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September 11, 2026Sources cited
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Entertainment • Video Games

Ratchet & Clank

Ratchet & Clank is a video game series created and developed by Insomniac Games and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 11, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Ratchet & Clank is a video game series created and developed by Insomniac Games and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. The series follows Ratchet, a Lombax mechanic, and Clank, a sentient robot, across a science-fiction universe. It began on PlayStation 2 in 2002 and is known for its platforming, third-person shooter gameplay, and imaginative weapons.

Premise

The series is set in a science-fiction universe and centres on Ratchet and Clank as they face threats to their galaxy. Its stories mix exploration, combat, humour, and high-tech weaponry.

Gameplay

Most entries combine platforming, action-adventure elements, and third-person shooting. The series is especially recognised for its unusual and expansive arsenal of weapons and gadgets.

Development and release history

Insomniac Games created the franchise, with Sony publishing the original releases on PlayStation systems. The series debuted in 2002 on PlayStation 2 and later expanded to other PlayStation platforms and handheld systems. High Impact Games developed two PSP installments, while other studios handled some remasters and ports.

The franchise also includes spin-offs, remasters, and an animated film released in 2016. The characters have appeared in other media and crossover material as part of the wider franchise.

Key facts

  • The series was created and developed by Insomniac Games and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment.
  • It follows Ratchet, a Lombax mechanic, and Clank, a sentient robot, through a science-fiction universe.
  • The franchise is known for exotic, over-the-top weapons and gadgets.
  • The first game was released in North America on November 6, 2002.
  • High Impact Games developed two PSP installments, while other studios handled some remasters and ports.
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Canadian context

The franchise has been widely released on PlayStation consoles sold in Canada and is part of the broader North American video game market.

Frequently asked questions

What is Ratchet & Clank?
It is a video game series created by Insomniac Games and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment.
Who are the main characters?
The title characters are Ratchet, a Lombax mechanic, and Clank, a sentient robot.
What kind of games are in the series?
The series combines action-adventure, platforming, and third-person shooter gameplay.
When did the series begin?
The first game was released in North America on November 6, 2002.
What is the setting of the series?
The games are set in a science-fiction universe where Ratchet and Clank travel across galaxies.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ratchet_&_Clank
    Supports: Series creator, publisher, genre, setting, characters, original release date, PSP development notes
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ratchet_and_Clank_(characters)
    Supports: Main characters and character identities
  3. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ratchet_&_Clank_(2002_video_game)
    Supports: First game release date and platform
  4. YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ne-0zouGUmo
    Supports: Series platform coverage and PSP exceptions