The Complete Ratchet & Clank Game Order Guide

To truly appreciate the epic saga of Ratchet and Clank, understanding the optimal play order is crucial. This guide provides a definitive Ratchet & Clank game order that balances chronological story progression with release dates, ensuring both narrative coherence and access to the evolving gameplay experience. Our analysis shows that while many games stand alone, playing them in a considered sequence significantly enhances enjoyment, deepens character connection, and makes sense of the overarching lore of this iconic PlayStation duo. Whether you're a veteran Lombax fan or a new recruit to the galactic rangers, following a structured Ratchet & Clank series order will unlock the full potential of your journey through vibrant alien worlds and thrilling space battles.

Understanding the Ratchet & Clank Timeline: Release vs. Chronology

The Ratchet & Clank series, developed by Insomniac Games, spans over two decades, featuring numerous mainline entries, spin-offs, and even a movie. Deciphering the ideal Ratchet & Clank game order can be challenging due to overlapping timelines and reboots. Historically, games have often been released in a way that aligns with their story, but there are notable exceptions, especially with remakes and certain spin-offs. Having played through the entire series multiple times, we've identified that a blended approach is best, prioritizing canonical story beats while acknowledging the practicalities of game availability.

Release Order vs. Chronological Order

Navigating the Ratchet & Clank universe requires distinguishing between when games were launched and when their stories take place. While often similar, certain titles complicate a strict chronological playthrough.

Here’s a breakdown of the games by their original release date, which often reflects technological advancements and gameplay evolution: — Walmart Intercom Code: Setup & Troubleshooting

• Ratchet & Clank (PS2) – 2002
• Ratchet & Clank: Going Commando (PS2) – 2003
• Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal (PS2) – 2004
• Ratchet & Clank: Deadlocked (PS2) – 2005
• Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters (PSP/PS2) – 2007
• Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction (PS3) – 2007
• Ratchet & Clank Future: Quest for Booty (PS3) – 2008
• Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time (PS3) – 2009
• Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One (PS3) – 2011
• Ratchet & Clank: Full Frontal Assault (PS3) – 2012
• Ratchet & Clank: Into the Nexus (PS3) – 2013
• Ratchet & Clank (PS4) – 2016 (Re-imagining of the original game)
• Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (PS5) – 2021

The chronological order for the main storyline largely follows this, but with key distinctions. For instance, the 2016 PS4 game is a re-imagining and doesn't fit neatly into the original timeline; it serves as an alternative starting point concurrent with the movie. Understanding this distinction is vital for new players deciding on their Ratchet & Clank game order.

The "Future" Saga and its Lore

The "Future" saga, comprising Tools of Destruction, Quest for Booty, and A Crack in Time, represents a pivotal arc in the Ratchet & Clank series order. These games delve deep into Ratchet’s origins as the last Lombax, introducing crucial lore about his species and the universe's most powerful artifacts. A Crack in Time, in particular, is often considered one of the narrative high points, providing significant revelations about Ratchet’s family and Clank’s true purpose. For players focused on understanding the core narrative, this trilogy is indispensable. It establishes many of the stakes and character motivations that carry through to later entries, including Into the Nexus and, critically, Rift Apart.

The Definitive Ratchet & Clank Play Order (Recommended)

Based on our comprehensive analysis of story continuity, character development, and accessibility, we recommend a specific Ratchet & Clank game order designed to provide the most fulfilling experience for both newcomers and returning fans. This order prioritizes the main narrative arc, ensuring that critical plot points are revealed naturally, and character relationships evolve logically.

Core Canonical Games for Story Progression

For the most cohesive narrative experience, focusing on the core, canonical titles is paramount. This sequence provides a direct path through the main story of Ratchet and Clank, their allies, and their recurring adversaries.

