Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Unlockable Bancho Ratchet is one bad mother... shut your mouth!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/unlockable-bancho-ratchet-is-one-bad-mother-shut-your-mouth/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/unlockable-bancho-ratchet-is-one-bad-mother-shut-your-mouth/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/unlockable-bancho-ratchet-is-one-bad-mother-shut-your-mouth/#comments We're just talkin' about Ratchet. Insomniac is sending some pre-Valentine's love by giving players the unlock code for the Bancho Ratchet skin. Already hidden inside A Crack in Time, the bad boy costume can be unlocked by inputting this elaborate series of buttons and directions on the pause screen: Up, Right, Down, Left, Triangle, Square, X, Circle, R3. It's called a "cheat."

Bancho Ratchet was the winning entry in a Japan-only contest for CoroCoro Magazine. As for what a Bancho is, the best explanation we can figure is a "delinquent," especially with Ratchet's resemblance to John Travolta's character in Grease. Well, if you ignore the flippin' huge ears.

[Thanks, Solace]

JoystiqUnlockable Bancho Ratchet is one bad mother... shut your mouth! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Feb 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banchoinsomniacratchetratchet-and-clankratchet-and-clank-futureratchet-and-clank-future-a-crack-in-timeWed, 03 Feb 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ratchet & Clank crack two demos this time around]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/ratchet-and-clank-crack-two-demos-this-time-around/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/ratchet-and-clank-crack-two-demos-this-time-around/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/ratchet-and-clank-crack-two-demos-this-time-around/#comments
The troubled sleepers of Insomniac Games want to make sure you play the upcoming Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time. The developers announced during their latest Full Moon Show podcast that the upcoming time-bending platformer will receive not one -- but two -- downloadable demos before the game's release. It certainly makes sense, considering how drastically different the traditional Ratchet gameplay is from the more puzzle-oriented Clank sections of the game.

Both demos should hit the PlayStation Store before the game's upcoming late-October release date, giving players plenty of time to explore these free samplers.

[Via PS3center]

JoystiqRatchet & Clank crack two demos this time around originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-crack-in-timedemoinsomniac-gamespsnratchetratchet-and-clankFri, 02 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[It's like you're playing Ratchet & Clank's Axiom City level]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/22/its-like-youre-playing-ratchet-and-clanks-axiom-city-level/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/22/its-like-youre-playing-ratchet-and-clanks-axiom-city-level/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/22/its-like-youre-playing-ratchet-and-clanks-axiom-city-level/#commentsMany of you are eagerly awaiting the upcoming A Crack in Time -- and for good reason too, it's pretty fantastic (from what we've played so far). With a game's release still a month away, this new video walkthrough from the PlayStation.blog may be the closest thing to playing the game yourself. Insomniac's James Stevenson talks about the many returning (and new) weapons featured in this final part of the R&C Future trilogy. Which is your favorite?

JoystiqIt's like you're playing Ratchet & Clank's Axiom City level originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-crack-in-timeinsomniac-gamesratchetratchet-and-clankratchet-and-clank-future-a-crack-in-timeTue, 22 Sep 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A familiar trek through Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/a-familiar-trek-through-ratchet-and-clank-future-a-crack-in-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/a-familiar-trek-through-ratchet-and-clank-future-a-crack-in-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/a-familiar-trek-through-ratchet-and-clank-future-a-crack-in-time/#commentsInsomniac Games has a winning formula with its Ratchet & Clank franchise. Problem is? They're almost too reliably good. The franchise has been known for its mix of platforming and sci-fi gunplay, and the latest, A Crack in Time, is no different. The requisite improvements necessary for a sequel are all in play: better (and more stylized) graphics, more explosions, and even more powerful weapons. However, A Crack in Time has a genuine chance of being the best Ratchet & Clank ever, thanks to its increased focus on challenging platform stages.

The weapons have always been the stars of the franchise, but A Crack in Time's time-bending theme makes for some interesting and ingenious moments that are, put simply, fun. You've already read about the unique Clank stages, in which players must record copies of themselves to solve puzzles. These interludes make for a far more thoughtful game than previous iterations in the franchise and emphasize the kind of depth Insomniac is trying to add to the experience.

Gallery: Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time

Continue reading A familiar trek through Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time

JoystiqA familiar trek through Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-crack-in-timeinsomniacratchetratchet-and-clankratchet-and-clank-futureFri, 11 Sep 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time box art multiplayer listing simply 'placeholder']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/ratchet-and-clank-future-a-crack-in-time-box-art-multiplayer-list/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/ratchet-and-clank-future-a-crack-in-time-box-art-multiplayer-list/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/ratchet-and-clank-future-a-crack-in-time-box-art-multiplayer-list/#comments
Click to embiggen.
The PlayStation.Blog has announced the release date for Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time. But wait -- isn't that, as commenters like to point out, old news? Thankfully, more can be gleamed from the box art included with the post.

In addition to touting the redesigned PS3 logo, the box art for A Crack in Time features the now-standard PlayStation Network banner on the back. The various PSN features include Trophies, PlayStation Home support, leaderboards and ... multiplayer? That's certainly new to us.

Unfortunately, a SCEA representative confirmed to us that the box art posted on the web was constructed from a template and that all information listed in the PSN banner is simply placeholder. That doesn't mean A Crack in Time won't have multiplayer -- but it means that this is far from the "omg confirmationz!!!!1" that many have been hoping for. Update: SCEA's Jefferson Dong puts it more directly: "There is no multiplayer."

