Are They Making More Ratchet and Clank? The Future of the Beloved Franchise
The short answer is: while nothing is officially announced as of today, it’s highly likely that we will see more Ratchet and Clank games in the future. Although Insomniac Games is currently deeply involved with Marvel projects like Spider-Man and Wolverine, the Ratchet and Clank franchise remains a significant and beloved part of their history and Sony’s PlayStation ecosystem. Given the success of Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, both critically and commercially, it wouldn’t make sense for Sony and Insomniac to abandon the series entirely. While a new game isn’t imminent, the demand and legacy strongly suggest a future installment is in the works, or at least being considered, possibly after the studio’s obligations to Marvel are met.
Ratchet and Clank: A Legacy of Innovation and Fun
The Ratchet and Clank franchise has been a mainstay of PlayStation consoles for over two decades, consistently delivering a blend of engaging gameplay, quirky humor, and stunning visuals. From its humble beginnings on the PlayStation 2 to its current iteration on the PlayStation 5 and PC, the series has consistently evolved, introducing new characters, weapons, and mechanics while maintaining the core charm that fans have come to love. The franchise’s ability to blend action, platforming, and puzzle-solving elements has made it a favorite among gamers of all ages. Let’s explore some of the important topics around the future of this beloved game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Ratchet and Clank’s Future
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to shed more light on the future of the Ratchet and Clank franchise.
1. Is a new Ratchet and Clank game coming soon?
Unfortunately, as of late 2024, there is no official announcement regarding a new Ratchet and Clank game. Insomniac Games is currently focused on their Marvel projects, but that doesn’t mean Ratchet and Clank is dead. Keep an eye on future PlayStation showcases for potential announcements.
2. Will Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart be the only PS5 title?
While Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is currently the only title on the PS5, it’s unlikely to remain that way. The success and popularity of the franchise strongly suggest that Insomniac will revisit the series on the current generation of consoles. It’s a flagship title that showcases the PS5’s capabilities.
3. Is Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart a success?
Yes, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart has been a critical and commercial success for Sony. It was praised for its stunning visuals, innovative gameplay mechanics, and engaging story. The PC port, while seeing fluctuating player numbers, further expanded its reach.
4. Did Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart get any DLC?
Yes, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart received a 20th Anniversary Armor Pack DLC, which included armor inspired by previous games in the series. This celebrated the franchise’s milestone and provided fans with nostalgic content.
5. What should we expect after Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart?
It’s difficult to say for sure, but a new Ratchet and Clank game could explore new planets, characters, and gameplay mechanics. The franchise has always been known for its innovation, so it’s likely that any future installment will push the boundaries of what’s possible in the action-platformer genre.
6. Is the 2016 Ratchet and Clank game a reboot?
Yes, the 2016 Ratchet and Clank game is a remake of the first game in the series and a tie-in to the animated film of the same name. It retells the origin story of Ratchet and Clank in a modern context.
7. Is there a bad Ratchet and Clank game?
While most Ratchet and Clank games are well-received, Ratchet and Clank: Full Frontal Assault is often considered the weakest entry in the series. Its tower defense elements were not as popular as the traditional action-platforming gameplay.
8. How long does it take to 100% complete a Ratchet and Clank game?
The time it takes to 100% complete a Ratchet and Clank game varies, but it generally takes around 23 hours for most entries. This includes completing all story missions, side quests, and collecting all the various collectibles.
9. Is Rift Apart a sequel to other Ratchet and Clank games?
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is a sequel to both Ratchet & Clank: Into the Nexus and the 2016 remake Ratchet & Clank. It features a stand-alone storyline that is accessible to newcomers while also providing a continuation of the series’ overarching narrative.
10. Why was Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart not released on PS4?
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart was designed to take full advantage of the PS5’s hardware capabilities, particularly its ultra-fast NVMe SSD. This allowed for seamless dimension-hopping and a level of visual fidelity that would not have been possible on the PS4.
11. What happened to the Lombaxes?
The Lombaxes were once revered as heroes, but they largely vanished from the universe after a conflict with Emperor Tachyon, a surviving Cragmite seeking revenge. Their fate is a key part of the series’ lore.
12. Is the new Ratchet and Clank only on PS5?
Initially, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart was a PS5 exclusive, but it was later released on PC in July 2023. This made the game accessible to a wider audience.
13. Is Ratchet and Clank All 4 One a spin-off?
Yes, Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One is a spin-off from the main series. It features cooperative gameplay and a different style of story and level design compared to the core Ratchet and Clank games.
14. Which is the shortest Ratchet and Clank game?
According to available data, Ratchet & Clank: Going Mobile is often cited as the shortest game, offering only about an hour of gameplay. However, this is a mobile title, with console games such as Ratchet & Clank: Quest for Booty being among the shortest in that category.
15. Who is the main villain in Ratchet and Clank?
While the main villain varies from game to game, Dr. Nefarious is a recurring antagonist in the Ratchet and Clank series. He is a mad scientist and the archenemy of Ratchet and Clank, constantly scheming to take over the galaxy.
The Significance of Ratchet and Clank
The Ratchet and Clank franchise isn’t just a collection of games; it’s a cultural touchstone for many PlayStation gamers. The characters are memorable, the worlds are vibrant, and the gameplay is consistently engaging. It has stood the test of time by adapting and innovating with each installment, making it a series that appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers alike. In addition, research has shown that games can aid in learning and development. Organizations like the Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org) explore how games can positively impact education and skill-building, and the Ratchet and Clank series, with its problem-solving and strategic gameplay, undoubtedly contributes to this area.
Conclusion: A Promising Future (Eventually)
While an official announcement might not be imminent, the future of the Ratchet and Clank franchise looks promising. The success of Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart has proven that there is still a strong demand for these types of games. While Insomniac Games is focusing on their Marvel projects, the love for Ratchet and Clank combined with the financial gains this franchise generates suggest we’ll see more adventures in the future. The duo’s legacy on the Playstation ecosystem is undeniable. So, keep your Omniwrenches handy, folks – Ratchet and Clank will likely be back for another intergalactic adventure!