platform a natural home for Ratatan. The new game cranks up the chaos and adds roguelite progression, meaning runs, randomised elements, and the loop of failure and improvement that defines the genre.
Patapon built a devoted following during the PSP era, and Kotani's return to the formula via crowdfunding signals genuine passion for the concept rather than a publisher-driven revival. The Switch 2 is a strong fit for this kind of pick-up-and-play rhythm game, continuing the handheld legacy the series was born on.
Nintendo Life's full review is live now for anyone weighing up whether Ratatan's roguelite spin does justice to the Patapon legacy.
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Related on Ratatan
Ratatan Delayed to October
Ratatan, the Patapon-inspired rhythm game, has been pushed back to October. No new specific release date was given beyond the month.