[Thanks, tmacairjordan87]

JoystiqRatchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time box art multiplayer listing simply 'placeholder' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-crack-in-timeboxartinsomniacmultiplayerpsnratchetratchet-and-clankratchet-and-clank-futureWed, 02 Sep 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Exploring space exploration in Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/exploring-space-exploration-in-ratchet-and-clank-future-a-crack-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/exploring-space-exploration-in-ratchet-and-clank-future-a-crack-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/exploring-space-exploration-in-ratchet-and-clank-future-a-crack-i/#comments
Click to embiggen.
It's time for the dynamic duo to go into space! No, we're not talking about Batman and Robin. Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time will expand the space exploration elements of Tools of Destruction by replacing the on-rails shooter sequences with an open universe to traverse through. Players will be able to stop on various moons and small planets and partake in spherical platforming sequences inspired by Super Mario Galaxy er, Ratchet & Clank: Going Commando.

We're not entirely sure how big the explorable galaxy will be, but we're sure platforming freaks are excited of the prospect of a universe's worth of fetch quests. With battles scattered throughout space, we're hopeful that Insomniac has the insight to make the universe a tad more exciting than the oceans of The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker.

Continue reading Exploring space exploration in Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time

JoystiqExploring space exploration in Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-crack-in-timeinsomniacratchetratchet-and-clankFri, 28 Aug 2009 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Clank's mysterious past explained in new Gamescom trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/18/clanks-mysterious-past-explained-in-new-gamescom-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/18/clanks-mysterious-past-explained-in-new-gamescom-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/18/clanks-mysterious-past-explained-in-new-gamescom-trailer/#comments The story started in Tools of Destruction comes to an epic conclusion in A Crack in Time, the end of the first Ratchet & Clank Future trilogy. This new trailer released in time for Gamescom delves into the intricate time-bending story, and shows the surprising importance of Clank's role in the universe. Looks like the stakes have never been bigger before in a R&C game. Watch carefully, and you'll see a planet explode real nice in this trailer.

A Crack in Time will reunite a lot of familiar faces. We're just glad Captain Quark is back (he was absent in Quest For Booty). Certainly, his bumbling antics will get even more crazy when time travel is involved!

Gallery: Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time (GamesCom 2009)

JoystiqClank's mysterious past explained in new Gamescom trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-crack-in-timegamescom-2009ratchetratchet-and-clankratchet-and-clank-futureTue, 18 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch Clank use time to defeat his enemies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/watch-clank-use-time-to-defeat-his-enemies/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/watch-clank-use-time-to-defeat-his-enemies/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/watch-clank-use-time-to-defeat-his-enemies/#commentsIt's that time of the year folks. Yep, Insomniac is churning out yet another Ratchet game. This time around, Clank will have the magical ability to control time, as you can see in this new video released in time for Comic-Con. The graphics, as you can tell from our gallery below, look absolutely stunning. Who knew that Insomniac could improve upon the first Future game so much? The new time-warping gameplay looks like a fun, and logical, addition to the Ratchet universe. But, that's not all!

Insomniac took the time to explain a brand new weapon that'll be introduced in the upcoming game -- the one created by fans. You'll have to watch the video after the break to find out exactly what it is.

Continue reading Watch Clank use time to defeat his enemies

JoystiqWatch Clank use time to defeat his enemies originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-crack-in-timeratchetratchet-and-clankFri, 24 Jul 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Insomniac reveals top 10 favorite Ratchet & Clank weapons]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/insomniac-reveals-their-top-10-favorite-randc-weapons/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/insomniac-reveals-their-top-10-favorite-randc-weapons/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/insomniac-reveals-their-top-10-favorite-randc-weapons/#comments The Ratchet & Clank series is known for its wacky weapons. But what do the people that created the franchise think about them? What are their favorites?

Well, here you go. Insomniac Games have revealed their top 10 favorite weapons from the entire Ratchet & Clank franchise. What will make number one? You'll just have to watch to find out.

Insomniac's fan-made weapons contest is also drawing to a close. The PlayStation.Blog reveals more information on the finalists, and how you can vote for your top pick. The finalist will be revealed at San Diego Comic-Con later this year.

JoystiqInsomniac reveals top 10 favorite Ratchet & Clank weapons originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>insomniacinsomniac-gamesratchetratchet-and-clankweaponsMon, 20 Apr 2009 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ratchet & Clank continue adventures in 'A Crack in Time' [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/26/ratchet-and-clank-continues-episodic-adventure-in-a-crack-in-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/26/ratchet-and-clank-continues-episodic-adventure-in-a-crack-in-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/26/ratchet-and-clank-continues-episodic-adventure-in-a-crack-in-time/#comments
As promised, Ratchet and Clank are coming back to PS3 this fall. Continuing the story from where Quest for Booty left off, Ratchet is on a mission to save Clank from the evil Dr. Nefarious. Through the time-traveling adventure, both of our heroes will discover secrets about their origins, their destinies and (presumably) their old, polygon-deprived character models.

No specifics have been revealed on price nor distribution, but A Crack in Time may again release as a downloadable PlayStation Network title at a budget price. (Quest for Booty launched at $15.) We've contacted Insomniac Games for more information, so stay tuned.

Update: The PlayStation.Blog has updated with new details, confirming the A Crack in Time will be a "full Blu-ray release." GT TV will feature the debut trailer this weekend.

JoystiqRatchet & Clank continue adventures in 'A Crack in Time' [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Mar 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crack-in-timeinsomniacinsomniac-gamespsnratchetratchet-and-clankThu, 26 Mar 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Quest for Booty no longer getting Blu-ray release in UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/quest-for-booty-no-longer-getting-blu-ray-release-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/quest-for-booty-no-longer-getting-blu-ray-release-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/quest-for-booty-no-longer-getting-blu-ray-release-in-uk/#commentsFiled under:


According to British Gaming, the upcoming Blu-ray release of Ratchet & Clank: Quest for Booty has been canned in the UK, making the 3 hour Ratchet episode a download-exclusive game, just like in the US. That means fans in the UK will have to make the 2+GB download to play the game. It's currently available for £9.99 on the PS Store.

This cancellation doesn't affect other European territories, however. The Blu-ray version of Quest for Booty will head to other countries, unscathed.

