The charming feline extraterrestrial Ratchet, along with his steadfast robotic sidekick Clank, has been a beloved duo in the gaming world since the days of the PlayStation 2. Together, they’ve navigated through 14 titles in the Ratchet and Clank franchise, and here’s how they stack up, ranked from least to most enjoyable!
14. Full Frontal Assault
While Ratchet and Clank are known for their exhilarating shoot-’em-up action, stunning alien environments, and comedic narratives, this title sadly does not reflect that. It leans heavily into the tower defense genre, resulting in a rather tedious experience with a nonsensical storyline. Best left unplayed.
13. All 4 One
All 4 One had potential! With a chance to play as Ratchet, Clank, Captain Quark, or even the villainous robot, it sounded promising. Unfortunately, the characters felt identical in gameplay, and glitched mechanics ruined the fun. Another missed opportunity for the series.
12. Ratchet and Clank Future: Quest for Booty
Quest for Booty feels more like an uninspired filler than a true game. Clocking in at just three hours, it’s more of an appetizer than a full meal. While it offers some amusement, it pales in comparison to the series’ genuine offerings.
11. Secret Agent Clank
Though Secret Agent Clank shines with its focus on Clank, dressed fabulously in a tuxedo, it ultimately stumbles with lackluster gameplay and less-than-stellar graphics. This is one mission we simply can’t endorse.
10. Into the Nexus
Into the Nexus represents a transition for the series into the PS3 era. While it delivered impressive visuals for its time, the allure of exploring vibrant alien worlds couldn’t overcome a lack of compelling narrative motivation. It left many players feeling uninspired.
9. Size Matters
Size Matters stands out with its classic Ratchet and Clank humor, yet this is perhaps its only strength. As a relatively short PSP game lasting about seven hours, it feels more like a light snack than the hearty gaming feast fans yearn for. It compensates for its brevity with its whimsical charm.
8. Ratchet: Deadlocked
Ratchet: Deadlocked marked a shift for the series, promoting a darker and more cynical gladiatorial combat theme. However, this departure ultimately detracted from the playful essence that fans loved. It doesn’t need to follow in the footsteps of Jak and Daxter’s tone.
7. Future: Tools of Destruction
Here we see a turning point! Following a few less successful entries, Tools of Destruction truly captures the essence of the franchise, delivering an engaging story alongside vibrant gameplay. With an impressive collection of outrageous weapons, this title is an exemplary representation of what makes Ratchet and Clank so endearing.
6. Ratchet and Clank (2002)
The inaugural entry that ignited the beloved series! Ratchet and Clank expertly fuses the buddy comedy trope from games like Jak and Daxter with an exhilarating sci-fi twist. Players control Ratchet and his robot friend, navigating through vibrant alien adventures infused with humor reminiscent of Futurama.
5. Ratchet and Clank (2016)
The 2016 remake of Ratchet and Clank captures all the nostalgia of the original while integrating modern improvements. The visuals are spectacular, transforming a cherished childhood game into a breathtaking experience. Players can expect finely tuned combat mechanics and the same lovable storyline they remember. If it isn’t broken, why fix it?
4. Up Your Arsenal
Up Your Arsenal boasts one of the best titles in gaming history! This installment solidified its place as a classic entry—a thrilling duck-and-cover adventure against an evil robotic scientist aiming to wipe out organic life. It embodies the humor, heart, and heavy artillery that fans have come to adore about the series.
3. Future: A Crack In Time
While A Crack In Time may not have the snappy title it deserves, the gameplay is nothing short of exceptional. The notorious Dr. Nefarious returns with twisted schemes, capturing Clank and forcing Ratchet into action. With possibly the best arsenal in the series, the challenge to rescue his beloved buddy is truly engaging!
2. Rift Apart
Rift Apart rises to greatness by leveraging the impressive graphics and gameplay innovations of its 2016 predecessor. The combat is at its zenith, offering tight controls and exhilarating action. The addition of Rivet, an alternate-dimension version of Ratchet, brings fresh dynamics to the narrative. Yes, please!
1. Going Commando
For titles, Going Commando tops the list, embodying everything that makes a sequel great. This exhilarating adventure seamlessly integrates humorous storytelling with high-energy gameplay. Plus, who wouldn’t want a weapon that calls down meteors on their enemies? Truly unmatched!