Ratchet & Clank Review

Ratchet & Clank, developed by Insomniac Games and published by Sony Computer Entertainment, soared onto the PlayStation 4 (PS4) in 2016. Conceived as a reimagining of the original 2002 game, designed to tie into the animated film (which released around the same time), this action-platformer delivered stunning visuals, refined gameplay, and a charming retelling of the duo’s origin. This Ratchet & Clank PS4 review explores why it’s a true gaming masterpiece and a standout classic PS4 game.

Gameplay: Inventive Arsenal and Explosive Fun

At its core, Ratchet & Clank on PS4 offers a delightful blend of energetic platforming, frantic third-person shooter combat, and light puzzles. Players control the brave Lombax, Ratchet, accompanied by his intelligent robot companion, Clank. The series’ signature element – an over-the-top, inventive arsenal of weapons and gadgets – is on full display and more creative than ever. From the Groovitron (which makes enemies dance) to the Pixelizer (which turns foes into 8-bit sprites), every weapon feels unique and satisfying to wield.

Weapons level up with use, encouraging players to experiment with their entire loadout. The combat is fluid and responsive, with enemies exploding into satisfying showers of nuts and bolts (the game’s currency). These bolts are used to purchase new weapons and upgrades, creating an addictive loop of destruction and collection. Beyond the main action, there are engaging hoverboard races, dogfighting sequences, and clever environmental puzzles that break up the pace. The game runs at a crisp 1080p and a stable 30 FPS on the PS4, ensuring the vibrant visuals and chaotic action are consistently smooth.

• Inventive and hilarious arsenal of upgradeable weapons
• Refined platforming and fluid third-person combat
• Addictive bolt-collecting and weapon progression loop
• Varied gameplay segments including races and space combat
• Stunning visuals and stable performance on PS4

Story and Setting: A Familiar Yet Fresh Beginning

The narrative of Ratchet & Clank on PS4 is a charming “reinvented origin story” that loosely follows the plot of the animated film, while injecting more depth and classic game elements. It tells the tale of how the unlikely duo met and teamed up to thwart the nefarious plans of Chairman Drek and the returning villain, Dr. Nefarious, aided (and sometimes hindered) by the self-proclaimed hero, Captain Qwark.

The storytelling is lighthearted and genuinely funny, infused with the series’ signature humor and endearing charismatic characters. The game transports players across a vibrant galaxy filled with diverse planets, each beautifully designed with unique environments and challenges.

Graphics and Sound: Pixar-Level Presentation

Visually, Ratchet & Clank on the PS4 is an absolute showstopper. The graphics are simply breathtaking, almost indistinguishable from a high-quality animated film. The detailed character models, vibrant colors, lush environments, and spectacular particle effects create a stunning and incredibly immersive universe. It’s a testament to Insomniac’s mastery of the PS4 hardware.

The sound design is equally brilliant, featuring a dynamic and adventurous iconic soundtrack that perfectly complements the action. The weapon sounds are distinct and satisfying, and the top-tier voice acting (with many returning series veterans) brings the beloved characters to life with warmth and humor.

Replayability: Gold Bolts and Challenge Mode

Ratchet & Clank offers strong replayability. Beyond the main campaign, players can collect Gold Bolts to unlock cheats, challenge modes, and weapon skins. The “Challenge Mode” (New Game+) allows players to restart the game with all their unlocked weapons and upgrades, enabling even more over-the-top destruction.

Is Ratchet & Clank on PS4 Worth Playing Today?

Absolutely. For fans of action-platformers, third-person shooters, or anyone looking for a genuinely fun and visually stunning family-friendly adventure, Ratchet & Clank on PS4 is a must-play. Its inventive arsenal, charming narrative, and breathtaking presentation make it an incredibly immersive and endlessly enjoyable experience. It’s a true gaming masterpiece and a shining example of a PlayStation exclusive that continues to captivate on the PlayStation 4.