See also: Review: Quest for Booty

[Thanks, Dougall J.!]

JoystiqQuest for Booty no longer getting Blu-ray release in UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Sep 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>quest-for-bootyratchetThu, 11 Sep 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Fanboy review: Ratchet & Clank Future: Quest for Booty]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/ps3-fanboy-review-ratchet-and-clank-future-quest-for-booty/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/ps3-fanboy-review-ratchet-and-clank-future-quest-for-booty/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/ps3-fanboy-review-ratchet-and-clank-future-quest-for-booty/#commentsFiled under: ,


We have to applaud the fine folks at Insomniac for trying something new on the PSN. Somehow, they've managed to bring out a brand new Ratchet game, just one year after the release of the first PS3 incarnation, Tools of Destruction. Quest for Booty is a direct continuation of the previous game, but can be played without any experience with the franchise at all. The developers have promised 3-4 hours of gameplay, at a budget price of $15. However, is Quest for Booty worth your hard earned cash? Depends on how much you like the Ratchet franchise.

Although it may have a budget price, the presentation easily matches any full-priced console game. The visuals of Quest for Booty are actually superior to the ones found in last year's game. The water, for example, looks far more captivating in this installment. The lighting seems to be enhanced, and the lush color palette found for most of the game really looks quite stunning in HD. The voice actors all make their return, and Ratchet and friends are animated just as sharply as they always have been.

Continue reading PS3 Fanboy review: Ratchet & Clank Future: Quest for Booty

JoystiqPS3 Fanboy review: Ratchet & Clank Future: Quest for Booty originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>joystiqfeaturesquest-for-bootyratchetratchet-and-clankTue, 19 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Yes, there will be more Ratchet & Clank in Fall 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/yes-there-will-be-more-ratchet-and-clank-in-fall-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/yes-there-will-be-more-ratchet-and-clank-in-fall-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/yes-there-will-be-more-ratchet-and-clank-in-fall-2009/#commentsFiled under:


So, what happens after you beat the 3-4 hours of adventuring to be found in the upcoming Quest for Booty? Well, you'll get a tease for yet another Ratchet & Clank adventure in Fall 2009! The series looks to be turning into an annual affair -- but will it be yet another small taste of R&C, or will it be a full-length feature, a la Tools of Destruction?

Stay tuned for our full review of Quest for Booty next week.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqYes, there will be more Ratchet & Clank in Fall 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Aug 2008 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>quest-for-bootyratchetratchet-and-clankFri, 15 Aug 2008 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ratchet & Clank: Quest for Booty clocks in at 2.3GB]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/ratchet-and-clank-quest-for-booty-clocks-in-at-2-3gb/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/ratchet-and-clank-quest-for-booty-clocks-in-at-2-3gb/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/ratchet-and-clank-quest-for-booty-clocks-in-at-2-3gb/#commentsFiled under:


Click for high-resolution image.

The upcoming PSN-exclusive follow-up to the successful Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction will be available for the masses soon: August 21st, to be exact. Many have been wondering how large the download would be, considering Tools of Destruction took advantage of the incredible space offered by Blu-ray. Those interested in downloading the upcoming game should know that Quest for Booty clocks in at slightly over 2GB, or 2.3GB to be precise.

While that's a large download, that's only slightly larger than most episodes of Qore and a few demos. Hopefully, it'll take longer to play the game (about 3-4 hours) than it does to download it.

JoystiqRatchet & Clank: Quest for Booty clocks in at 2.3GB originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Aug 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>quest-for-bootyratchetratchet-and-clankTue, 12 Aug 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SCEE boss promises more 'day and date' releases with SCEA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/scee-boss-promises-more-day-and-date-releases-with-scea/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/scee-boss-promises-more-day-and-date-releases-with-scea/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/scee-boss-promises-more-day-and-date-releases-with-scea/#commentsFiled under:


Click for high-resolution image.

Many European gamers have been frustrated by the inexplicable delays of games in Europe. Yes, there are localization issues, but when a title like echochrome, which features very little text, releases weeks after its American counterpart, people seemingly have the right to complain.

Grilled at a recent E3 cocktail, SCEE boss David Reeves told Eurogamer that "every relevant title that SCEA announced for America will also be introduced to the PAL territories - most of them day and date." Even newly revealed titles like Ratchet & Clank: The Quest for Booty (pictured, above) will arrive in Europe ... although a Blu-ray version of that game will be available in PAL regions as well.

MotorStorm Pacific Rift, LittleBigPlanet, Siren: Blood Curse, Resistance 2 are all promised to show up on European PS3 systems before the end of March 2009.

JoystiqSCEE boss promises more 'day and date' releases with SCEA originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david-reevese308europequest-for-bootyratchetratchet-and-clanksceeThu, 17 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ratchet & Clank Future: Quest for Booty at ESRB]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/ratchet-and-clank-future-quest-for-booty-at-esrb/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/ratchet-and-clank-future-quest-for-booty-at-esrb/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/ratchet-and-clank-future-quest-for-booty-at-esrb/#commentsFiled under:


One of our sharp-eyed readers spotted an interesting listing on the ESRB website: a listing for Rachet & Clank Future: Quest for Booty, which has been an open secret since we have found previous evidence suggesting its existence. All signs point to it being a PSN download, but it is still unclear whether this will just an add-on for Ratchet & Clank Future or it can be played as a stand-alone game. With this ESRB listing, it shouldn't be long before we hear official word from Insomniac.

[Thanks, Tom G.!]

