Are All the Ratchet and Clank Games Backwards Compatible?
No, not all the Ratchet and Clank games are backwards compatible with modern PlayStation consoles (PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5). The level of backwards compatibility varies depending on the specific game and the console in question.
Understanding Backwards Compatibility with Ratchet and Clank
Backwards compatibility, in the context of video games, refers to the ability of a newer console to play games designed for older consoles. This feature allows gamers to revisit their favorite titles from previous generations without needing to keep their old hardware. Unfortunately, Sony’s approach to backwards compatibility has been selective, leading to varying experiences for players wanting to enjoy the Ratchet and Clank series across different PlayStation generations.
The PS2 Era: A Mixed Bag for Backwards Compatibility
The original Ratchet and Clank trilogy, along with Ratchet: Deadlocked and Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters, were all originally released on the PlayStation 2. The backwards compatibility landscape for these games is complex.
- PlayStation 3 (Early Models): The original “fat” PlayStation 3 models (particularly those with the 60GB SKU) were released with full hardware-based backwards compatibility for PS2 games. This meant they contained the actual PS2 hardware inside, allowing for near-perfect emulation. However, these models were discontinued due to manufacturing costs and overheating concerns.
- PlayStation 3 (Later Models): Subsequent PS3 models removed the PS2 hardware, relying on software emulation. While some PS2 games were playable, the compatibility was limited, and many titles, including some Ratchet and Clank games, suffered from graphical glitches, performance issues, or were simply not playable.
- PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5: Neither the PlayStation 4 nor the PlayStation 5 have native hardware-based backwards compatibility for PS2 games. However, Sony has offered some PS2 games as digital downloads through the PlayStation Store, playable via software emulation. The selection is limited, and not all Ratchet and Clank titles are available this way.
- PlayStation Vita/PSP: Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters and Secret Agent Clank originally on the PSP, were available for purchase on the PlayStation Vita via the PlayStation Store.
The PS3 Era: HD Collections and Digital Downloads
The PlayStation 3 saw the release of Ratchet & Clank: Tools of Destruction, Ratchet & Clank Future: Quest for Booty, Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time, and Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One. Additionally, the Ratchet & Clank Collection (HD remaster of the original trilogy) was released on the PS3.
- PlayStation 3: All of these games are natively playable on the PlayStation 3. The Ratchet & Clank Collection provided an excellent way to revisit the classic trilogy with enhanced visuals.
- PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5: None of the PS3-era Ratchet and Clank games are directly backwards compatible with the PS4 or PS5.
- PlayStation Now/Premium (Cloud Streaming): Some PS3-era Ratchet and Clank games were available via PlayStation Now (now PlayStation Plus Premium’s cloud streaming). This allowed players to stream the games to their PS4, PS5, or PC. However, streaming quality depends on internet connection speed and stability.
- PlayStation Plus Premium: Since the restructuring of PlayStation Plus, select PS3-era Ratchet & Clank games are available to stream via PlayStation Plus Premium. Availability may vary by region.
The PS4 and PS5 Era: Remakes and New Adventures
Ratchet & Clank (2016), a reimagining of the original game, was released on the PlayStation 4, along with Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart for the PlayStation 5.
- PlayStation 4: Ratchet & Clank (2016) is natively playable on the PlayStation 4 and is also backwards compatible with the PlayStation 5.
- PlayStation 5: Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is a PlayStation 5 exclusive and takes full advantage of the console’s capabilities. Ratchet & Clank (2016) as mentioned above is also natively backwards compatible with the PlayStation 5.
FAQs: Ratchet and Clank Backwards Compatibility
1. Can I play the original Ratchet and Clank trilogy on PS5?
No, the original Ratchet and Clank trilogy is not directly backwards compatible with the PS5. However, if you have a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription, you might be able to stream the HD Collection version (originally on PS3) depending on regional availability.
2. Is Ratchet & Clank (2016) playable on PS5?
Yes, Ratchet & Clank (2016) is natively playable on the PS5 through backwards compatibility.
3. Can I play Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart on PS4?
No, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is a PlayStation 5 exclusive and cannot be played on the PlayStation 4.
4. Are Ratchet: Deadlocked and Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters available on PS4 or PS5?
No, Ratchet: Deadlocked and Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters are not directly available on the PS4 or PS5 through backwards compatibility or digital purchase.
5. What is the best way to play the original Ratchet and Clank games today?
The best options are either using an original “fat” PS3 model with hardware backwards compatibility (if you can find one in good condition) or subscribing to PlayStation Plus Premium and streaming the Ratchet & Clank Collection (if available in your region).
6. Does Sony plan to release a PS2 Classics version of the original Ratchet and Clank games on PS4/PS5?
Sony has not announced any plans to release PS2 Classics versions of the original Ratchet and Clank games for PS4 or PS5.
7. Can I use my old PS2 Ratchet and Clank discs on my PS5?
No, the PS5 does not have a disc drive compatible with PS2 games.
8. Is cloud streaming a reliable way to play older Ratchet and Clank games?
Cloud streaming quality depends heavily on your internet connection speed and stability. If you have a fast and reliable connection, it can be a viable option. However, you may experience latency or graphical issues.
9. Are there any rumors of a full remake of the original Ratchet and Clank trilogy?
While there’s always speculation, there are no official announcements from Insomniac Games or Sony regarding a full remake of the original Ratchet and Clank trilogy.
10. Will the Ratchet & Clank Future series ever be remastered for PS5?
There is no official confirmation of a remaster for the Ratchet & Clank Future series. However, given the popularity of the franchise, it remains a possibility in the future.
11. What resolution and frame rate do the streamed Ratchet and Clank games run at on PlayStation Plus Premium?
The resolution and frame rate of streamed games can vary but is usually limited to 1080p and 30fps. This may not provide the same visual fidelity as native versions.
12. Are save files transferable between different versions of Ratchet and Clank games (e.g., PS2 to PS3 HD Collection)?
No, save files are generally not transferable between different versions or platforms of Ratchet and Clank games.
13. Is there a way to emulate the PS2 Ratchet and Clank games on PC?
Yes, it’s possible to emulate PS2 games on PC using emulators like PCSX2. However, this requires obtaining ROMs, which may be subject to copyright restrictions.
14. Where can I buy physical copies of the Ratchet and Clank games that are not digitally available?
You can often find physical copies of older Ratchet and Clank games on online marketplaces like eBay or through used game retailers.
15. Which Ratchet and Clank game should I play first if I’m new to the series?
Ratchet & Clank (2016) is an excellent starting point for newcomers, as it reimagines the original game and offers a modern gameplay experience. Alternatively, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart on PS5 is also a great entry point that showcases the series’ charm and technical prowess.