Ratchet & Clank 2: Locked & Loaded (PS2) Compare Prices

Game Review & Description: The first Ratchet & Clank game was the best action platformer the PS2 had had, and now the dynamic duo are back in Ratchet & Clank 2: Locked and Loaded (hastily resubtitled for the UK after the developers realised that the original Going Commando might imply an entirely different kind of game experience). After becoming rather bored with their lot in the aftermath of their victory in the last game, the now not-so reluctant heroes are hired as bounty hunters to track down the stolen Protopet, which looks like the world's cutest pet but is actually something more sinister. Well, not really sinister, because it's still cute as a button, but definitely dangerous. Although the graphics and controls have had an overhaul for this sequel, the developers have wisely realised that the thing everyone enjoyed most from the first game is the huge number of weapons you get to use. There are 20 new ones to play with now, but interestingly nearly all of them can be upgraded and customised for different features and more power. Not only that but the new role-playing element even extends to Ratchet himself--he can improve his own abilities as he goes. As well as all that the game has got even more variety than before, with tons of mini-games including hoverbike races and spaceship dogfights. There are also a lot more levels in which you get to control Clank in his gigantic killer-robot mode. It might not be all that original but it's fun and good looking and has a surprisingly witty script. All in all, it's top stuff. --David Jenkins