JoystiqRatchet & Clank Future: Quest for Booty at ESRB originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>quest-for-bootyratchetratchet-and-clankMon, 07 Jul 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The quest for booty continues in Ratchet & Clank: En Busca del Tesoro]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/the-quest-for-booty-continues-in-ratchet-and-clank-en-busca-del-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/the-quest-for-booty-continues-in-ratchet-and-clank-en-busca-del-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/the-quest-for-booty-continues-in-ratchet-and-clank-en-busca-del-t/#commentsFiled under:


Months ago, a rumored PSN release list showed a game called Ratchet & Clank: Quest for Booty. Since then, we haven't heard much about this potential game, but a recently uncovered Spanish logo suggests that this is the real deal. En Busca Del Tesoro also refers to treasure, and may expand upon the fun pirate themes of Tools of Destruction. According to the Spanish release, this PSN downloadable will provide new adventures for our favorite robot-lombax duo.

From the looks of things, this content may be playable without a copy of Ratchet & Clank Future. Now, all we have to do is wait for Insomniac to officially spill the beans. Check out a Spanish-language clip of Ratchet & Clank, after the cut.

[Via NeoGAF]

Continue reading The quest for booty continues in Ratchet & Clank: En Busca del Tesoro

JoystiqThe quest for booty continues in Ratchet & Clank: En Busca del Tesoro originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>quest-for-bootyratchetratchet-and-clankWed, 04 Jun 2008 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Secret Agent Clank: brand new screenshots]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/secret-agent-clank-brand-new-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/secret-agent-clank-brand-new-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/secret-agent-clank-brand-new-screenshots/#commentsFiled under:


Click for full-resolution image.

If a picture can tell a thousand words, then we have 13,000 new words to say about Secret Agent Clank. This upcoming PSP-exclusive adventure has players returning to the world of Ratchet & Clank. Be amazed at Clank's surprising arsenal of ninja moves in these explosive screenshots. While it might not feature the same sheen as other PSP titles like God of War, we're confident that the team at High Impact can squeeze some more, er, impact, out of the PSP before its release.

JoystiqSecret Agent Clank: brand new screenshots originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>high-impact-gamesratchetsecret-agent-clankTue, 15 Apr 2008 18:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters drops to Greatest Hits price]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/07/ratchet-and-clank-size-matters-drops-to-greatest-hits-price/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/07/ratchet-and-clank-size-matters-drops-to-greatest-hits-price/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/07/ratchet-and-clank-size-matters-drops-to-greatest-hits-price/#commentsFiled under:


The Greatest Hits line-up continues to grow. Well, at least according to amazon.com and Best Buy. Greatest Hits games are available at a budget price of $20. If you didn't pick up Size Matters yet, this is a great time to pick up a copy. Our review was quite favorable on Ratchet's first PSP outing -- at $20, it's a stellar deal.

This price drop seems appropriately timed to get PSP fans ready for the upcoming Secret Agent Clank, another PSP follow-up to the always-popular Ratchet franchise.

[Thanks, MikkoH.!]

JoystiqRatchet & Clank: Size Matters drops to Greatest Hits price originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Apr 2008 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>greatest-hitsratchetratchet-and-clanksize-mattersMon, 07 Apr 2008 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[See a few Ratchet & Clank Future mishaps]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/28/see-a-few-ratchet-and-clank-future-mishaps/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/28/see-a-few-ratchet-and-clank-future-mishaps/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/28/see-a-few-ratchet-and-clank-future-mishaps/#commentsFiled under:

Despite Ratchet & Clank: Future being one of the very best games currently available on the PS3, it's certainly not without a few quirks. Courtesy of Project Mod Gaming, we're shown a few in particular. Pretty silly video with some decent tunes to back it up.

And before anyone says so, yes, it's been a pretty slow news day.

JoystiqSee a few Ratchet & Clank Future mishaps originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Dec 2007 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>glitchesmishapsratchetratchet-and-clankratchet-and-clank-futurevideoFri, 28 Dec 2007 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters gets ported to PS2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/rumor-ratchet-and-clank-size-matters-gets-ported-to-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/rumor-ratchet-and-clank-size-matters-gets-ported-to-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/rumor-ratchet-and-clank-size-matters-gets-ported-to-ps2/#commentsFiled under: ,

What's a system without exclusives? Sony is supposedly porting the former PSP exclusive Ratchet & Clank title, Size Matters to the PS2. This isn't the first time a major PSP game has jumped ship. Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror and Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories are some big examples of previous titles. However, should PSP owners get angry about this predicament? Not really. This game will be nearly a year old by its supposed February 2008 release, and PSP owners should be fixed on a much more important platform exclusive: God of War: Chains of Olympus. It's a trend that shouldn't be encouraged too much. Already, games like Silent Hill Origins are rumored to be heading to PS2 as well. PSP owners should be comforted by months of exclusivity and the ability to play these games on the go.

Of course, maybe these companies wouldn't port these games to the PS2 if PSP owners actually bothered to, y'know, buy them.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqRumor: Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters gets ported to PS2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Dec 2007 23:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>portps2ratchetsize-mattersFri, 14 Dec 2007 23:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters expanding to PS2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/ratchet-and-clank-size-matters-expands-to-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/ratchet-and-clank-size-matters-expands-to-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/ratchet-and-clank-size-matters-expands-to-ps2/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The blending of the PS2 and PSP continues as PSP's Ratchet and Clank: Size Matters appears to be marked for PS2 release early next year. A GameStop listing says the game is expected Feb. 12, '08 for $30, but consider this a placeholder for now.

Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters would join a solid list of games that made the jump from PSP to the PS2. Most famously at this point are the ports of GTA: Vice City Stories and GTA: Liberty City Stories, both of which ended up on the PS2 at the delicious consumer-friendly price of $20. We wouldn't mind seeing God of War: Chains of Olympus make the PS2 leap by holiday '08 -- but let's just get the thing out on PSP first.

