Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction

It's fitting that the first instalment of the Ratchet & Clank series on the PS3 is called Future, because in many ways it sets the bar for all future PS3 games. Starting with the opening cinematic to the very last moment, the game is a prime example of what developers can and should do with the platform.

From start to finish

Let's start with the thing console gamers hold most dear: the graphics. Tools of Destruction definitely delivers in the visuals department, doling out sweet eye candy like a friendly old lady at Halloween.

It would be easy to take the lush and vivid detail of the game for granted, but witnessing a giant building collapse as you rail-grind passed it is truly a jaw dropping experience. The best part is that the game's frame-rate never dips or stutters, which means the intense action never misses a beat.

Arms race

Of course, the true star of any Ratchet game are the many gadgets and weapons that you get to use and considering this instalment is subtitled 'Tools of Destruction' you can bet Insomniac went all out.

As you progress through the story, you acquire bolts to purchase weapons with and the precious metal called raritanium to upgrade your arsenal with. The upgrade system has been revamped to a grid system: raritanium is used to purchase slots on the grid that unlocks upgrades in strength, ammo capacity, range, and other attributes. This adds an additional depth and customisation to the playing experience.

The weapons are also as inventive and vicious as ever. One of the silliest gadgets in the game is called the Groovitron -- it shoots a giant disco ball into the air causing all the enemies to start dancing. Each enemy has their own style and we couldn't help but laugh each time we used it. It's just one of the cool weapons found in the game -- the Tornado Launcher is another personal favourite -- and the humour inherent in them definitely is a strong point of the game.

Fly like a...Lombax?

Other than the weapons, players will use the Sixaxis to control Ratchet at certain points during the game. It's implemented better than most other PS3 games but it's still a bit awkward to use. The controls are also a little wonky when accessing the weapons via the quick select. There were times in the flurry of battle where we wanted to select a weapon and we had to try several times to get the intended one to load.

But don't let these minor complaints fool you: Tools of Destruction is an amazing PS 3 game that fully leverages the power of the console. It sets the bar high for not only the series but for all PS3 games to come. It is, without a doubt, reason enough to buy the system.