1. Ratchet & Clank (PS2, 2002): Start here to experience the duo's origin story and first adventure. While the 2016 remake exists, the original offers the foundational narrative. You can read more about its legacy on PlayStation.com.
2. Ratchet & Clank: Going Commando (PS2, 2003): Builds directly on the first game, expanding the universe and introducing new mechanics.
3. Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal (PS2, 2004): Continues the story, solidifying the dynamic between the heroes and their nemesis, Dr. Nefarious.
4. Ratchet & Clank: Deadlocked (PS2, 2005): A more combat-focused entry, but it remains canonical and shows a different side of the duo's partnership.
5. Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction (PS3, 2007): Kicks off the "Future" saga, a critical arc for Ratchet's backstory.
6. Ratchet & Clank Future: Quest for Booty (PS3, 2008): A shorter, downloadable title that directly bridges Tools of Destruction and A Crack in Time.
7. Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time (PS3, 2009): Often hailed as a narrative masterpiece, this game is essential for understanding Ratchet's origins and the fate of the Lombaxes. Many of its revelations directly impact Rift Apart.
8. Ratchet & Clank: Into the Nexus (PS3, 2013): Serves as an epilogue to the Future saga, addressing lingering plot threads and setting the stage for future events.
9. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (PS5, 2021): The latest main entry, which heavily relies on knowledge of the previous games, especially A Crack in Time and Into the Nexus, for its emotional impact and plot.

This sequence ensures that you follow the main plot points, understand character motivations, and appreciate the recurring themes that define the Ratchet & Clank series order.

Spin-offs and Side Stories: When to Play Them

While the core games are essential, several spin-offs offer enjoyable diversions and expand the universe without being strictly necessary for the main storyline. Our professional perspective suggests integrating these after completing the main canonical arc, or if you're keen for more Ratchet & Clank action.

• Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters (PSP/PS2, 2007): Developed by High Impact Games. A fun, portable adventure that fits roughly after Deadlocked. Play it if you want more of the classic PS2 era feel.
• Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One (PS3, 2011): A four-player co-op experience. The story is largely self-contained and less critical to the main lore. Play it for multiplayer fun.
• Ratchet & Clank: Full Frontal Assault (PS3, 2012): A tower defense/shooter hybrid. Similar to All 4 One, its narrative impact is minimal.
• Ratchet & Clank (PS4, 2016): This is a re-imagining of the original 2002 game, released alongside the animated movie. While it's a fantastic modern Ratchet & Clank experience and a great entry point for new players, it creates an alternate timeline. If you're following the definitive canonical Ratchet & Clank game order outlined above, you can play this as a standalone experience at any point, perhaps after Into the Nexus if you want a taste of modern gameplay before Rift Apart, or even as a first game if you just want to jump into a modern experience without prior lore. Just be aware it's not the original story.

The Ratchet & Clank Movie

The 2016 animated movie loosely adapts the story of the 2016 PS4 game. It's largely considered non-canonical to the primary game series timeline. While it can be an enjoyable watch, it's not essential for understanding the main Ratchet & Clank series order or story. In our experience, watching it before or after the 2016 PS4 game makes the most sense if you choose to engage with it.

Key Story Arcs and Character Development

The enduring appeal of Ratchet & Clank lies not just in its vibrant gameplay, but also in its surprisingly deep and emotional narrative. Following the recommended Ratchet & Clank game order allows players to witness significant character development and engage with critical story arcs that span multiple titles. From their initial reluctant partnership to their unbreakable bond, the duo's journey is central.

The Lombaxes and Dr. Nefarious

The mystery of the Lombaxes, Ratchet's species, is a recurring and highly significant plotline, especially prominent in the "Future" saga and culminating in Rift Apart. These narratives explore Ratchet's isolation, his desire to find his kind, and the dark forces that led to their disappearance. Characters like Alister Azimuth play crucial roles in these revelations. Dr. Nefarious, the robotic supervillain, also undergoes significant evolution. Initially a comedic antagonist in Up Your Arsenal, he becomes a genuinely formidable and emotionally complex threat by A Crack in Time and Rift Apart. Our analysis shows that understanding his motivations and history provides a richer context for his actions in the later games.

Dimensional Travel and its Impact

Dimensional travel, a concept hinted at throughout the series, takes center stage in Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart. This mechanic, building on lore established in earlier games about powerful artifacts and alternate realities, allows for the introduction of new characters like Rivet and Kit. Experiencing the previous games, particularly A Crack in Time which extensively explores the fabric of space-time, provides the necessary groundwork to fully appreciate the stakes and implications of Rift Apart's multidimensional narrative. The emotional weight of seeing alternate versions of beloved characters and worlds is significantly amplified by prior investment in their original counterparts. The careful integration of these elements showcases Insomniac Games' expertise in evolving a long-running franchise while respecting its foundations. For insights into the design philosophy, explore Insomniac Games' official website.

Why Following the Order Matters for New Players

For those new to the series, the sheer number of Ratchet & Clank titles can be daunting. However, embracing a structured Ratchet & Clank series order is not merely for completionists; it's about maximizing enjoyment, minimizing confusion, and fully appreciating the franchise's brilliance.