JoystiqRumor: Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters expanding to PS2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Dec 2007 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clankPS2ps3ratchetratchetandclankFri, 14 Dec 2007 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Today in Joystiq: November 12, 2007]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/today-in-joystiq-november-12-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/today-in-joystiq-november-12-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/today-in-joystiq-november-12-2007/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Joystiq reader hex08 sends us this image highlighting the differences between the US and Japanese versions of Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction. (Also enjoy this Japanese commercial.) It should be noted, however, that this isn't the first time Ratchet has been visually modified for regional preferences. Check out the highlights for today:

Joystiquery
Mario brings his sexy back at 'Galaxy' launch party

News
Game designer talks rebalancing Street Fighter 2 HD
New games this week: Super Mario Galaxy edition
Volleyball, Axelay, Blue's Journey all skulk onto Virtual Console
Whoops! Tesco sells Xbox 360s for £33.24
Peter Molyneux's Populous coming to Nintendo DS
Newell: Prince of Persia 'not a video game movie'
Thrill as the DualShock 3 is unboxed!
Unreal Tournament 3 multiplayer powered by GameSpy
New York Times on tough times for game mags
Mass Effect love scene now less safe for work
Banjo-Kazooie not cancelled ... so what is?
This Wednesday: Shrek 'n Roll 'n Screwjumper 'ngage XBLA
NPD to continue providing monthly console sales data
Non-profit group buying games for soldiers
Infinity Ward addressing Call of Duty 4 PS3 matchmaking issues
'What They Play' keeps parents in the loop
MTV Games confirms Rock Band delay for Canada; coming Dec. 17
Report: TT Games sold to Warner Bros. for approx. $210 million
Tivo alert: Discovery airing 'Rise of the Videogame' Nov. 21

Rumors & Speculation
Is Mistwalker's next DS game a random dungeon crawler?

Culture & Community
Official plush Weighted Companion Cube coming soon
L337Lauren tops other gals on road to Miss Video Game crown
Quiz time: Can you spot the "real" gamers?
Infinity Ward reaches out to EA Chicago devs
MTV's gaming pronunciation guide targets Totilo

JoystiqToday in Joystiq: November 12, 2007 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Nov 2007 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clankdailyrecapPS3ratchetratchet-and-clankratchetandclanksonyMon, 12 Nov 2007 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[NY Times sings praises for Ratchet & Clank]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/31/ny-times-sings-praises-for-ratchet-and-clank/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/31/ny-times-sings-praises-for-ratchet-and-clank/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/31/ny-times-sings-praises-for-ratchet-and-clank/#commentsFiled under:


What? The mainstream media has a glowing review of a PS3 game? Yes, it's true. Insomniac's Ratchet & Clank Future is garnering the attention of many traditionally non-gaming news sources, such as the prestigious NY Times. Once again, the illustrious Pixar comparison is made for Ratchet's latest outing -- the game is visually compared to the likes of pre-rendered Hollywood blockbusters, like Monsters Inc. and Toy Story.

This is important for Sony. The New York Times notes that this can be exactly what Sony needs to convince consumers about the true power of the PS3. "Ratchet, however, will surely become a showcase game for Sony because, given current technology, it seems unlikely that any game for either the 360 or the Wii will be able to match Ratchet's overall visual quality." Such praise from a mainstream news source will go a long way to alleviate Sony's ailing public image.

"The biggest problem with Ratchet is that at times it is so lushly compelling that you find yourself just staring at the screen, as if it were a movie, rather than actually playing the game. And that, of course, is not a bad problem at all."

[Thanks, Will!]

JoystiqNY Times sings praises for Ratchet & Clank originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Oct 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>insomniacny-timesratchetratchet-and-clankWed, 31 Oct 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Penny Arcade takes on Ratchet and Clank]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/penny-arcade-takes-on-ratchet-and-clank/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/penny-arcade-takes-on-ratchet-and-clank/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/penny-arcade-takes-on-ratchet-and-clank/#commentsFiled under:


Did you catch today's Penny Arcade strip? Well, hope you did -- it's a fun one, just for Ratchet & Clank fans. Check it out.

Of course, as is usual for the Penny Arcade duo, they have a blog entry detailing their experiences with the game. "The new Ratchet & Clank is a marvel, further proof that Insomniac is the surest thing that platform has going for it. You'll travel to lush, hitch-free worlds where the brutal load times found in other Playstation titles are nowhere to be found. It's something everyone with the system will be playing, and it's executed at a level that should generate jealousy in the non-owner."

We'd have to agree. Check out PS3 Fanboy's review of the game next Tuesday (right before it "officially" ships to stores!).

JoystiqPenny Arcade takes on Ratchet and Clank originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Oct 2007 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comicpenny-arcaderatchetratchet-and-clankFri, 26 Oct 2007 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP Fanboy mega-interview: Secret Agent Clank]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/25/psp-fanboy-mega-interview-secret-agent-clank/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/25/psp-fanboy-mega-interview-secret-agent-clank/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/25/psp-fanboy-mega-interview-secret-agent-clank/#commentsFiled under: ,


Little is known about the upcoming PSP exclusive Secret Agent Clank, briefly seen at an invite-only pre-Tokyo Game Show cocktail party. With the incredible mystery surrounding this new title, we asked our readers to come up with questions for the High Impact Games team. We're proud to present this PSP Fanboy mega-interview, which reveals the game's story, connectivity with the previous Ratchet games, and plans for a demo. Read on.

How are you going to improve on Size Matters? Are there any improvements on your previous engine or are you building a new one?
Dave Goodrich, Lead Designer: High Impact Games has taken advantage of the Size Matters engine to give us a strong base to work from for this exciting new adventure. Secret Agent Clank has a different style than Size Matters and has expanded into new game types such as timing and stealth. Along with new gameplay modes, there is an assortment of playable characters, each with their own unique levels.

What kind of multiplayer support will there be? Will it work through Infrastructure?
Dave Goodrich, Lead Designer: Secret Agent Clank is a very story intensive game with lots of unique gameplay elements. We have decided to focus our efforts on the single player game to make a really engrossing experience for the player. There is no multiplayer planned for this installment of the game.

