Playstation Confirms Ratchet And Clank Return, New Game Divides

PlayStation gamers are divided over a newly announced Ratchet & Clank game, and we get it.

Since the original PlayStation console arrived in 1994, it has been a platform for some of the most popular franchises in the video game industry, and not just Sony's exclusive titles.

The likes of Resident Evil, Silent Hill and Tomb Raider were most likely introduced to gamers for the first time on PlayStation. However, let’s not forget about the first-party releases that have kept us entertained for generations.

Even on the current generation consoles, veteran favourites like Gran Turismo, God of War, as well as Ratchet & Clank all build tons of excitement for devoted fans of PlayStation whenever a new game is announced, well, usually.

Developed by Marvel’s Spider-Man studio, Insomniac Games, Ratchet & Clank made its debut on PlayStation 2 in 2002, and from that moment on, it’s been one of the most popular Sony first-party franchises.

Over the years, we’ve had tons of sequels and spin-offs, with the latest entry in the series being the fantastic PlayStation 5 exclusive Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart in 2021, which scored an impressive 88 on the aggregate website Metacritic.

Understandably, given how popular the Ratchet & Clank series is, fans would love nothing more than to see a new sequel. While that sequel doesn't appear to be happening anytime soon, we are getting a new game in the series, but it’s probably not the game that most fans would have wanted.

“Are you ready to Rumble?!” tweeted the Twitter account for the new game in question, Ratchet & Clank: Ranger Rumble, developed by Oh BiBi.

“Blast into Ratchet & Clank: Ranger Rumble, a fast-paced multiplayer mobile shooter set in Captain Qwark’s totally safe simulation! Play as heroes from across the galaxy and time and become the next Galactic Ranger!”

Fans aren't thrilled with the new game

So, what’s the problem with this new Ratchet & Clank game, I hear you ask? The problem that many have is that it’s not a new PlayStation 5 release but is instead a free-to-play mobile game.

“The iconic characters from the Ratchet & Clank franchise are back in a stunning, fast-paced arena shooter packed with explosive weapons and larger-than-life action,” reads the synopsis of Ranger Rumble.

“Experience the humour, action, and energy of the iconic universe in a bold new real-time multiplayer format. Play as a Legendary Hero from the past, now with unique abilities. Go solo or team up with other Rangers online in thrilling multiplayer games built for every kind of player.”

It’s fair to say that many fans on the Twitter thread are not all that impressed. Well, there are some exceptions.

“I fear that Jak and Daxter might be next in the mobile game hell,” replied bluedragonjet.

“This genuinely saddens me,” said another user.

“Why does this exist?” asked Wizpog69420.

Plenty of other commenters used GIFs and memes to express their displeasure towards the Ratchet & Clank: Ranger Rumble announcement.

Ratchet & Clank: Ranger Rumble doesn't have a release date just yet, but you can register your interest for Android and iOS if it tickles your fancy.