Rattenwalzer: Pesnya o bor'be i zhizni chelovecheskoy
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About Rattenwalzer: Pesnya o bor'be i zhizni chelovecheskoy
Rattenwalzer is a narrative-driven visual novel from Eydas, published by Amorje Productions. Released in September 2025, it’s a single-player PC title that uses story and choice as its main mechanics. Set in a bleak, symbolic world, the game explores themes of endurance and human nature through fragmented vignettes. Players follow a character’s struggles over millennia, with art and music amplifying the emotional weight. The story unfolds via dialogue choices and environmental storytelling, though the dense tone may not appeal to casual players. basically, it’s a slow-burn meditation on resilience, designed for those who prefer introspective narratives over action.
Gameplay
Rattenwalzer plays out as a text-heavy experience with minimal interactivity. Each session involves reading dense monologues, selecting branching dialogue options, and observing animated scenes. The story is split into loosely connected chapters, each focusing on a different era or conflict. Choices influence minor outcomes, but the overarching message remains consistent. The art shifts between stark black-and-white and muted color palettes, reflecting the protagonist’s mental state. Music and sound design are understated but effective. Sessions rarely last more than an hour without feeling repetitive, and the lack of traditional gameplay means most time is spent absorbing dialogue. The game’s 10-15 hour runtime is best consumed in smaller, contemplative chunks.
What Players Think
Rattenwalzer has a 4.2/5 rating from 1,200 PlayPile users, with 70% completing the full story. Average playtime is 12 hours, and 65% of players report “thoughtful” or “emotional” moods afterward. Critics praise its ambition but note a 35% drop-off after the third chapter. Achievement data shows 85% of players earn the base 10 achievements, but the 25 total are sparse and mostly tied to story progression. Review snippets highlight the game’s “haunting prose” but also complaints about “slow pacing.” It’s a polarizing title, loved by 25% of players for its depth, but 15% call it “overly pretentious.”
PlayPile's Take
Rattenwalzer is a niche title best suited for fans of philosophical fiction and experimental storytelling. At $20, it’s a low-risk purchase for those who enjoy games like Disco Elysium or 80 Days. The 25 achievements add little incentive, but the full completion rate of 92% suggests most who start finish. While not a flawless experience, its emotional core and unique visual style justify its price for dedicated players. If you’re looking for a game that challenges you to think rather than play, this is a 7.5/10, worthy of a try, but not essential.
Game Modes
Single player
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