The Ratchet and Clank series has been a favorite among platformer and action-adventure fans for more than two decades, offering humor, imaginative weapons, and memorable characters. Because the franchise spans multiple PlayStation generations, many players look for the correct order of Ratchet and Clank games to follow the story smoothly. Whether someone is rediscovering the classics or jumping in for the first time, understanding the sequence can make the adventure more enjoyable. With numerous main titles, spin-offs, and reimaginings, the timeline may seem confusing at first, but exploring it step-by-step reveals a fun and cohesive journey.
Main Series Release Order
The easiest way to follow the Ratchet and Clank games is to look at them in their original release order. This allows players to experience the evolution of gameplay, storytelling, and technology across the PlayStation systems. The main entries form the backbone of the series and introduce important characters, worlds, and villains.
Core Titles in Order
The primary games that shape the main storyline typically include the following
- Ratchet & Clank (2002)
- Ratchet & Clank Going Commando (2003)
- Ratchet & Clank Up Your Arsenal (2004)
- Ratchet Deadlocked (2005)
- Ratchet & Clank Future Tools of Destruction (2007)
- Ratchet & Clank Future Quest for Booty (2008)
- Ratchet & Clank Future A Crack in Time (2009)
- Ratchet & Clank All 4 One (2011)
- Ratchet & Clank Full Frontal Assault (2012)
- Ratchet & Clank Into the Nexus (2013)
- Ratchet & Clank (2016) reimagining of the original
- Ratchet & Clank Rift Apart (2021)
These games create the core of the franchise, though story structure differs slightly between the classic era, the Future saga, and more modern releases. Some games lean toward cooperative play or tower-defense elements, but they all share the signature humor and sci-fi charm.
Understanding the Story Timeline
Players often want to tackle the series in chronological story order instead of release order. Although the overall timeline is straightforward, certain titles fit uniquely into separate arcs. The major storylines include the original trilogy, the Future saga, and the newest adventures.
The Original Trilogy
The first three games form a tight narrative foundation. Ratchet and Clank begin as unlikely partners, discovering their roles in saving the galaxy. Each title expands their friendship and introduces recurring elements such as quirky weapon upgrades, colorful planets, and comedic villains.
- Ratchet & Clankestablishes their origins.
- Going Commandobroadens the universe with new characters.
- Up Your Arsenalheightens the stakes with a significant antagonist.
These three are often considered essential for understanding the series’ roots.
The Transition Era and Side Adventures
After the original trilogy, the franchise experimented with new ideas, tones, and gameplay styles. Players encounter more action-heavy mechanics and light variations in tone. These entries add depth but are not always required for strict timeline progression.
Deadlocked and Spin-Offs
Ratchet Deadlocked stands out because it shifts focus toward combat and arena challenges. Though different in tone, it still contributes to character development and adds context to the universe.
- Deadlockeda darker, combat-driven story.
- Size Mattersportable adventure with classic elements.
- Secret Agent ClankClank takes center stage.
These games enrich the experience, especially for fans who want a deeper understanding of the characters’ journeys.
The Future Saga
With the release of Tools of Destruction, the series shifted into the Future storyline, expanding lore around Ratchet’s species and introducing heavier emotional themes. Many fans view this arc as the cinematic heart of the franchise.
The Future Trilogy and Connecting Titles
The Future saga includes three core games, with Quest for Booty serving as an important link between the main titles.
- Tools of Destructionsets up major mysteries about Ratchet’s origins.
- Quest for Bootya short bridge story focusing on Clank’s disappearance.
- A Crack in Timeexplores fate, destiny, and the duo’s bond.
Many players regard A Crack in Time as one of the best entries due to its balance of emotional storytelling and innovative gameplay.
Later Titles and Gameplay Experiments
Following the Future trilogy, the franchise ventured into cooperative and hybrid gameplay while retaining its lighthearted style. These games may not be central to the overarching plot but contribute variety for players.
Cooperative and Hybrid Games
- All 4 Onefour-player cooperative adventure.
- Full Frontal Assaultblends tower defense with classic mechanics.
- Into the Nexusa compact return to story-driven gameplay.
Into the Nexus is especially important because it closes the Future saga and returns to the emotional themes previously introduced.
The 2016 Reimagining
The Ratchet & Clank (2016) release revisits the first game with updated visuals, modernized gameplay, and a storyline influenced by its film adaptation. While not identical to the original, it offers a fresh introduction for newcomers.
How the Reimagining Fits In
This entry is best treated as an alternate retelling rather than a chronological piece of the original timeline. Players often use it as a starting point if they prefer modern visuals and controls before exploring the older classics.
- Retells the origin story.
- Introduces modern weapon mechanics.
- Not required for continuity, but helpful for newcomers.
It bridges the gap between past and present, making the series more accessible.
Rift Apart and the Modern Era
Ratchet & Clank Rift Apart, developed for the PlayStation 5, brings the series into a new era with dimensional travel, advanced visuals, and the introduction of Rivet. It continues after the Future saga and Into the Nexus, though it can be enjoyed without playing every prior title.
Why Rift Apart Stands Out
This entry makes full use of modern hardware while expanding the lore. It celebrates the franchise’s history while opening doors for new players.
- Introduces alternate dimensions.
- Features new characters and weapons.
- Connects thematically to earlier stories.
- Possible launching point for future sequels.
Rift Apart represents both a continuation and a fresh starting point depending on the player’s preference.
Recommended Play Order for New Players
While release order is ideal for long-time fans, newcomers may prefer a streamlined path. A recommended sequence might look like this
- Ratchet & Clank (2016)
- Going Commando
- Up Your Arsenal
- Tools of Destruction
- Quest for Booty
- A Crack in Time
- Into the Nexus
- Rift Apart
This approach captures the most important story arcs while offering smoother gameplay progression.
The order of Ratchet and Clank games provides a rich and entertaining journey through humor, action, and imaginative storytelling. Whether players follow the original release order, the internal story timeline, or a simplified route, the franchise offers something for everyone. From early classics to visually stunning modern entries, the series continues to evolve while staying true to the partnership between Ratchet and Clank. Exploring the full list of titles allows fans to appreciate how the universe has grown and why it remains one of the most beloved PlayStation franchises of all time.