LittleBigPlanet
Platform: Playstation 3
Just what's going on here anyway?
You love this game. No really, you do. You probably just don't know it yet. "Who are all those guys?" you may ask, leering suspiciously at the cover. Those are sackpeople. The loveable, customizable characters you control in LittleBigPlanet. For 1-4 players in single screen co-op, or online play. A classic "platformer", this game is for the most part two-dimensional. You (and optional friends) will run, jump, grab and swing through a gamut of strangely stylized levels resembling the kinds of worlds you'd create if you were trapped in an Arts and Crafts class for the Slightly Cracked(tm).
Is it FUN?!?!?!
Absolutely. If you're new to the gaming scene this is an excellent place to start. With controls reminiscent of typical side-scrolling type games, anyone who has played the original Super Mario Bros will have a general understanding of how it works. Each level has sections that can only be accessed once pieces from levels further on have been acquired, encouraging level replay even through the first playthrough. Each level and unlockable section gives you some piece of clothing with which you can outfit your Sack person.
Is it interesting?
This game is definitely eye candy. Each level is a different and quirky/strange story line that will keep you interested and moving along. The music is fun and eclectic, and the levels are unique and fun to explore, though increasingly challenging as they progress. The level styles, character customization and hidden areas will keep you coming back for more.
Will it make me want to throw my controller across the room... again?
Entertaining from the start, the tutorial (narrated by the amazing Stephen Fry) eases you step by step into the game play. "But Hatter!" you exclaim, "I am a gaming WIZ! I bleed pixels! I don't need *gasp!* Instructions!" Well, so you don't good sir! (Yes you do.) But it's presented so well, you'd be silly to miss it. The levels do get pretty challenging fairly quickly. Beginning players may find themselves frustrated while moving along the storyline, but the online play, and the online user made levels should continue to keep any player satisfied.
Will this game consume my life?
You will most likely find yourself coming back for more, and even more likely to show your friends any time they come over. The only potential snag is if you hit a difficult spot you can't get through, and end up finding another game with which to distract yourself.
Is it worth it?
Definitely so. As a casual multiplayer, it's exciting, and fun, and you can spend hours on it or just kick through a few levels, no matter the level of gamer you're playing with.
