By Mray901

Ratchet and Clank: All 4 is a casual game, but not in the bad way. It's casual in the sense of anyone can play it, not in the sense of an iPhone game. At least, if you believe Joystiq.


In their latest All 4 One preview, Joystiq says R&C:A4O is a platformer that's easy to get the hang of, and easy to drop into with the new co-op systems. They report that the set-pieces are big and nice, and accompanied by fun platforming, but you'll want to experience these set-pieces while playing co-op with someone.

Normal cooperativ stuff is here; you pick your characters and try to work together to get to the next areas. The twist here, is the competitive aspect. While you're forced by the game to work with your buddies to get past obstacles, there are item drops and power-ups you can fight for. If you've played LittleBigPlanet or New Super Mario Bros. Wii with other people, you'll know exactly how this will turn out. Bad.

Mischief can be made with the cooperative items, like the vacuum... thingy and a leash mechanic. Of course, that's if you feel like being a jerk. If you want to play fair, then you can just expect someone <em>else </em>to pull you into a lava pit with the leash.

Rounding out Joystiq's demo was a boss battle with some kind of sea monster.


Before starting the fight, they has to do a jet skiing set-piece to try and get away from the beast. Once they got to a certain part of the level, they had to use the vacuum device to suck up tiles and walk up the side of a building. I'm not really sure how that works, but I'll suspend belief.

Wrapping up, JC Fletcher of Joystiq says that All 4 One is looking good, and that co-op is a great addition to the series. I for one cannot wait to join TOY_ROBOT, JakandDaxterDude and whoever else may be getting this game for some fun platforming tomfoolary.

Via Joystiq: http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/ratchet-and-clank-all-4-one-preview