Hey there! If you’re like me, you’ve probably been charmed by the wild, colorful universe of Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart. It’s a game that feels like jumping into a Pixar movie, complete with dazzling visuals, quirky characters, and a story that tugs at your heartstrings. But as someone who’s spent hours exploring its vibrant planets and blasting enemies with over-the-top weapons, I know one question keeps popping up: Is Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart a 2-player game? Let’s sit down, grab a virtual cup of coffee, and dive into this topic.
I’ve played the game, read the forums, and even chatted with fellow gamers to get the full scoop. Here’s everything you need to know about whether this interdimensional adventure supports multiplayer, along with plenty of details to satisfy your curiosity.
What Is Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart?
Before we get to the multiplayer question, let’s talk about what makes Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart so special. Released in 2021 for the PlayStation 5 and later ported to PC in 2023, this game is the ninth main installment in the beloved Ratchet & Clank series by Insomniac Games. It’s a third-person shooter and platformer that follows Ratchet, a furry Lombax mechanic, and his robotic sidekick Clank as they hop through dimensions to stop an evil emperor from destroying the multiverse. The game also introduces Rivet, a new Lombax from another dimension, and her robot partner Kit. Together, they create a dynamic duo (or quartet!) that’s both familiar and fresh.
The game is a visual feast, thanks to the PS5’s powerful SSD, which allows seamless dimension-hopping without loading screens. You’re zipping from one planet to another, wielding weapons like the Burst Pistol and the Topiary Sprinkler (yes, it turns enemies into bushes!). The story is heartfelt, exploring themes of friendship, identity, and even mental health, all wrapped in a family-friendly package. It’s no wonder fans are eager to know if they can share this adventure with a friend.
Does Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart Have 2-Player or Multiplayer Modes?
Alright, let’s cut to the chase: Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is a single-player game. I know, I know—when you hear about Ratchet and Clank, and now Rivet and Kit, it’s easy to imagine a buddy joining you to control one of these awesome characters. I thought the same thing when I first saw Rivet’s reveal trailer. Two Lombaxes? Sounds like a perfect setup for co-op, right? But here’s the deal: Insomniac Games designed this game as a solo experience from the ground up. There’s no co-op, competitive multiplayer, or any mode that lets two players team up.
I double-checked this with Insomniac’s official statements and community discussions on platforms like Reddit and Steam. The developers confirmed on their support page that there are no plans for multiplayer in Rift Apart. This was a bit of a letdown for me, especially since the series has dabbled in multiplayer before. But don’t worry—I’ll explain why this choice makes sense and how the single-player experience still shines.
Why Doesn’t Rift Apart Have a 2-Player Mode?
When I first learned there was no multiplayer, I was curious about why Insomniac made this call. After playing the game and digging into its design, it started to click. Rift Apart is built around a tightly crafted narrative and seamless gameplay that relies heavily on the PS5’s technology. The dimension-hopping mechanic, powered by the console’s SSD, lets you jump between worlds in an instant. Adding a second player could complicate this, potentially introducing lag or disrupting the story’s pacing.
The game alternates between Ratchet and Rivet, with each character exploring different planets or dimensions. Their stories are interwoven, and you switch between them automatically as the plot unfolds. If a second player controlled Rivet while you played Ratchet, it might mess with the narrative flow or require a complete overhaul of the game’s structure. Plus, Ratchet and Rivet share the same weapons and upgrades, so splitting them for co-op could make progression tricky.
I also think Insomniac wanted to focus on polish over multiplayer. Rift Apart is a showcase for the PS5, with stunning visuals, haptic feedback on the DualSense controller, and a soundtrack that pops. Adding multiplayer might’ve stretched their resources, especially since the game was already pushing the console’s limits. While I’d love to team up with a friend, I get why they prioritized a rock-solid single-player experience.
