A little bit of context
Ratchet & Clank: A Dynamic Duo and Their Collectible Counterparts
Ratchet & Clank, the Lombax mechanic and his robot companion, have been captivating gamers since their PlayStation 2 debut in 2002. Their adventures, filled with over-the-top weaponry, vibrant worlds, and engaging storylines, have made them PlayStation icons. This blog post delves into the history of this dynamic duo, exploring their origins, evolution, and the captivating world they inhabit. We’ll also examine the DC Direct Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time Armored Ratchet Action Figure and other collectibles that bring these beloved characters to life.
A Galactic Journey: The History of Ratchet & Clank
In the early 2000s, Insomniac Games, known for the Spyro the Dragon series, sought to create a new intellectual property for the PlayStation 2. Inspired by classic sci-fi and buddy cop films, they envisioned a space-faring adventure featuring an alien hero and his robotic sidekick1.
The first Ratchet & Clank introduced players to Ratchet, a Lombax mechanic with dreams of exploring the galaxy, and Clank, a small but intelligent robot who crash-landed on Ratchet’s home planet. Together, they set out to stop Chairman Drek, who planned to destroy planets to create a new home for his people1.
The game was a hit, selling millions of copies and receiving praise for its innovative gameplay, vibrant graphics, and humorous writing4. It established a formula that continues to define the series: a vast array of gadgets and weapons, diverse locations, and a compelling narrative. This success laid the foundation for a franchise that would span multiple consoles and generations5.
Interestingly, Ratchet’s character underwent a significant evolution early in the series. Initially portrayed as somewhat of a “jerk,” the writers, with the help of new voice actor James Arnold Taylor, softened his personality to make him more relatable3. This change contributed to the enduring appeal of the Lombax hero.
Over the years, Ratchet & Clank have faced numerous threats, from the robotic Dr. Nefarious to the tyrannical Emperor Tachyon. Their adventures have taken them across the Solana Galaxy and beyond, encountering a colorful cast of characters along the way3. The series has also expanded beyond games, with a comic book series that introduced new villains and storylines7.
| Game | Release Date | Platform(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Ratchet & Clank | November 4, 2002 | PlayStation 2 |
| Ratchet & Clank: Going Commando | November 11, 2003 | PlayStation 2 |
| Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal | November 2, 2004 | PlayStation 2 |
| Ratchet: Deadlocked | October 25, 2005 | PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3 (re-release) |
| Ratchet & Clank: Going Mobile | November 2, 2005 | J2ME Mobile Phone |
| Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters | February 13, 2007 | PlayStation Portable, PlayStation 2 (port) |
| Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction | October 23, 2007 | PlayStation 3 |
| Secret Agent Clank | June 17, 2008 | PlayStation Portable, PlayStation 2 (port) |
| Ratchet & Clank Future: Quest for Booty | August 21, 2008 | PlayStation 3 |
| Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time | October 27, 2009 | PlayStation 3 |
| Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One | October 18, 2011 | PlayStation 3 |
| Ratchet & Clank Collection | August 28, 2012 | PlayStation 3, PlayStation Vita |
| Ratchet & Clank: Full Frontal Assault | November 27, 2012 | PlayStation 3, PlayStation Vita |
| Ratchet & Clank: Into the Nexus | November 12, 2013 | PlayStation 3 |
| Ratchet & Clank | April 12, 2016 | PlayStation 4 |
| Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart | June 11, 2021 | PlayStation 5, Windows (PC port – July 26, 2023) |
The series has evolved with each installment, introducing new gameplay mechanics, expanding the lore, and refining the signature blend of action, platforming, and humor. Insomniac has consistently faced the challenge of balancing innovation with staying true to the core “DNA” of the series3. Ratchet: Deadlocked, for example, shifted the focus heavily towards combat, which, while enjoyable, deviated from the series’ platforming roots. Later entries experimented with co-op gameplay and tower defense elements, showcasing Insomniac’s willingness to explore new ideas within the Ratchet & Clank framework.
Alongside Insomniac’s main series development, High Impact Games, a studio founded by former Insomniac members, developed two spin-off titles for the PlayStation Portable: Size Matters and Secret Agent Clank3. These games brought the Ratchet & Clank experience to the handheld console, further expanding the reach of the franchise.
