Ratatan Delays Early Access Launch After Demo Criticism

Ratatan, a spiritual successor to Japan Studio's classic rhythm game Patapon, has delayed its early access launch.

Supporting single player and four player online co-op, Ratatan is a side-scrolling rhythm roguelike action where over 100 characters fight in melee battles. Previously targeting July 25 on Steam Early Access, Ratata Arts confirmed that it's been delayed after poor reception to last month's demo. A new release date is unconfirmed as the team state it's “still in the process of being finalized,” and an announcement will follow “as soon as it is decided.”

Addressing why it's taken this decision on Steam, the studio advised it doesn't have enough time to “properly address the overwhelming amount of feedback we’ve received.” Highlighted issues include the tutorial and UI being difficult to understand, concerns about the “unsatisfying” roguelike structure and reward pacing. Other concerns noted relate to Ratatan's presentation, requested improvements to pacing and content structure, and more.

While early access launches are often used as a means of gathering feedback, the studio evidently wants to address these key concerns before its upcoming launch. Ratata Arts also used this statement to make the point that “Ratatan is not Patapon,” highlighting its differences despite the clear inspirations and the fact that some developers worked on the original series.

We'll look to bring you our full thoughts when Ratatan eventually arrives in early access. That's coming to PC, Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and Switch.