Review: Ratchet & Clank (PS4)

This title is the game based on the movie, which in turn is based on the classic PS2 game. For the third time, players can experience the original Ratchet & Clank, initially released in 2002 for the Playstation 2. The question remains: is another playthrough warranted?

The graphics in the cutscenes are said to be close to the feature film

It’s remarkable how quickly time passes. The Playstation 2 is now two, approaching three, console generations in the past. It’s challenging to convey to contemporary gamers just how fundamentally simple the hardware was. However, upon its release, it possessed sufficient processing power to be described as capable of “controlling missiles” (leading to export restrictions to countries like Saddam’s Iraq). The PS2 served as the birthplace or launchpad for numerous classic franchises. Among these is Insomniac Games’ 3D platformer Ratchet & Clank, a dynamic duo that challenged Naughty Dog’s Jak & Daxter for supremacy, ultimately earning recognition as one of Playstation’s premier platforming titles. Three main Ratchet & Clank games were released, alongside smaller spin-off adventures like A Crack in Time and Nexus, in addition to the less relevant spin-offs Q-Force and Gladiator.

Following the trajectory of graphical advancements, the heroes have returned. First, the complete original trilogy was remastered in HD for the PS3 (2012). Now, the first game is being released again, this time on the PS4. However, this is more than a simple HD remake. To coincide with the theatrical release of the feature film, the core storyline has been revised, effectively constituting a minor reboot. This signals a potential trend of reworked versions of the older games appearing on the PS4. Enhanced graphics, updated environments, entirely new cutscenes, and weapon upgrade capabilities are among the new features. Even players intimately familiar with the original will find much that is recognizable.

Tip – use the disco ball (Groovitron) as much as you can throughout the game…

The immediate impression is the visual fidelity of Ratchet & Clank on PS4. The transition between pre-rendered cutscenes and in-game environments is almost seamless. This demonstrates the potential of movie and game crossovers (even with the film’s release delays). Several game sequences have been revamped, and new narrative elements have been incorporated, resulting in a Ratchet & Clank experience that feels substantially fresh on the PS4. The audio has also undergone enhancements, with the surround sound providing crisp sound effects and the voice acting being particularly well-executed. The controls exhibit slight differences compared to previous iterations, and veteran players may need an adjustment period. To maintain a consistent 30fps frame rate – a reasonable target that is largely achieved – there has been a slight compromise in control responsiveness. While not a significant lag, a subtle delay and reduced accuracy can be perceived in especially action-heavy segments, justifying the inclusion of auto-aim as a standard feature on the normal difficulty setting. Some sequences, like the hoverboard sections, have been made more accessible, while others, such as the spaceship dogfights, present a slightly greater challenge. The game’s difficulty curve is also somewhat uneven, with the final boss posing a significantly greater challenge than the preceding content (though not as formidable as Drek in the original and HD versions, provided the RYNO weapon is available). The trespasser puzzles (laser redirection) appear with arguably excessive frequency. Although skippable, doing so prevents acquisition of the associated trophy.

Ratchet & Clank on PS4 is incredibly good-looking – it’s a shame that there are so many dark levels and sequences

A substantial number of new trophies are available to unlock, and collectible cards have been introduced, offering bonus effects when three cards of the same type are collected. Duplicate cards can be exchanged (5 for 1) to facilitate collection completion. While a satisfactory addition, one wonders if a dedicated card game, reminiscent of the exceptionally compelling Gwent in Witcher 3, could have been implemented. The core game is somewhat short, even when pursuing all available missions. Players are encouraged to replay the game in Challenge Mode, a returning feature which offers the opportunity to acquire enhanced weaponry and amass greater quantities of nuts and bolts. Replayability extends the playtime to approximately 15 hours, a reasonable duration.

Ratchet & Clank remains a standout title on Playstation, and this PS4 iteration – more accurately described as a reboot than a remake – serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of 3D platformers. While not without minor imperfections, it is a recommended experience for anyone with even a passing interest in the genre. The comparatively shorter playtime is justified by the lower price point offered by Sony. A worthwhile purchase.