At the recent BitSummit Awards, Ratatan, a spiritual successor to the beloved Patapon series, took home the prestigious Vermilion Gate Award, highlighting its potential to redefine indie gaming. This rhythm action game, which has garnered significant attention since its crowdfunding campaign in 2020, showcases a unique blend of roguelike elements and rhythmic gameplay, promising to captivate players when it launches in Steam Early Access on July 25. Additionally, the VGC Award was awarded to Digital Exorcist, a visual novel that has charmed players with its humor and engaging characters.

BitSummit 2025 is set to be a landmark event in the indie gaming community, showcasing an impressive lineup of 120 games from Japan and around the globe. Scheduled to take place from July 19 to July 21 at the Miyako Messe in Kyoto, this year’s theme, “Summer of Yokai,” pays homage to Japan’s rich folklore, promising a unique experience for attendees. With over 38,000 participants last year, the expo has grown significantly since its inception in 2012, reflecting the increasing interest in indie games.