A Look Back: Multiplayer in the Ratchet & Clank Series
If you’re a longtime fan like me, you might be thinking, “Wait, didn’t some Ratchet & Clank games have multiplayer?” You’re absolutely right! The series has experimented with multiplayer in the past, which is why the lack of it in Rift Apart feels like a missed opportunity for some. Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane to see how multiplayer worked in earlier titles.
| Game Title | Release Year | Multiplayer Type | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal | 2004 | Competitive Multiplayer | Featured team-based modes like deathmatch and capture the flag. Up to 8 players could battle online or via split-screen. It was a blast but not the main focus. |
| Ratchet: Deadlocked | 2005 | Co-op and Competitive | Offered a co-op campaign for two players, plus competitive modes. The co-op let friends play through the story together, which was a fan favorite. |
| Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One | 2011 | Co-op (Up to 4 Players) | A full-on co-op experience with drop-in, drop-out gameplay. Up to four players could control Ratchet, Clank, Qwark, or Nefarious. It was fun but felt different from the main series. |
These games showed that multiplayer can work in the Ratchet & Clank universe. Up Your Arsenal had a surprisingly fun competitive mode, with chaotic battles using the series’ wacky weapons. Deadlocked let you and a friend tackle the story together, which was perfect for couch co-op. All 4 One leaned hard into co-op, but some fans felt it strayed too far from the series’ platforming roots. After All 4 One, Insomniac shifted back to single-player adventures, and Rift Apart continues that trend.
When I played Up Your Arsenal back in the day, I loved the multiplayer chaos, but it was clear the heart of the series was its story and exploration. Rift Apart doubles down on that, focusing on a cinematic experience that’s hard to replicate in multiplayer.
Why the Single-Player Experience in Rift Apart Shines
Even without a 2-player mode, Rift Apart is a joy to play. I’ve sunk over 15 hours into it, and every moment feels polished and engaging. Here’s why the single-player focus works so well:
- Immersive Story: The narrative is a standout, blending humor, heart, and multiverse madness. Ratchet’s quest to find his Lombax family, Rivet’s journey as a resistance fighter, and the dynamic between Clank and Kit are deeply personal. Playing solo lets you soak in every cutscene and character moment without splitting focus.
- Seamless Dimension-Hopping: The game’s signature feature is its ability to whisk you between planets and dimensions in seconds. Whether you’re grinding rails in Nefarious City or dashing through Sargasso’s jungles, the transitions are buttery smooth. This technical marvel might not have been as crisp with multiplayer.
- Varied Gameplay: You’re constantly switching between platforming, shooting, and puzzle-solving. The game throws in creative set pieces, like riding a Speetle through a desert or battling in the Battleplex Arena. There’s enough variety to keep you hooked for the 10-15 hour campaign, or up to 20 hours if you chase collectibles like gold bolts and CraiggerBears.
- Weapon Creativity: The arsenal is a highlight, with weapons like the Negatron Collider and the Cold Snap that freeze enemies into ice cubes. Upgrading them with Raritanium feels rewarding, and the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback makes every shot pop. I found myself giggling every time I turned an enemy into a plant with the Topiary Sprinkler.
- Stunning Visuals: From Ratchet’s fuzzy fur to the neon-lit streets of Nefarious City, the game is a visual masterpiece. The ray-traced reflections and vibrant colors make every planet a joy to explore. I often stopped to use photo mode just to capture the beauty.
When I finished the game, I didn’t miss multiplayer as much as I thought I would. The single-player experience is so well-crafted that it feels complete on its own. Still, I can’t help but dream about what a co-op mode could’ve been like.
Could Multiplayer Be Added in the Future?
As much as I’d love to see a 2-player mode, it’s unlikely for Rift Apart. The game’s been out since 2021, and the PC port in 2023 didn’t add multiplayer. Insomniac has stayed quiet about any plans to update the game with co-op or competitive modes. Some fans on Reddit have speculated about performance issues on PC, like stuttering during rift transitions, which could make multiplayer tricky to implement smoothly.
That said, the Ratchet & Clank series has a history of surprising us. If Insomniac sees enough demand, they might consider multiplayer for a future title. For now, though, Rift Apart is a solo adventure, and it’s designed to be enjoyed that way. If you’re itching for multiplayer, you could revisit older titles like Deadlocked or All 4 One through emulation or older consoles.
Tips for Enjoying Rift Apart as a Single-Player Game
If you’re diving into Rift Apart solo, here are some tips to make the most of it, based on my own playthrough:
- Explore Every Corner: The game’s planets are packed with secrets, like gold bolts, spybots, and lorbs. These unlock extras like cheats, skins, and story snippets. I spent hours hunting for CraiggerBears, and it was worth it for the warm fuzzies.
- Experiment with Weapons: Don’t stick to one gun. Try out every weapon in your arsenal to find fun combos. The Ricochet pairs great with the Cold Snap for crowd control. Upgrading weapons in the skill tree adds new abilities, so keep collecting Raritanium.