Continue reading PSP Fanboy mega-interview: Secret Agent Clank

JoystiqPSP Fanboy mega-interview: Secret Agent Clank originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Oct 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>high-impact-gamesinterviewjoystiqfeaturesratchetsecret-agent-clankThu, 25 Oct 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/24/metareview-ratchet-and-clank-future-tools-of-destruction/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/24/metareview-ratchet-and-clank-future-tools-of-destruction/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/24/metareview-ratchet-and-clank-future-tools-of-destruction/#commentsFiled under: , ,


May the furries rejoice, the continuing adventures of a Lombax and his robot blows up the PS3 with Rachet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction. Apparently everything old about Ratchet & Clank is still old, but it's gussied up and makes excellent use of the PS3 as something other than a movie player. Ratchet & Clank looks to be a boon for games on the system, even if it does amount to what Game Informer deems perfectly as "comfort food."
  • GameTap (100/100): "It's rare that a game critic feels the way I do about this game, but in all honesty, I find it really difficult to find something that's not to like. The controls feel great. The graphics look great. The score sounds great. The weapon selection alone make me want to play the game over and over again, just to test out all the cool offered. And that's that's what happens when a smart development team has spent a long time imagining a game like this. It's obvious they've accomplished feats here that they've probably been wanting to do for a long time."
  • Game Informer (93/100): "You know how we always say that it's not enough to make a prettier version of a last-generation title - that you really need to offer us something that wasn't possible five years ago? Well, leave it to Insomniac to make me a liar. Because, in all reality, Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction sticks extremely close to the formula that made the series one of the PS2's best. There's not much here I haven't seen before. But I don't care, and neither will you, because this is an adventure packed to the brim with vivid characters, amazing gameplay, and heartfelt humor. In a way, it's the ultimate in video game comfort food - a familiar old favorite for those times when you're hungry for nothing but an expertly crafted good time."
  • Gamespot (75/100): "Try as it might, Tools of Destruction doesn't achieve the same level of greatness as its predecessors. It's too easy, the story falls flat, and the "throw everything in including the kitchen sink" style of gameplay takes too much of the focus off the tight platforming and fun combat. That said, the gorgeous visuals and generally fun gameplay are enough to make Tools of Destruction worthwhile for the series' fans and newcomers alike."

JoystiqMetareview: Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Oct 2007 13:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clankps3ratchetratchetandclankWed, 24 Oct 2007 13:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Firmware 1.94 adds DualShock rumble support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/firmware-1-94-adds-dualshock-rumble-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/firmware-1-94-adds-dualshock-rumble-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/23/firmware-1-94-adds-dualshock-rumble-support/#commentsFiled under:


Ratchet & Clank Future (available in retail stores soon) is the first retail PS3 game to support rumble out of the box. The game includes firmware update 1.94 on the disc and will allow players with DualShock 3 controllers to experience the incredible innovation of rumble.

The firmware is, as of writing, not yet available for download. DualShock 3 controllers will be available in Japan in November and in America next year.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqFirmware 1.94 adds DualShock rumble support originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Oct 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.94dualshock3ratchetratchet-and-clankrumbleTue, 23 Oct 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ratchet & Clank delayed one week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/28/ratchet-and-clank-delayed-one-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/28/ratchet-and-clank-delayed-one-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/28/ratchet-and-clank-delayed-one-week/#commentsFiled under:


It looks like Ratchet & Clank didn't show up three hours early to get through spaceport security and will be delayed a week. The boys were expected on Oct. 23, but according to the PlayStation Blog they'll be arriving Oct. 30. Not only has the game been delayed, but the demo expected Oct. 4 on PSN will now show up on Oct. 11. If you can't wait for the demo, remember that you can always pick it up at GameStop with a pre-order of Ratchet & Clank Future.

R&C Future is definitely a game we're looking forward to. Not only because the series has always been solid, but because we like pretty colors and we're getting a little sick of the brown motif in games. A week extra isn't so bad compared to other PS3 delays we've seen.

[Via Gamespot]

JoystiqRatchet & Clank delayed one week originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Sep 2007 11:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clankps3ratchetratchetandclankFri, 28 Sep 2007 11:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Ratchet & Clank goes gold; game gets one-week delay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/27/ratchet-and-clank-goes-gold-game-gets-one-week-delay/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/27/ratchet-and-clank-goes-gold-game-gets-one-week-delay/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/27/ratchet-and-clank-goes-gold-game-gets-one-week-delay/#commentsFiled under:

Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction has finally gone gold. For those that are unfamiliar with the industry lingo, that means the game is done and is being manufactured for the masses to enjoy.

But, hidden in the good news comes the bad -- Tools of Destruction is getting a delay. Yes, a tiny one, but a delay nonetheless. You can now expect the game a week later: October 30th. The demo will arrive "by October 11th," although the demo was originally planned for a October 4th release. The demo will be based on the E3 demo, the one which features Metropolis.

Stay tuned to PS3 Fanboy as we have tons of Ratchet swag to give away.

JoystiqRatchet & Clank goes gold; game gets one-week delay originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Sep 2007 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>goldratchetThu, 27 Sep 2007 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[TGS07: Ratchet & Clank Future Japanese trailer and Sixaxis control video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/20/tgs07-ratchet-and-clank-future-japanese-trailer-and-sixaxis-contr/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/20/tgs07-ratchet-and-clank-future-japanese-trailer-and-sixaxis-contr/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/20/tgs07-ratchet-and-clank-future-japanese-trailer-and-sixaxis-contr/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Above you'll find the Japanese trailer for Ratchet & Clank Future, and after the break we've got a video showing a little bit how the Sixaxis is implemented in the game. If Ratchet looks a little weird to you (notice the dark eyebrows and eye difference), it's because the Japanese actually have a different Ratchet. Not only that, but they have a different story going on. Localization is funny like that.

