Ratchet & Clank is a 2002 platform video game developed by Insomniac Games and published by Sony Computer Entertainment for the PlayStation 2. The game was re-released for the PlayStation 3 as part of the Ratchet & Clank Collection in 2013, developed by Idol Minds. It was released on the PlayStation Vita in 2014, remastered by Mass Media Inc..
Ratchet & Clank takes place in the "Solana" galaxy inhabited by various humanoid, anthropomorphic and beastly alien species. The story introduces and follows the characters of Ratchet, a young mechanic belonging to the Lombax species, and Clank, a small robot. The two work together to stop the evil plan of Chairman Drek, who destroys planets on his quest to create a planet for his species, the Blarg. On the way, they attempt to recruit the help of the hero Captain Qwark.
The game is presented from a third-person perspective, in which players primarily control Ratchet as he and Clank travel across planets. Ratchet has access to a large array of futuristic and exotic weapons and gadget he can use to combat enemies or complete puzzles with. Several mini-games such as racing exist outside the main story. The game can also control Clank in several sections.
Early concepts for a PlayStation 2 game by Insomniac were considered once the studio wrapped its work on the Spyro the Dragon franchise, with development launching in March 2001. The lead characters went through a number of designs and changes before Insomniac finalizing their appearance. During development, Insomniac shared assets and technology with fellow developer Naughty Dog, who helped with the game's visual properties.
Upon release, Ratchet & Clank received critical acclaim and was a commercial success. Publications and critics praised the game's visuals, art direction, audio and vocal performances, weaponry, humorous story and gameplay, while others criticized the characterization of the lead characters, camera movements and early levels. The game's success led to a franchise, beginning with a direct sequel, Ratchet & Clank: Going Commando.