- Use the DualSense Controller: If you’re on PS5, the controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers make combat feel alive. On PC, a DualSense can replicate this if you use a wired connection. It’s a game-changer for immersion.
- Try Challenge Mode: After beating the story, Challenge Mode (New Game+) lets you carry over your weapons and armor with increased difficulty. It’s a great way to extend your playtime and test your skills.
- Take Your Time with the Story: The narrative is a highlight, so don’t rush through cutscenes. Rivet’s arc, in particular, is a standout, and the voice acting is top-notch. I found myself tearing up during a few moments (no spoilers!).
Comparing Rift Apart to Other Co-op Platformers
If you’re disappointed about the lack of 2-player support, you might be wondering how Rift Apart stacks up against other platformers with co-op. I’ve played a few, and here’s how they compare:
| Game | Platform | Co-op Details | Why It’s Similar or Different |
|---|---|---|---|
| It Takes Two | PS5, PC, Xbox | 2-player co-op (mandatory) | A story-driven platformer with puzzle-solving and teamwork. Unlike Rift Apart, co-op is the core focus, requiring two players to progress. |
| Sackboy: A Big Adventure | PS5, PS4, PC | Up to 4-player co-op | A family-friendly platformer with a similar vibe to Rift Apart. The co-op is optional and drop-in, making it more flexible but less narrative-driven. |
| Super Mario 3D World | Switch, Wii U | Up to 4-player co-op | Fast-paced platforming with multiple characters. It’s less story-focused than Rift Apart but great for local co-op fun. |
These games scratch the co-op itch, but Rift Apart stands out for its cinematic storytelling and technical prowess. If you want a similar single-player experience, try Spider-Man: Miles Morales by Insomniac—it’s another narrative gem.
My Personal Experience with Rift Apart
Let me share a quick story. When I first booted up Rift Apart, I was blown away by the opening parade on Corson V. The colors, the music, the chaos—it felt like I was in a living cartoon. I kept hoping for a co-op mode so I could share the fun with my brother, who’s a huge Ratchet & Clank fan. But as I played, I got lost in the story of Ratchet and Rivet. Switching between them felt natural, and the game’s pacing kept me hooked. By the time I reached the final boss (no spoilers!), I was so invested that I forgot about wanting multiplayer.
One of my favorite moments was exploring Sargasso, riding a Speetle through the jungle while collecting zurpstones for a side quest. The freedom of movement—dashing, grinding rails, and swinging with the Rift Tether—made me feel like a kid again. Sure, a friend could’ve made it more fun, but the solo journey was plenty satisfying.
Conclusion
After diving deep into Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, I can say it’s a fantastic game, even without a 2-player mode. Its single-player focus lets Insomniac deliver a polished, emotional, and visually stunning adventure that’s perfect for both newcomers and longtime fans. The lack of multiplayer might sting if you were hoping to team up with a friend, but the game’s strengths—its story, gameplay, and technical wizardry—make it a must-play. Whether you’re blasting enemies with a Shatterbomb or exploring the multiverse with Rivet and Kit, there’s so much to love.
If you’re craving co-op, you might want to check out older Ratchet & Clank titles or other platformers like It Takes Two. But for now, grab your DualSense controller, dive into Rift Apart, and enjoy the ride. It’s a solo adventure that feels like a full-on blockbuster, and I promise you won’t be disappointed.
FAQs
Can I play Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart with a friend?
No, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is a single-player game. It doesn’t have co-op or multiplayer modes. You’ll control both Ratchet and Rivet solo as the story switches between them.
Are there any Ratchet & Clank games with multiplayer?
Yes, some older titles have multiplayer. Up Your Arsenal (2004) has competitive multiplayer, Deadlocked (2005) offers co-op and competitive modes, and All 4 One (2011) supports up to four-player co-op.
Why didn’t Insomniac add co-op to Rift Apart?
Insomniac focused on a polished single-player experience, leveraging the PS5’s SSD for seamless dimension-hopping. Adding co-op could’ve disrupted the narrative and technical design.
Is Rift Apart good for solo players?
Absolutely! The game’s story, visuals, and gameplay are top-notch. It’s a 10-15 hour adventure (up to 20 with collectibles) that feels complete and engaging on its own.
Will Rift Apart get a multiplayer update?
It’s unlikely. Since its release in 2021 and PC port in 2023, Insomniac hasn’t announced plans for multiplayer. Future titles might include it if there’s enough demand.