Ratchet and Clank HD (PS3) Review

Adventures in Space.

  The intergalactic duo, Ratchet and Clank, made their debut back in 2002 for the PlayStation 2. The game proved to be a success and made the duo one of PlayStation's all-star cast. It also made Insomniac Games (Spyro the Dragon series) one of  PlayStation's most important developers. In 2012, an HD Collection containing the first three games was released to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the series. This month, a re-imagining of the first game was released for the PS4 and the much-anticipated 3D animated movie is coming out at the end of the month. To celebrate the series' success, let's review the game that started it all, Ratchet and Clank.


STORY-  The plot follows mechanic Ratchet and robot Clank as they save Solana Galaxy from Chairman Drek, whom plans to create a planet for his kind at the cost of destroying other planets in the process. Together, Ratchet and Clank must contact Captain Quark, a famous hero who can save the galaxy. However, things aren't going to be easy since Chairman Drek is throwing everything he's got at the duo to stop them. The main reason why I love the stories in Ratchet and Clank games is because of the humor, action, and the wide cast of interesting characters. Ratchet and Clanks does a fine job of telling a story that'll hook for at least 10-15 hours.


GAMEPLAY- Ratchet and Clank is third-person shooter platformer. You're presented with fairly linear levels in which you can run around and beat enemies. Ratchet is mainly controlled throughout most of the game but can also play as Clank in some sections. Weapons and Gear are your best buddies in the game. With a total of 35 weapons and gadgets overall, there are lots of ways to kick some butt. Ratchet's main weapon at the beginning of the game is his wrench, however, as you progress through the story by visiting other planets, you'll be able to purchase other weapons and ammunition at local vendors. Bolts are the game's currency. They can be easily found by either beating enemies or smashing crates.

 There are times where Clank is needed to get past certain areas, and this is where he's handy. Clank can command cute little robots called Gadgetbots, which he can help him get past some obstacles and enemies. Clank is smaller and less acrobatic than Ratchet, yet he still has unique abilities of his own. At some points in the game, Clank can transform into a giant mech in which he can easily dispatch large enemies.

The gameplay is solid and fun after all these years.

 There are loads of cool guns and gadgets in the game. Some weapons include the Blaster (a high rate of fire gun), Pyrociter (your typical flamethrower), Glove of Doom (can send little minions to kill enemies), and more that I won't spoil. As for the gadgets, the SwingShot (allows you to swing from various points) and Trespasser (lets you hack locked panels) and more that'll help you on your journey. What's great is that you can do some experimentation with the weapons on enemies to see which is more efficiency when dealing with them. Some parts of the levels even require you to use your newly acquired gadget to open up a locked path.

PRESENTATION- Back when it was released for the PS2, Ratchet and Clank was stunning. While the cartoony visuals slowly shows its age, the game is packed with a lot of detail and creativity in its level and weapon designs. The voice-cast are great, with many delivering spot-on and memorable performances that fits their roles. The soundtrack, which packs loads of catchy and neat tracks is also a great aspect of the presentation.

Idol Minds did a good job of polishing things up with the HD update.

OVERALL- While later games in the series would improve upon it in every way, the original Ratchet and Clank is a fun adventure from start to finish. Despite some slow-down and camera issues, there is a lot of fun to be had here. Ratchet and Clank are going strong even after their inception back in 2002 with a movie and game this year. I can't wait to see what's in store for the duo next.

IMPRESSIVE