Ratatan is a rhythm roguelike action game available on PC that blends precise timing-based commands with side-scrolling battles. Players lead armies of Cobun creatures through procedural runs, issuing orders to the beat of an original soundtrack to advance toward the Everafter and meet the Goddess.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on rhythm input sequences that direct a squad of Cobun in real time. Basic commands include marching forward, launching attacks, raising guards against incoming threats, and jumping to evade ground-level strikes. Sustained accurate timing builds tension and triggers Fever mode, which boosts attack power and alters the music for heightened intensity. Each run takes place across distinct worlds filled with enemies and bosses, where players collect upgrades that modify Cobun abilities, such as adding elemental effects like poison or shock to attacks.
Players select from multiple Ratatan commanders, each offering unique passives and ultimate abilities that influence squad tactics. Cobun come in varied unit types with specialized weapons, allowing different formations for offense, defense, or support roles. The included Cobun Set adds one of each type right away: An as the Soldier Cobun, Nah as the Pike Cobun, Yachi as the Bombardier Cobun, Shu as the Ranger Cobun, Gun as the Assault Cobun, Lech as the Magical Cobun, Toto as the Ninja Cobun, and Yan as the Mauler Cobun. These can be assigned directly on the squad screen in Rataport after purchase, expanding options for run customization without altering the base rhythm mechanics.
Runs feature roguelite progression through upgrades and equipment that carry over between attempts in limited ways, encouraging experimentation with different commander and Cobun combinations. The system supports up to four players in online co-op, where each participant controls their own Ratatan and Cobun group, coordinating commands for larger-scale battles.
Game Modes
Ratatan structures its experience around story-driven roguelite runs divided into episodes and worlds. Players progress through sequential areas, choosing rewards after clearing rooms and facing escalating challenges that culminate in major boss encounters. Episode 1 and 2 form the initial content, with later episodes unlocking additional story segments, new bosses, and access to further worlds upon meeting specific conditions.
Co-op sessions integrate directly into the same run structure, allowing groups to tackle the same roguelite paths together with synchronized Fever activations for amplified effects. The design emphasizes repeated attempts with evolving strategies rather than separate competitive or versus formats, keeping focus on cooperative rhythm execution and squad management across the campaign progression.
Is It Worth Playing?
Ratatan reached full release with additional story episodes and cross-platform features, including cross-play support on Steam, Nintendo Switch 2, and Xbox Series X|S. Steam reviews stand at Very Positive based on thousands of ratings, reflecting consistent praise for the soundtrack, visual style, and addictive command rhythm. Critics have noted its faithful evolution of rhythm-action roots with roguelite depth, though some mention a learning curve for timing precision and occasional repetition in longer sessions.
The game suits players who enjoy timing-based strategy combined with light progression systems and co-op opportunities. Those familiar with similar rhythm command gameplay will find immediate appeal in the expanded Cobun options and commander variety, while newcomers benefit from adjustable difficulty settings that ease into the mechanics. Current support includes ongoing patches that refine performance and add content, making it a solid choice for repeated playthroughs focused on optimization and squad building.
