The beloved Ratchet and Clank series has been entertaining gamers for nearly two decades with its unique blend of action, adventure, and humor. The franchise, which originated on the PlayStation 2, has since grown to include numerous sequels, spin-offs, and remasters across various platforms. With so many games to choose from, it can be challenging to determine the correct order in which to play them. In this article, we'll explore the Ratchet and Clank games in chronological order, including the main series, spin-offs, and remasters.
The Origins of Ratchet and Clank
The Ratchet and Clank series was created by Insomniac Games, a renowned developer known for their work on the Spyro the Dragon and Resistance franchises. The first game, Ratchet and Clank, was released in 2002 for the PlayStation 2 and introduced players to the titular characters: Ratchet, a Lombax mechanic, and Clank, a defective robot. The game's success spawned a beloved franchise that has since become a staple of the PlayStation brand.
Main Series
The main series consists of 13 games, including the original trilogy, the Future series, and the Reboot series.
- Ratchet and Clank (2002) - PlayStation 2
- Ratchet and Clank: Going Commando (2003) - PlayStation 2
- Ratchet and Clank: Up Your Arsenal (2004) - PlayStation 2
- Ratchet: Deadlocked (2005) - PlayStation 2
- Ratchet and Clank: Tools of Destruction (2007) - PlayStation 3
- Ratchet and Clank Future: Quest for Booty (2008) - PlayStation 3
- Ratchet and Clank Future: A Crack in Time (2009) - PlayStation 3
- Ratchet and Clank: All 4 One (2011) - PlayStation 3
- Ratchet and Clank: Full Frontal Assault (2012) - PlayStation 3, PlayStation Vita
- Ratchet and Clank: Into the Nexus (2013) - PlayStation 3
- Ratchet and Clank (2016) - PlayStation 4
- Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart (2021) - PlayStation 5
The Original Trilogy
The original trilogy, which includes Ratchet and Clank, Going Commando, and Up Your Arsenal, follows the adventures of Ratchet and Clank as they battle against the evil Chairman Drek and his successor, Emperor Nefarious.
The Future Series
The Future series, comprising Tools of Destruction, Quest for Booty, and A Crack in Time, takes place several years after the events of the original trilogy and introduces new characters, such as Talwyn Apfelmann and Azimuth.
The Reboot Series
The Reboot series, which includes the 2016 game and Rift Apart, offers a reimagined take on the franchise, with updated graphics and gameplay mechanics.
Spin-Offs and Remasters
In addition to the main series, there are several spin-off games and remasters that expand on the Ratchet and Clank universe.
- Ratchet and Clank: Size Matters (2007) - PlayStation Portable
- Secret Agent Clank (2008) - PlayStation Portable
- Ratchet and Clank Collection (2012) - PlayStation 3, PlayStation Vita
- Ratchet and Clank: Into the Nexus (2013) - PlayStation 3
- Ratchet and Clank (2016) - PlayStation 4 (remake of the original game)
Playing the Series in Chronological Order
To play the Ratchet and Clank series in chronological order, follow this list:
- Ratchet and Clank (2002)
- Ratchet and Clank: Going Commando (2003)
- Ratchet and Clank: Up Your Arsenal (2004)
- Ratchet: Deadlocked (2005)
- Ratchet and Clank: Tools of Destruction (2007)
- Ratchet and Clank Future: Quest for Booty (2008)
- Ratchet and Clank Future: A Crack in Time (2009)
- Ratchet and Clank: All 4 One (2011)
- Ratchet and Clank: Full Frontal Assault (2012)
- Ratchet and Clank: Into the Nexus (2013)
- Ratchet and Clank (2016)
- Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart (2021)
Note that playing the series in chronological order may not be necessary to enjoy the games, as each title has its own unique storyline and gameplay mechanics.
Conclusion
The Ratchet and Clank series has come a long way since its debut in 2002, offering a wide range of games that cater to different tastes and preferences. By playing the series in chronological order, fans can experience the evolution of the franchise and appreciate the complexities of the Ratchet and Clank universe. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned veteran, the Ratchet and Clank series has something to offer everyone.
Join the Conversation!
What's your favorite Ratchet and Clank game? Do you have a preferred playing order for the series? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's discuss the wonderful world of Ratchet and Clank!
What is the best Ratchet and Clank game?
+The best Ratchet and Clank game is subjective and depends on personal preferences. However, the original trilogy and the Future series are generally considered the most iconic and beloved games in the franchise.
Can I play the Ratchet and Clank series on PlayStation 5?
+Yes, you can play the Ratchet and Clank series on PlayStation 5, including the latest game, Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart. Additionally, the PlayStation 5 is backward compatible with PlayStation 4 games, allowing you to play the 2016 remake and other titles in the series.
Are there any spin-off games in the Ratchet and Clank series?
+Yes, there are several spin-off games in the Ratchet and Clank series, including Size Matters, Secret Agent Clank, and All 4 One. These games offer unique gameplay mechanics and storylines that expand on the Ratchet and Clank universe.