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About RUBATO
RUBATO is an experimental 2D physics‑based collect‑a‑thon set in the year 12,012. A multiquadrillionaire monopoly, GSSAI CO., has ruled the universe for centuries, and the solar system has been destroyed by unknown forces. The player controls a lone hero who must lick enemies and objects with his tongue while gathering Planet Bits.
The game offers five compact, densely packed areas—including a sprawling bakery and a poorly planned city—each designed for open, metroidvania‑like exploration. Secrets and shortcuts are hidden throughout, and the narrative blends absurd humor with moments of seriousness, emphasizing self‑discovery before saving the world.
01 / THE GUIDE
Story and Setting
The plot unfolds in a future where GSSAI CO. has ruled the universe after a world‑ending bioweapon and the solar system’s destruction. A single protagonist, after a mishap in a game of pool, must traverse open zones to collect Planet Bits and repair the cosmos.
The narrative balances absurd humor with serious moments, encouraging the player to “find yourself again” before attempting to save the world. This focus on self‑discovery is presented as a prerequisite to the larger goal of fixing the solar system.
- Notice how humorous details in the environment can hint at hidden paths.
- Listen for dialogue that foreshadows later plot developments.
02 / THE GUIDE
Core Gameplay Mechanics
The hero’s primary tool is his tongue, which can lick enemies and objects. This interaction drives both combat and puzzle elements, with physics‑based reactions shaping how objects move or respond when licked.
Collecting "Planet Bits" is the central progression loop; these items are required to repair the solar system. Exploration of open, metroidvania‑style zones rewards players with shortcuts and hidden secrets.
- Try licking different objects to observe varied physics responses.
- Use the tongue ability for both attacking foes and manipulating obstacles.

03 / THE GUIDE
World Design and Areas
RUBATO contains five densely packed areas, each with a distinct theme such as a massive bakery or a chaotic city. The design encourages thorough scanning because many pathways and items are tucked away in less obvious spots.
Each zone supports open exploration, allowing players to discover shortcuts and secrets. The compact nature of the areas means that revisiting them after gaining new abilities can reveal previously inaccessible locations.
- Create a mental map of each area to remember shortcut locations.
- Return to earlier zones after acquiring new abilities to test new routes.
04 / THE GUIDE
Accessibility and Comfort Options
The game includes Camera Comfort and Adjustable Difficulty, letting players tailor visual movement and challenge level. It also notes that flashing lights are present, providing a health warning for photosensitive epilepsy.
Playability without Timed Input means actions are not forced into strict time windows, allowing a more relaxed pacing for players who prefer a slower rhythm.
- Enable Camera Comfort if rapid camera shifts feel disorienting.
- Adjust difficulty early to match your preferred challenge.
05 / THE GUIDE
Platform and Controller Support
RUBATO is released for Windows and lists Full controller support, including DualShock and DualSense compatibility. This indicates that standard controllers can be used throughout the game.
Steam features such as Achievements, Steam Cloud, and Family Sharing are present, allowing progress to be saved to the cloud and the game library to be shared with family members.
- Test both DualShock and DualSense controllers to see which feels more natural for tongue actions.
- Enable Steam Cloud if you plan to reinstall or play on multiple PCs.





COMMUNITY
Player discussion