Figured I'd try to get a general discussion thread going on this comm. If there's interest I'll make a new thread every now and then.
I've been going through the Ratchet and Clank series on PS2 and am just starting up Going Commando. Emulating everything on PCSX2 (ask me about emulation for anything ever and I'll be glad to help you) which has been a really great experience so far. This franchise has lots of nostalgia for me and represents the best of the PS2-era platformers (although I did love both Sly and Jak). I think the reason I've always like the R&C series more than Jak is that the weapons were more creative/fun to use than those in Jak 2 onwards.
I'm thinking about trying out the System Shock Remake this weekend but never played the original. I'm aware it's a much older design-style of game but it looks like something I could really enjoy.
Interesting detail about the state censors in Japan, but not all that surprising. I'm reminded of when I recently watched Kurosawa's Drunken Angel, which was made in 1948 and takes place in a bombed out Japanese town and was subject to the censorship of the American occupation.
During the final long battle of Judgment, you fight a shitload of cops. No twists, just straight up cops. And it fucking rocks. Aside from that, I think your theory probably holds water.