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Not wanting to just produce a Jak and Daxter 2 (which might still come around some time, although) the developers replaced the two heroes with a new, similar couple and a new story and universe.
Ratchet, space ship mechanic by profession, meets Clank a self-conscientious robot who is desperately seeking help in his quest to stop evil Chairman Drek, ruler of the neighbouring planet Blechworld from realizing a most sinister plan: because his own planet was destroyed by pollution and waste of resources he wants to create a new world out of the best pieces of all planets of the galaxy. That “removing” pieces from their planets means certain doom for the local population, is a side-effect Drek happily ignores.
In no time you will notice that the two titles are related – and a relationship to Jak and Daxter can’t be a bad thing. The controls, the elements of gameplay, the enemies, the crazy (and very funny) story full of running gags - if you played Jak and Daxter you will feel “at home” in no time - but at the same time it is something totally new.
Besides the obvious things like a new story line, new characters, enemies and new locations Ratchet and Clank can offer much more. The graphics, detailed and varied already in the predecessor, became even brighter and more colourful and more different enemies with various unique attack patterns give the game the finishing touch.
The biggest and most important feature though is guns. Lots of guns. While Jak mostly relied on whirling kicks and a few special attacks when “powered up” by elemental energy to defend himself, Ratchet has many ways of defending himself. And I mean many. During his quest Ratchet can collect, buy and earn enough different weapons to equip a medium-sized army. Wrenches, Blasters, Guns, Cannons, Automated Missile Systems, Bombs, tiny Killer Robots – you name it, Ratchet has it. Trying to obtain all the gadgets and weapons in the game alone is already enough to entertain you for days. Clank on the other hand, a peace-loving little robot (no realtionship to Daxter from Jak & Daxter here) leaves the fighting to Ratchet but can come in handy in certain levels. Besides special Clank levels, Insomniac came up with a few optional features: Heli Pack, Jet Pack, ... - optional equipment for futuristic robots.
Graphics, Sound & Gameplay:
Although some of you will call me lazy, why should I waste your time with lengthy descriptions of the pros and cons of the audio-visual presentation if the three components can be summed up in one word: great. The graphics are detailed in every level, while every enemy fits perfectly into the picture. The huge weapons arsenal brings gameplay to a new level, the story is entertaining and often gives you a good laugh. Some jumping puzzles *can* be frustrating but in most cases you will get the hang of it after two or three tries - various missions on numerous planets can be challenging but it keeps you motivated for a long time.
Ratchet and Clank offers many improvements over the already good title from former Barking Dog Studios. If you liked Jak and Daxter, what are you waiting for?
