Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart is only months away from its official release, meaning that fans will soon have answers about the female Lombax from the reveal trailer. Players will be able to enjoy what looks like the most visually impressive Ratchet and Clank game as well, with the use of the PS5’s standout features being a major bonus. However, there is still a few months of waiting to get through before players are gunning down enemies as the dynamic duo, making for the perfect amount of time to play another game in the series.

While players wait on Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart to release, going back to the 2016 remake of the original Ratchet and Clank game would be a great way to kill some time. Becoming familiar with the gameplay and characters again is a solid reason to replay the game, while newcomers can use it as a jumping off point so that they are ready for Rift Apart. With an upcoming PlayStation program giving players access to the game for free, too, longtime fans and those with a casual interest should both give Ratchet and Clank’s PS4 remake some attention.

RELATED: Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart Details Digital Deluxe Edition Contents

The Benefit Of Free Access

ratchet in-game 2016 remake

One of the key reasons to give Ratchet and Clank 2016 a look is the fact that all PlayStation owners will have access to the game for free starting on March 1st. For the entirety of the month, the 2016 Ratchet and Clank game will be available for download free of charge, with players simply needing to go to the PlayStation Store to claim their copy. Part of the returning Play at Home program, a service designed to keep players entertained while stuck in quarantine, this special offer is one that should not be passed up on.

Once the free copy is downloaded, players can enjoy the game to their heart’s content. A well-reviewed title with impressive visuals and strong gameplay, the high sales of Ratchet and Clank 2016 imply that most of those interested in the game have already gotten their hands on the title. For those who have still not played the game, though, this free copy gives them the perfect reason to. Any newcomers can catch up on the basics of Ratchet and Clank’s story, learning how the pair met and became the intergalactic heroes that will be seen in Rift Apart later this year. For trophy hunters, the game is a quick and simple platinum as well.

Seeing The Improvements Of Rift Apart More Clearly

ratchet and clank ray-traced lighting

While learning of Ratchet and Clank’s origins is a solid incentive to play the game for newcomers, those that already know the pair well have a different reason to go back to the game: preparation for Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart. Getting the hang of the style of gameplay the series is known for will surely be helpful to even the most seasoned of Ratchet and Clank players, ensuring a smooth transition to the sequel and its fresh weapons. Fans will be able to jump right into the game with a clear idea of the controls, making the most of the titular characters’ tools from the moment the gameplay begins.

Playing the 2016 game first will also allow players to see all the improvements made in Rift Apart, many of which are only possible because of the PlayStation 5. Ray-tracing technology is used, DualSense functionality brings adaptive triggers and haptic feedback for weapons, and a performance mode will allow the sequel to run at 60 FPS. The power of the new console will be on full display in Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart, with more action, particle effects, enemies, and destruction taking place on-screen.

Finally, playing Ratchet and Clank 2016 first will allow players to see how far Insomniac has come as a developer. While the PS4 remake is a strong game that is worth playing, it is an upgrade of an older title that is over 18 years old. With Insomniac having more experience with the franchise after the release of numerous sequels, players will be able to see more complex levels and mechanics in action during Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart. While the sequel will surely feel similar in some ways, a big leap between the 2016 game and the 2021 release should be noticeable — especially if players return to Ratchet and Clank PS4 beforehand. With several legitimate reasons to play through it, the remake could be used to make the wait until June much more bearable.

Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart releases on June 11 for PS5.

MORE: Ratchet and Clank: Life of Pie Animation Isn't Related to Rift Apart