If you'd like to know more, PS3 Fanboy has a great interview with Insomniac's Ryan Schneider as he explains the different Ratchets. He says, "In Japan ... they will write their own backstory and they have their own sensibilities. We actively support and encourage that and they're great in identifying what works in that market. Of course, we don't complain because we're one of the few successful Western franchises there period." Although the Japanese Ratchet won't be unlockable in the US version, the Japanese language mode will.

Continue reading TGS07: Ratchet & Clank Future Japanese trailer and Sixaxis control video

JoystiqTGS07: Ratchet & Clank Future Japanese trailer and Sixaxis control video originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Sep 2007 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clankps3ratchetratchetandclankThu, 20 Sep 2007 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[TGS07: Secret Agent Clank hands-on]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/tgs07-secret-agent-clank-hands-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/tgs07-secret-agent-clank-hands-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/tgs07-secret-agent-clank-hands-on/#commentsFiled under: ,

Sony revealed a brand new game at its pre-TGS media event. Unfortunately, it was a game we all knew was coming: Secret Agent Clank, a new PSP continuation of the popular Ratchet & Clank series. First accidentally leaked on the musician's resume, and then accidentally confirmed to PSP Fanboy by a developer, the existence of Secret Agent Clank was ironically not very secret at all.

The brief hands-on time we had with the game highlighted gameplay that strays far from what series fans have become accustomed to. The first part had Clank jumping through laser grids while pressing buttons in a music-based rhythm game that very closely resembles PaRappa the Rapper. The next area showed platforming as Clank, sans Ratchet. Finally, we encountered a boss where we finally got to play as Captain Quark. Like another green-plad video game character, he uses a vacuum gun to suck trash and projectiles and throw it back to the enemy.

The visuals were on par with the previous Ratchet & Clank title from High Impact Games. The game still has a long way to go, and will not be present at Tokyo Game Show this year.

JoystiqTGS07: Secret Agent Clank hands-on originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Sep 2007 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clankPSPratchetsecret-agent-clankTGStgs07Wed, 19 Sep 2007 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[TGS07: Secret Agent Clank hands-on]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/tgs07-secret-agent-clank-hands-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/tgs07-secret-agent-clank-hands-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/tgs07-secret-agent-clank-hands-on/#commentsFiled under:

Sony revealed a brand new game at its pre-TGS media event. Unfortunately, it was a game we all knew was coming: Secret Agent Clank, a new PSP continuation of the popular Ratchet & Clank series. First accidentally leaked on the musician's resume, and then accidentally confirmed to PSP Fanboy by a developer, the existence of Secret Agent Clank was ironically not very secret at all.

The brief hands-on time we had with the game highlighted gameplay that strays far from what series fans have become accustomed to. The first part had Clank jumping through laser grids while pressing buttons in a music-based rhythm game that very closely resembles PaRappa the Rapper. The next area showed platforming as Clank, sans Ratchet. Finally, we encountered a boss where we finally got to play as Captain Quark. Like another green-plad video game character, he uses a vacuum gun to suck trash and projectiles and throw it back to the enemy.

The visuals were on par with the previous Ratchet & Clank title from High Impact Games. The game still has a long way to go, and will not be present at Tokyo Game Show this year.

Continue reading TGS07: Secret Agent Clank hands-on

JoystiqTGS07: Secret Agent Clank hands-on originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Sep 2007 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ratchetsecret-agent-clanktgs07Wed, 19 Sep 2007 10:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Ratchet & Clank Future to feature Japanese voice acting]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/ratchet-and-clank-future-to-feature-japanese-voice-acting/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/ratchet-and-clank-future-to-feature-japanese-voice-acting/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/ratchet-and-clank-future-to-feature-japanese-voice-acting/#commentsFiled under:


Ryan, ahem, Schneider, just got back to us, adding a few new details to our previous interview with him. Firstly, it appears that the Japanese Ratchet model (the one with the big bushy eyebrows) will not be included in the US version of the game. What will make the cut, strangely, is the Japanese language track, allowing you to have all sorts of kawaii adventures with Ratchet and his robot pal.

If you missed it, read the complete interview here.

JoystiqRatchet & Clank Future to feature Japanese voice acting originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Sep 2007 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ratchetryanschneidertools-of-destructionMon, 17 Sep 2007 22:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Fanboy interviews Ratchet and Clank's Ryan Schneider]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/16/ps3-fanboy-interviews-ratchet-and-clanks-ryan-snyder/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/16/ps3-fanboy-interviews-ratchet-and-clanks-ryan-snyder/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/16/ps3-fanboy-interviews-ratchet-and-clanks-ryan-snyder/#commentsFiled under:


We got in touch with Ryan Schneider, our friend at Insomniac, and talked a little bit more about their upcoming Ratchet & Clank game. Ryan was able to tell us a bit about the game's massive size, potential Home integration, and more.

The search for the Lombax Secret, and Ratchet's past, is certainly driving a much stronger story in this iteration. What sparked the change for a more story-oriented game this time around?
I would say the quality of writing has been outstanding. TJ Fixman is our writer. He's a guy with his own agent, and he has movies optioned. We just have a terrific writer. It's not so much that we were taking a different tact to the story compared to the past. But the topic is more epic in general. We're exploring Ratchet's roots. Why is he the last of his kind? What is the Lombax Secret? Who are the Zoni and why is Clank the only one to see them? What kind of dynamic tension does that create? Will Ratchet trust his buddy Clank, or will he think he's got a bolt loose in his head, and he's gone haywire? These are the elements that make a good story. We've turned the lens inward. If you look at the past Ratchet games, it was about Ratchet against an enemy. Now, he's on a quest to discover something about himself. I think that alone makes the story more epic and more mysterious.

