Ratchet and Clank - A Crack in Time - Essentials (PS3)

Status:

• No manual included
• Play Tested

Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time Essentials (PS3) Review

Released: 2009
Developer: Insomniac Games
Platform: PlayStation 3

Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time is the final installment in the Future trilogy and one of the best games in the series. Combining fast-paced action, clever puzzles, platforming, and a heartfelt story, it delivers an unforgettable experience for both long-time fans and newcomers.

The Essentials edition is simply a budget re-release, meaning the game itself is unchanged but offered at a lower price.

What Works

Fantastic Story & Characters

• The story follows Ratchet's quest to find Clank, who has been captured by Dr. Nefarious.
• The game dives into Ratchets Lombax origins while expanding on Clanks role in the universe.
• Great humor and well-written dialogue keep the adventure entertaining.

Refined Gameplay & Weapons

• Smooth combat and platforming with responsive controls.
• A huge arsenal of wacky weapons, like the Groovitron (which makes enemies dance) and the Spiral of Death.
• Weapon upgrades through XP make the gameplay feel rewarding.

New Time-Based Puzzles with Clank

• Clank gets time-based puzzles using multiple copies of himself to solve challenges.
• These sections are well-designed and refreshing, adding a new layer to gameplay.

Exploration & Space Travel

• Ratchet can explore space freely, land on small moons, and complete side challenges.
• More open-ended than previous games, making the galaxy feel alive.

Stunning Visuals & Art Style

• One of the best-looking PS3 games, with colorful environments, detailed character models, and fluid animations.

Great Replay Value

• Challenge Mode (New Game+) lets you replay with stronger weapons and more difficult enemies.
• Tons of collectibles and side content, including Gold Bolts and RYNO schematics.

What Doesnt Work

Space Combat is Underwhelming

• While exploring space is fun, ship battles are basic and lack depth.

Some Puzzles Can Feel Repetitive

• Clanks time puzzles are fun, but some later ones feel repetitive.

Not a Huge Leap from Previous Games

• It refines the Ratchet & Clank formula rather than revolutionizing it.
• Some weapons and mechanics feel familiar rather than completely new.

Final Verdict

🟢 Final Score: 9/10
Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time is one of the best platformers on PS3, offering an exciting mix of action, humor, puzzle-solving, and exploration. While it doesnt drastically change the series formula, it perfects it, making it a must-play for fans. The Essentials version is a great deal, offering the same amazing experience at a lower price.

Pros:
Engaging story with great humor and characters
Fun, creative weapons with deep upgrades
Beautiful visuals and polished gameplay
Great balance of platforming, puzzles, and combat
Strong replay value with Challenge Mode

Cons:
Space combat is basic
Some time puzzles feel repetitive
Doesnt innovate much beyond past games

Recommendation: If you love action-platformers, A Crack in Time is a must-play. Even if youre new to the series, its one of the best Ratchet & Clank games and a fantastic adventure.