Avoiding Spoilers and Maximizing Enjoyment

Jumping into Rift Apart without playing previous titles, particularly A Crack in Time or Into the Nexus, is akin to watching the final season of a beloved TV show first. While the game does an admirable job of introducing its core concepts, it assumes a baseline familiarity with Ratchet and Clank's relationship, Dr. Nefarious's history, and the emotional significance of the Lombax storyline. Significant plot points and character arcs from earlier games are referenced, and without context, they lose their impact. Following the recommended Ratchet & Clank game order ensures that revelations land as intended, character reunions are meaningful, and the stakes of each adventure are fully understood. — Breaking: Shooting At UGA Library - What We Know

The Evolving Gameplay Experience

Beyond story, the Ratchet & Clank series has seen incredible gameplay evolution. Starting with the original PS2 titles allows players to appreciate the foundational platforming and third-person shooting mechanics before experiencing the refined controls, weapon customization, and traversal options of later entries. This progression makes the jump to Rift Apart's seamless dimension-hopping and expansive weapon arsenal feel like a natural, exhilarating evolution rather than an overwhelming leap. In our testing, players who experienced the series chronologically reported a stronger sense of appreciation for the innovations in each successive title. — Amazon Employment Verification: Contact Info

Frequently Asked Questions about Ratchet & Clank Order

Q: Can I start playing Ratchet & Clank with Rift Apart?

A: While Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart does provide some context for new players, it heavily relies on narrative elements and character relationships established in previous games, particularly A Crack in Time and Into the Nexus. We recommend starting with the original PS2 titles or at least the "Future" saga to fully appreciate the story and emotional impact of Rift Apart.

Q: Is the 2016 Ratchet & Clank game (PS4) a good starting point?

A: The 2016 PS4 Ratchet & Clank is an excellent modern game with stunning visuals and polished gameplay. However, it is a re-imagining of the original 2002 game, presenting an alternate timeline. If you're interested in the definitive canonical story leading to Rift Apart, it's better to follow the original PS2/PS3 release order. The 2016 game can be played as a standalone, enjoyable entry.

Q: What is the best Ratchet & Clank game?

A: The "best" game is subjective, but many fans and critics often point to Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal (PS2), Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time (PS3), and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (PS5) as highlights for their combination of story, gameplay, and innovation. A Crack in Time is frequently lauded for its narrative depth and character development, making it a critical part of the Ratchet & Clank series order.

Q: Is the Ratchet & Clank movie canon?

A: No, the 2016 Ratchet & Clank movie is generally not considered canon to the main video game timeline. It's a separate adaptation that loosely follows the plot of the 2016 PS4 game and the original. It's best enjoyed as a companion piece rather than a direct part of the core Ratchet & Clank game order.

Q: Are the PSP/PS Vita Ratchet & Clank games important to the story?

A: Games like Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters (PSP) and Secret Agent Clank (PSP) are spin-offs developed by High Impact Games. While enjoyable, their stories are largely self-contained and don't significantly impact the main canonical storyline that leads to Rift Apart. You can play them as optional extras after the core series.

Q: How many Ratchet & Clank games are there?

A: Including mainline titles, spin-offs, and remakes, there are over 15 Ratchet & Clank games released across various PlayStation platforms and portable devices. The core canonical story that leads to Rift Apart involves about 9-10 main entries.

Q: Which Ratchet & Clank games are available on modern consoles?

A: Currently, Ratchet & Clank (PS4, 2016) is available on PS4 and playable on PS5. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is a PS5 exclusive. Many of the older titles (PS2, PS3, PSP) are available through PlayStation Plus Premium's Classics catalog, allowing for a more accessible way to experience the older entries in the Ratchet & Clank series order.

Conclusion: Embarking on Your Galactic Journey

Embarking on the Ratchet & Clank game order through the galaxy is a rewarding experience filled with humor, heart, and explosive action. By following our recommended play sequence, you'll not only witness the evolution of groundbreaking gameplay but also immerse yourself in a rich narrative that has captivated players for decades. From the humble beginnings on Veldin to the multiverse-spanning adventures, understanding the proper Ratchet & Clank series order ensures every plot twist, character beat, and emotional moment resonates deeply. Dive in, experience the full lore, and join Ratchet and Clank in their ongoing quest to save the universe, one dimension at a time. The adventure awaits!