Which Ratchet and Clank is Canon?
The Ratchet & Clank series has been a beloved franchise for over two decades, with a rich history of games, movies, and comics. However, with so many entries in the series, it can be confusing to determine which one is considered canon. In this article, we’ll break down the canon status of each Ratchet & Clank game, movie, and comic to help you understand what’s considered official and what’s not.
The Movie and the 2016 Game: A Separate Timeline
The 2016 Ratchet & Clank movie and the 2016 game of the same name are not considered part of the main canon. Instead, they exist in their own separate timeline, which is considered a reboot of the original game. The movie and game take creative liberties with the characters and story, offering a fresh take on the Ratchet & Clank universe.
The Original Game and its Sequels: Canon
The original Ratchet & Clank game (2002) and its sequels (Up Your Arsenal, Deadlocked, and Tools of Destruction) are considered part of the main canon. These games follow the adventures of Ratchet and Clank as they battle against the evil Chairman Drek and his attempts to destroy the galaxy.
Into the Nexus: A Canon Entry
Ratchet & Clank: Into the Nexus (2013) is considered a canon entry in the series. It takes place after the events of Tools of Destruction and features a new villain, Captain Zephyr.
Rift Apart: A Sequel to Into the Nexus
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (2021) is the ninth main installment in the series and a sequel to Into the Nexus. It introduces new characters, new planets, and new gameplay mechanics, while continuing the story of Ratchet and Clank.
Secret Agent Clank: Canon, but In-Universe Fiction
Secret Agent Clank (2009) is a spin-off game that is considered canon, but it’s an in-universe fiction. The game is set in a parallel universe where Ratchet is a secret agent, and the story is not considered part of the main canon.
Other Games and Comics: Non-Canon
Other Ratchet & Clank games, such as Quest for Booty, A Crack in Time, and Full Frontal Assault, are not considered part of the main canon. Similarly, the comics and novels are also non-canonical.
Summary Table
Here’s a summary table to help you keep track of the canon status of each Ratchet & Clank game, movie, and comic:
| Title | Canon Status |
|---|---|
| Ratchet & Clank (2002) | Canon |
| Up Your Arsenal | Canon |
| Deadlocked | Canon |
| Tools of Destruction | Canon |
| Into the Nexus | Canon |
| Rift Apart | Canon |
| Secret Agent Clank | Canon (in-universe fiction) |
| Quest for Booty | Non-canon |
| A Crack in Time | Non-canon |
| Full Frontal Assault | Non-canon |
| Ratchet & Clank (2016) | Non-canon |
| Ratchet & Clank (2016) Movie | Non-canon |
| Comics and Novels | Non-canon |
In conclusion, the Ratchet & Clank series has a complex history, with multiple games, movies, and comics that may or may not be considered canon. By understanding which ones are part of the main canon and which ones are not, you can better appreciate the rich story and characters of the series.