In 2016, a movie adaptation of the first game was released, reimagining the origin story with some key differences3. This coincided with a reimagining of the original game for the PlayStation 4, incorporating elements from the film’s screenplay.
Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time
Released in 2009, Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time was a pivotal entry in the series. It continued the story from Tools of Destruction and Quest for Booty, with Ratchet searching for Clank, who had been kidnapped by Dr. Nefarious8. This game was intended to be the culmination of the “Future” saga, incorporating all the elements that players loved about Ratchet & Clank3.
The game received critical acclaim for its engaging story, innovative gameplay mechanics, and stunning visuals9. It introduced time-bending puzzles, where Clank could record and replay his actions to solve challenges4. It also featured space exploration, allowing players to freely travel between planets and discover hidden areas4. These additions, along with the deeper character development, further solidified Ratchet & Clank‘s status as PlayStation icons.
Plot Summary
A Crack in Time begins with Clank held captive by Dr. Nefarious, who aims to manipulate time itself. Meanwhile, Ratchet continues his search for Clank, joined by Captain Qwark10.
Clank discovers his connection to the Zoni, mysterious beings who control time, and learns about his destiny as the caretaker of the Great Clock. Ratchet, with the help of a Lombax named Alister Azimuth, uncovers the truth about the Lombaxes’ disappearance and faces a difficult choice between saving his friend and rewriting history9.
The “Future” saga, including A Crack in Time, played a crucial role in expanding the Ratchet & Clank narrative. It delved into the Lombax backstory, revealing their advanced technology and their conflict with the Cragmites6. It also explored Clank’s origins, establishing his connection to the Zoni and his unique role in maintaining the balance of time3.
The game culminates in a showdown with Dr. Nefarious, where Ratchet and Clank must prevent him from altering time and save the universe8.
Friends and Foes
Throughout their adventures, Ratchet and Clank have forged alliances and faced formidable adversaries. These relationships add depth and complexity to the Ratchet & Clank universe.
Allies:
- Captain Qwark: The self-proclaimed superhero of the Solana Galaxy, Captain Qwark is a cowardly and egotistical character who often causes more trouble than he solves. Despite his flaws, he has occasionally aided Ratchet and Clank in their missions2.
- Angela Cross: A Lombax scientist who first appeared in Going Commando, Angela Cross initially worked for Megacorp before joining forces with Ratchet and Clank to stop a dangerous experiment11.
- The Plumber: A mysterious recurring character who appears in various locations throughout the series, offering cryptic advice and fixing things. His true identity and purpose remain unknown12.
Enemies:
- Dr. Nefarious: A robotic madman who despises organic life, Dr. Nefarious is Ratchet and Clank’s arch-nemesis. He has repeatedly attempted to conquer or destroy the galaxy, using his scientific genius and robotic creations3.
- Emperor Tachyon: The last of the Cragmites, Emperor Tachyon sought revenge on the Lombaxes for the demise of his race. He was a formidable adversary in Tools of Destruction, with his advanced technology and ruthless ambition6.
The Sounds of the Galaxy: Music in Ratchet & Clank
The Ratchet & Clank games are known not only for their visuals and gameplay but also for their memorable soundtracks. Composers like David Bergeaud (who scored the original trilogy) and Boris Salchow (who composed for the “Future” saga) have created music that perfectly complements the games’ blend of action, humor, and sci-fi adventure9. The soundtracks feature a mix of orchestral scores, electronic music, and quirky themes that capture the unique personality of each planet and character.
Collectible Companions: Bringing Ratchet & Clank to Life
The popularity of Ratchet & Clank has led to a variety of merchandise, including action figures, statues, and plushies. These collectibles allow fans to bring their favorite characters home and celebrate the vibrant world of the games.
