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Preview: Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One

In a gaming world where multiplayer is often tacked on and means direct conflict with one another, I have to admit it’s refreshing to see a new co-op game about to enter the mix.

Insomniac Games, known for the development of Ratchet & Clank is soon bringing the latest iteration in the series, Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One to PlayStation3. I had the opportunity to go hands-on with the title’s closed beta and now it’s release date can’t come fast enough!

All 4 One at a glance is a four player co-op action platformer bringing the series four main characters: Ratchet, Clank, Qwark and Dr Nefarious together under unusual, yet comedic circumstances.

The beta build had two levels available for play, both of which were unique and hilariously entertaining. There’s no denying that Insomniac has put significant effort behind this. It’s obvious they want this to be more than a party game.  Environments are beautifully detailed, the banter between characters is so funny at times you can’t help but sit back and laugh and at its core it’s just so much fun to play.

Gameplay naturally takes its cue from previous games of the series. Insomniac has done a terrific job at taking the core control elements and streamlining them for four players. Choosing from the multitude of weapons has been simplified and you can switch weapons quickly with the right analogue stick; Characters play identically so you never feel like you’re at a disadvantage regardless of the character you’re dealt and players can drop in and out of the game at checkpoints.

There were a few technical issues, such as frequent dropouts with some players and instances where I was required to reset my console because it froze to the point where I couldn’t do anything, but that’s what these betas are for. Insomniacs previous track record leaves me believing these will be solved before release.

Perhaps what I like best about All 4 One is first and foremost it’s a game about co-operating together but it also encourages competition between you and your fellow players in the form of bolt collecting, taking out the most enemies and competing for unique items. That’s what a co-op game should be: fun to play with a dose of healthy rivalry.

Ratchet &Clank: All 4 One arrives on October 18 as an exclusive for the PlayStation3 console. Remember that date!

 


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About the author

Trent Watherston

A Sydneysider with a penchant for gaming and trophy collecting. Known to strum the guitar in both plastic and wooden forms.