Ratchet & Clank: Going Commando

Ratchet & Clank: Going Commando

Table of Contents

Introduction

Released just one year after the explosive debut of the series, Ratchet & Clank: Going Commando (often abbreviated as R & C: GC) set a new gold standard for action-platformers. Developed by Insomniac Games, this sequel took everything that worked in the original and amplified it to the next level. Whether you know it as Ratchet & Clank 2 or by its region-specific titles like Ratchet & Clank 2: Locked and Loaded, there is no denying the impact this game had on the sixth generation of consoles. By refining the blend of third-person shooting and precision platforming, the developers created a masterpiece that felt both familiar and revolutionary. This entry solidified the duo as icons of the PlayStation era.

Story & Setting

The narrative picks up shortly after the events of the first game. Ratchet and Clank, now somewhat bored celebrities, are whisked away to the Bogon Galaxy by Abercrombie Fizzwidget, the eccentric CEO of Megacorp. They are recruited as heroes for hire to recover a stolen biological experiment known as the "Protopet." Throughout the journey, the duo uncovers a deeper conspiracy involving a mysterious masked thief and the questionable ethics of Megacorp itself. This galactic adventure spans numerous planets, each with distinct environments ranging from neon-soaked futuristic cities to swampy marshlands. The writing retains the series' signature wit, offering a satirical take on corporate consumerism while providing a compelling arc for its protagonists.

Gameplay

The core loop of Ratchet & Clank: Going Commando is centered on combat and progression. A standout feature is the massive arsenal, which includes 18 entirely new weapons and five returning favorites from the first game. A significant innovation in this sequel is the experience system; as players use weapons, they gain experience and eventually transform into more powerful forms. This RPG-lite mechanic extended to Ratchet himself, as his health—known as Nanotech—now increases through combat rather than just by finding rare items.

Beyond the standard run-and-gun levels, the game introduces "Maxi-games." These side activities offer a change of pace, featuring gladiator-style arena combat, space ship dogfights, and high-speed hoverbike racing. Players can also hunt for Raritanium to upgrade their ships or participate in spherical world exploration. For those with a completed save from the original game, certain legacy weapons can be imported if you have your old memory save, rewarding long-time fans for their loyalty.

Platforms

This game was originally released on the PlayStation 2 across various regions including North America, Europe, and Japan.

Legacy

The legacy of the game is cemented by its critical acclaim and the way it defined the series' identity. It introduced the weapon upgrade system that became a staple of every subsequent entry. In various regions, the game was released under different titles, such as Ratchet & Clank 2: Locked and Loaded or the Spanish version Ratchet & Clank 2: Totalmente a Tope. Critics praised its improved controls—specifically the addition of "strafing"—which made the combat significantly more fluid than its predecessor. It remains a fan favorite and is often cited as one of the strongest sequels in the history of the genre, proving that the formula had immense staying power.

Fun Facts

  • In Japan, the game is famously titled Ratchet & Clank 2 Gagaga! Galactic Commando, reflecting a more energetic marketing approach.
  • The game features the "Insomniac Museum," a secret area containing cut content and behind-the-scenes assets, accessible through a specific teleporter.
  • It was the first game in the series to introduce the "Challenge Mode," allowing players to replay the game with higher difficulty and even more powerful weapon tiers after completion.
  • Development was incredibly fast, with the team at Insomniac Games completing the project in less than a year.

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