Best Video Game Art Direction of 2021
First Runner-Up: Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Staff Writer Omar Banat: There’s just something special about a new Ratchet & Clank. The series doesn’t have as many frequent releases as it used to but the magic is still there each time a new title is added to the franchise. They’re always wildly fun games that have plenty of witty writing. But praise for the game’s art style usually takes a back seat to gameplay and writing.
This time around, there’s no denying that Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is an absolute work of art. The power of the PS5 shines as every environment is bathed in impressive ray-traced lighting. You can even tell the difference between objects that are reflecting natural light versus ones that are reflecting artificial light. Additionally, the way that different surfaces reflect light just adds more realism to the look.
Despite the realism, there’s no doubt that Rift Apart is still an overall colorful and almost cartoony celebration. Shades of purple and pops of gold are the main colors you’ll see throughout the game. Even the main protagonists, Ratchet and Rivet, mirror this color palette.
Yet, each world also has its own distinct look that makes them instantly distinguishable from one another. On top of that, each planet feels like it fits in the game world. Despite their differences, there’s a clear and concise vision across each location that manages to make them all feel unique, yet tied together. All of this makes Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart a visual masterpiece.
