There are gaming franchises which define certain genres; for example, when you think of platforming via Nintendo, Mario should immediately spring to mind. For Playstation devotees and PS3 owners, platforming fun is synonymous with the Ratchet and Clank series. Unlike a host of other IP’s, Ratchet and Clank have stood the test of time and are still going strong as evidenced by this excellent HD collection of titles. What makes Ratchet and Clank so different from the rest, you ask? It could be their unique weaponry, environments or foes, or perhaps the fact that R&C has always been open to including RPG elements and/or the interesting bits from contemporary 3rd person action titles; whatever the reason, this series has definitely proven itself.
This latest release takes the first 3 Ratchet and Clank titles and redefines them from a graphical standpoint as well as that of gameplay. Aside from the quirky characters, unique level design or the “nostalgia factor” of being able to go back and relive the magic of these games, what you have here are 3 incredibly fun games for the price of 1. We’re not talking about a generic and sloppy re-skinning here, this trilogy looks, sounds and handles much better than you might expect it to.
Visuals
First off, the Ratchet and Clank Trilogy looks fantastic, it chugs on at a steady 60 fps with virtually no clipping or glitches to speak of. While this release isn’t going to wow in the same way that a top-tier PS3 title might, the graphics are somewhat comparable. The Sony studio responsible for updating these 3 wonderful games deserves a commendation for the job they’ve done here. In fact, the visuals are almost as nice as some of the more recent Ratchet and Clank titles; definitely improves the experience from a gaming point of view.
Gameplay
While there’s certainly not a world of difference in terms of gameplay between earlier versions of these games and that of the PS3, there are some noticeable improvements. Aside from a much sharper presentation, there is perhaps a feeling of increased character control over earlier builds. The multiplayer capabilities found in Ratchet and Clank 3 has been upgraded as well.
Additionally, there are loads of secret areas, trophies and treasures to locate and unlock; this trilogy delivers everything and more when it comes to a fully developed gameplay experience. What more can be said? This collection is a great example of what a platforming titles should do; the fact that there are 3 games to explore just makes it that much more enticing.
Verdict
If you are a fan of the series, enjoy fun games, platformers, or just happen to own a PS3, you should strongly consider picking this compilation up. The Ratchet and Clank HD trilogy is a very strong title in virtually every category. Even after you strip away the value of the package itself (a 3-for-1 deal), the pleasant feelings of nostalgia this game invokes is (alone) worth the price of admission. In short, if you don’t buy this game, you’re really missing out on a great experience.