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Story
Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters takes the beloved duo on an all-new adventure that begins with a seemingly innocent vacation. Set after the events of Ratchet: Deadlocked, the game starts with Ratchet and Clank enjoying some downtime on a tropical beach. Their relaxation is short-lived when they encounter a young girl named Luna who is obsessed with capturing images of superheroes. This chance meeting quickly spirals into a thrilling journey as Luna is kidnapped by mysterious robots known as Technomites.
The plot thickens as Ratchet and Clank pursue Luna’s captors, uncovering the Technomites’ grand scheme to take over the galaxy. The Technomites, a race believed to be mythical, are led by their leader, Otto Destruct, who harbors a grudge against organic life forms. As the duo delves deeper into the mystery, they face various challenges and uncover surprising truths about Ratchet’s own origins. The narrative weaves humor with high-stakes drama, staying true to the franchise’s signature storytelling style.
Gameplay
Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters brings the series’ iconic gameplay to the PlayStation Portable (PSP) platform, demonstrating that the core elements of the franchise can successfully transition to a handheld experience. Players navigate through diverse environments ranging from tropical beaches to high-tech laboratories, each filled with puzzles, enemies, and platforming challenges.
Combat and Weapons
The game retains the series’ hallmark of creative weaponry and gadgets. Players have access to a variety of weapons, including returning favorites like the Lacerator and the Bee Mine Glove, as well as new additions like the Concussion Gun. Each weapon can be upgraded with use, adding strategic depth to combat as players decide which weapons to develop based on their playstyle.
Platforming and Puzzles
Platforming elements are a significant part of the gameplay, with levels designed to test players’ timing and precision. Puzzles are cleverly integrated into the environment, requiring players to use their wits and Ratchet’s tools to progress. The game also includes sections where players control Clank, offering a change of pace with different abilities and challenges.
Multiplayer Mode
Size Matters features a multiplayer mode, allowing players to engage in battles with up to four players. This mode includes different maps and modes, bringing a competitive edge to the game. It was a notable addition for a PSP title, providing players with opportunities to enjoy the game beyond the single-player campaign.
Graphics and Sound
For a PSP game, Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters boasts impressive graphics. The developers managed to capture the vibrant, cartoon-like aesthetic that the series is known for, despite the limitations of the handheld platform. Character models are well-designed, and environments are richly detailed, making use of the PSP’s hardware capabilities to deliver a visually appealing experience.
The sound design complements the graphics well, featuring a lively soundtrack that matches the game’s adventurous tone. Voice acting remains strong, with returning actors reprising their roles as Ratchet, Clank, and the game’s various characters. The witty dialogue and humorous banter between characters enhance the narrative, maintaining the charm that fans of the series have come to expect.
Legacy and Reception
Upon release, Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters was met with generally positive reviews. Critics praised its ability to translate the console experience to a portable format without sacrificing the series’ core elements. The game was lauded for its engaging gameplay, humorous story, and creative weaponry, though some noted that the controls could be cumbersome due to the PSP’s limited button layout.
Size Matters stands out as a testament to the franchise’s adaptability, proving that Ratchet and Clank’s adventures could thrive on handheld devices. It also marked a significant step for the series, as it was developed by High Impact Games rather than Insomniac Games, showcasing the potential for successful collaborations with external developers.
The game’s success led to a PlayStation 2 port, further extending its reach and allowing more players to experience Ratchet and Clank’s adventure. This move also demonstrated the game’s strong appeal, warranting a transition back to a home console with enhancements to graphics and controls.
Conclusion
Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters holds a unique place in the series’ history as the first handheld installment of the acclaimed franchise. Its successful adaptation of the console experience to the PSP platform set a precedent for future portable entries. With its engaging story, inventive gameplay mechanics, and charming presentation, Size Matters continues to be remembered fondly by fans and serves as a shining example of how well-established franchises can innovate and thrive across different gaming platforms.
