Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters marks a number of firsts for the duo. Primarily the series' first foray beyond its PlayStation 2 roots, Size Matters also represents the first game from the newly formed High Impact Games, the first studio to handle the franchise instead of creator Insomniac Games. Yet despite the many firsts, Size Matters delivers an incredibly polished package that barely suffers from the grand transitions of both system and developer.

Much like the PlayStation 2 based Ratchet & Clank games; Size Matters presents a quality mix of platforming and action. As Ratchet & Clank navigate through the many levels and solve the occasional simple puzzle, bolts flock to the duo after nearly every action, be it a foe's defeat or the destruction of a wooden crate. Players then use them to purchase weaponry, ranging from traditional laser pistols to outlandish beehives and the self-appointed Agents of Doom. Each weapon grows more powerful with use, fortunate since the game's many foes increase in difficulty as players progress.

Along the way, numerous distractions tempt players. Bits of different armor types scattered throughout the levels increase Ratchet's defense, with the collection of an entire type of armor granting special abilities, like setting foes ablaze. Titanium Bolts hidden in nooks and crannies encourage exploration, rewarding players with a few different looks for Ratchet. Various mini-game challenges, including a destruction derby and some space combat bits, offer plenty of enjoyment.

The entire time, the camera and controls function with nary a problem, a remarkable achievement for a 3-D game originally designed around an entirely different control scheme. Instead of the PlayStation 2's right analog stick, shoulder buttons L and R handle camera rotation. Switching between the directional pad and the PSP's analog nub allows players to explore the world and strafe opponents with ease. Occasionally the camera displays an awkward angle, generally when backed into a corner, but these moments rarely, if ever, interfere with game play.

Unfortunately, players will complete the short campaign in roughly five or six hours. Thankfully, the Challenge Mode (available after beating the game) greatly extends its life. Allowing users to carry over all of their previously earned bolts, experience and weapons; Challenge Mode notches up the difficulty while providing additional content, including new armor, new weapons and new weapon upgrades. Titan forms of each weapon further strengthen the arsenal's longevity, supplying even more levels of power dependent on the resulting destruction. Furthermore, a handy bolt multiplier, reliant on defeating enemies without taking a hit, helps reduce the tedium of collecting while also rewarding excellent skills and careful play.