DC Direct Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time Armored Ratchet Action Figure
While specific information on this particular figure is limited, DC Direct has produced a line of Ratchet & Clank action figures based on A Crack in Time9. These figures typically feature detailed sculpts, articulation, and accessories, capturing the essence of the characters and their in-game appearances.
| Figure | Manufacturer | Features | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|---|
| Armored Ratchet with Mr. Zurkon | DC Direct | Detailed sculpt, articulated, accessories | eBay, Walmart |
| Captain Qwark with Scrunch | DC Direct | Detailed sculpt, articulated, accessories | eBay, Walmart |
| Dr. Nefarious with Zoni | DC Direct | Detailed sculpt, articulated, accessories | eBay, Walmart |
| Ratchet with Transforming Clank | DC Direct | Transforming Clank, articulated, accessories | eBay, Walmart |
| Hyperflux Armor Ratchet | DC Direct | Hyperflux Armor, articulated, accessories | eBay |
| Ratchet with Clank (Quest for Booty) | DC Direct | Detailed sculpt, articulated, accessories | eBay |
| Azimuth with Orvus | DC Direct | Detailed sculpt, articulated, accessories | eBay |
| Rusty Pete | DC Direct | Detailed sculpt, articulated, accessories | Walmart |
| The Smuggler | DC Direct | Detailed sculpt, articulated, accessories | eBay |
| Minimates | Minimates | Stylized design, interchangeable parts | eBay |
| Funko Pop! Vinyl | Funko | Oversized head, stylized design | eBay |
These figures offer a tangible way for fans to connect with the Ratchet & Clank universe, bringing the characters and their iconic designs into the real world.
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
The latest installment in the series, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, was released in 2021 for the PlayStation 5. This game takes full advantage of the PS5’s capabilities, introducing stunning visuals, near-instant loading times, and new gameplay mechanics centered around dimensional rifts4.
Rift Apart introduces Rivet, a female Lombax from another dimension who joins forces with Ratchet and Clank to stop a multiversal threat12. The game also features the “Insomniac Museum,” a fun Easter egg that showcases the history of the studio’s games, including Ratchet & Clank, Spyro the Dragon, and Resistance4.
The Future of Ratchet & Clank
Insomniac Games continues to support the Ratchet & Clank franchise. While specific future projects remain under wraps, they have expressed their commitment to the series, suggesting that more interdimensional adventures await Ratchet and Clank5. With the success of Rift Apart and the continued popularity of the franchise, it’s clear that Ratchet and Clank will remain PlayStation icons for years to come.
Conclusion
Ratchet & Clank have become synonymous with PlayStation, captivating gamers with their humor, action, and heartwarming friendship. From their humble beginnings on the PlayStation 2 to their latest interdimensional escapades on the PlayStation 5, the series has consistently delivered innovative gameplay, engaging stories, and memorable characters. A Crack in Time stands as a testament to Insomniac’s dedication to the franchise, providing a satisfying culmination of the “Future” saga while expanding the lore and introducing new gameplay mechanics.
The popularity of Ratchet & Clank has extended beyond the games themselves, with a variety of merchandise allowing fans to further immerse themselves in the universe. Action figures, like the DC Direct Armored Ratchet, provide a tangible connection to the characters and their iconic designs. As Insomniac Games continues to explore new possibilities for the franchise, it’s clear that Ratchet and Clank will continue to entertain and inspire for years to come.
Works cited
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2. Ratchet & Clank (2002 video game) – Wikipedia, accessed January 29, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ratchet_%26_Clank_(2002_video_game)
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4. All Ratchet and Clank Games in Order – Green Man Gaming, accessed January 29, 2025, https://www.greenmangaming.com/blog/all-ratchet-and-clank-games-in-order/
5. Insomniac Games – Wikipedia, accessed January 29, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Insomniac_Games
6. Ratchet & Clank: The Ultimate Story Recap – YouTube, accessed January 29, 2025, https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Ne-0zouGUmo&pp=ygUPI3JhdGNoZWFuZGNsYW5r
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9. Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time – Wikipedia, accessed January 29, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ratchet_%26_Clank_Future:_A_Crack_in_Time
10. Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time (Video Game 2009) – IMDb, accessed January 29, 2025, https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1430111/
11. Ratchet & Clank Collection Characters – Giant Bomb, accessed January 29, 2025, https://www.giantbomb.com/ratchet-clank-collection/3030-37715/characters/
12. Ratchet & Clank: 10 Characters With The Best Back Stories, Ranked, accessed January 29, 2025, https://gamerant.com/ratchet-clank-characters-best-back-stories/
13. The History of Ratchet & Clank – YouTube, accessed January 29, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PgZjS1w152s
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