Is the writer new to the franchise?
Yes, this is TJ's first Ratchet game. TJ and Brian Hastings make for a great team. Bryan's our chief creative officer, and TJ's one of the funnier people I know. We love butt jokes -- and what's cool to us is that it does appeal to eight year olds and adults. The animators did a great job too. For example, in one scene Quark gives Ratchet and Clank a clue. It's the pirate guys and he says "check out this pirate design. It's perfect for parties and late night misadventures." Then, he leans into the screen and winks. It's not written into the script but it makes it come to life and makes it that much funnier.

Continue reading PS3 Fanboy interviews Ratchet and Clank's Ryan Schneider

JoystiqPS3 Fanboy interviews Ratchet and Clank's Ryan Schneider originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 16 Sep 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>interviewjoystiqfeaturesratchettools-of-destructionSun, 16 Sep 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ratchet and Clank demo is captured on video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/16/ratchet-and-clank-demo-is-captured-on-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/16/ratchet-and-clank-demo-is-captured-on-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/16/ratchet-and-clank-demo-is-captured-on-video/#commentsFiled under:

Stop by a EB Games or Gamespot lately? You can pick up a Blu-ray demo of the upcoming PS3 platformer, Ratchet & Clank: Tools of Destruction. A must-watch for the inquisitive, thanks to the commentary. Sure, it isn't the best quality, thanks to its "hey, I'm a dude capturing video off a screen" feel, but for many -- it's the best you can do. Hopefully, it won't be too long before you're able to download this to your hard drive and give it a whirl.

[Thanks, Justin!]

JoystiqRatchet and Clank demo is captured on video originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 16 Sep 2007 06:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ratchettools-of-destructionSun, 16 Sep 2007 06:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Weapons upgrades in Ratchet & Clank Future]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/weapons-upgrades-in-ratchet-and-clank-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/weapons-upgrades-in-ratchet-and-clank-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/weapons-upgrades-in-ratchet-and-clank-future/#comments
Fans of Ratchet & Clank are no stranger to weapon upgrades. The system featured in the upcoming Tools of Destruction takes the customizing features of Deadlocked, streamlines them and makes them more accessible. Just like previous Ratchet games, your weapons will automatically upgrade over time through experience points. However, those that want greater customization of their weapons can head to a weapons counter and access this upgrade grid (pictured, above).

Upgrades, such as more ammo, bigger effects, increased damage, and more can be added to the weapons. In fact, some upgrades are unique to each particular weapon. In order to use the system, players will follow a branching path on the grid. Choosing one upgrade will unlock the ability to get another. It's very similar to the Final Fantasy XII system.

The final build of Ratchet & Clank is heading to PS3 Fanboy soon. Stay tuned for more very, very soon.

Continue reading Weapons upgrades in Ratchet & Clank Future

JoystiqWeapons upgrades in Ratchet & Clank Future originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Sep 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ratchetratchetweekFri, 14 Sep 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Fanboy looks at Ratchet & Clank's concept art]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/30/ps3-fanboy-looks-at-ratchet-and-clanks-concept-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/30/ps3-fanboy-looks-at-ratchet-and-clanks-concept-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/30/ps3-fanboy-looks-at-ratchet-and-clanks-concept-art/#commentsFiled under:


We don't think you've seen these before. Stolen from the inner depths of the Insomniac offices, we have brand new concept art from the upcoming Ratchet & Clank: Tools of Destruction. In our first gallery, you'll see the creative process at work: from environment designs, to creature creations.

In our second gallery, you'll get a closer look at many of the new characters in R&C. For example, the "sultry" Talwyn, someone that holds the key to the "Lombax secret" perhaps?

Thanks to Insomniac for providing this art to our readers! (Expect to see many of these return for our Wallpaper collection this weekend!)


JoystiqPS3 Fanboy looks at Ratchet & Clank's concept art originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Aug 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>joystiqfeaturesratchetratchetweekThu, 30 Aug 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ratchet and Clank video dump with pretty colors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/19/ratchet-and-clank-video-dump-with-pretty-colors/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/19/ratchet-and-clank-video-dump-with-pretty-colors/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/19/ratchet-and-clank-video-dump-with-pretty-colors/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Taking a break from playing the awesomeness of BioShock, it's time to take a quick look at another game that's got us getting excited: Ratchet and Clank: Tools of Destruction. Slated for October 23 in North America (but remember it's not region locked), the game has come a long way since we saw it at E3. Why are we so excited about this particular installment in the series we've come to know and love over the years? Well, Christopher Nicholls, animation director for Insomniac Games, hits it out of the park in the video above saying, "This generation is like how many million colors of gray can you have? How realistic -- with lots stubble and [how] miserable can you make all the characters? I think that's OK, but thing with Ratchet, it's a total breath of fresh air. It's back to old-school, is it fun?"

We've dumped a ton of Ratchet and Clank videos after the break. Is it worth getting a PS3 for? That's in the eye of the beholder and if you've hit your limit with the brown palette. When one can look at a game and the first thing that happens is a smile creeps in because there's color beyond brown and gray -- from a series that has been consistently solid -- it's at least worth thinking that the PS3 is finally getting some traction.

Continue reading Ratchet and Clank video dump with pretty colors

JoystiqRatchet and Clank video dump with pretty colors originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 Aug 2007 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clankinsomniacPS3ratchetratchetandclankratchetandclanktoolsofdestructionSun, 19 Aug 2007 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Ratchet Week: Two new videos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/18/ratchet-week-two-new-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/18/ratchet-week-two-new-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/18/ratchet-week-two-new-videos/#commentsFiled under:

You read about Ratchet's good looks. Now see it in action! See the Groovitron in action in this new video from the game. Then, see the SIXAXIS-controlled glider in the works.

After the cut, see what you've been waiting for: dancing pirate Ratchet. Yes! In order to get past this special door, Ratchet will have to bust a groove. Arg! Come back tomorrow when we'll have two more videos to share with you.

Continue reading Ratchet Week: Two new videos

JoystiqRatchet Week: Two new videos originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Aug 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ratchetratchetweekSat, 18 Aug 2007 12:00:00 EST