Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart is doing many new things, ranging from its new protagonist to more advanced traversal mechanics. As such, many Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart adopters may be wondering if the series will enter into open-world territory as well.
With Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart exclusive to PS5, the technology is certainly there for an open-world adventure. Further, recent projects from Insomniac Games like Sunset Overdrive and the Marvel’s Spider-Man series have taken an open-world approach, making it seem even more likely. However, when Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart does arrive, gamers should be expecting something more akin to the usual adventures for the pairing.
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Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart is not an open-world game, something that makes sense given its remarkably small file size. Instead of massive planets that can be traversed, Ratchet, Rivet, and Clank will be exploring some more linear levels. This will allow players to see more planets, with players getting variety in their scenery due to the number of locations in the game. With rifts to reach new locales instantly, the game should constantly be changing up its backdrops.
Longtime fans should not be shocked by the game's linear nature, as most Ratchet and Clank games have featured focused stories. While there are side activities to complete on planets and the occasional mini-game, they are on the smaller side. Outside of the spinoffs like Ratchet and Clank: All 4 One and Ratchet and Clank: Full Frontal Assault, this linear storytelling style is a series staple. As such, a change to the open world would be surprising — though fans that like that style of game do have a reason to be excited.
Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart’s planets may not be open-world, but some of them will be on the larger side. Players will be able to explore these areas to their fullest, completing side activities like combat trials, Golden Bolts, and aerial missions. Essentially, these levels work like the open Seattle portion from The Last of Us 2 or the sailing sections from God of War. While gamers can just rush through to the next main story quest, they can take their time exploring certain planets for a few more hours of content.
These open areas should allow the game to serve as the best of both worlds. While Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart’s story can still shine thanks to a linear focus, larger areas can provide some brief moments of open-world-like gameplay for fans to enjoy. With each planet taking full advantage of the PS5’s visual power, fans should have plenty of fun seeing what they have to offer. While Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart may not be an open world, it seeks to give fans some opportunities for deeper exploration.
Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart launches June 11 on PS5.