Little Big Planet 2
Simply put, this game is a pure slice of gaming brilliance. It’s rare that you get to see a game that is void of violence and guns these days, and it’s almost unheard of to have a good one. Little Big Planet 2 is a shining example that gaming can be innocent, whilst being immersive and fun.
Essentially, LBP 2 is a side-scrolling platform game with bright colours and elements of puzzle thrown in for good measure. If you’ve played LBP before, not much has changed in terms of game mechanics and premise, but so much has been added in and tweaked to make it an even more smile inducing experience.
Just like the previous games, the patchwork aesthetics remain (with a little polish of course); the fantastic Playstation mascot is back, in the form of a fully customisable Sack boy.
I didn’t collect every piece of extra clothing or sticker, but there are thousands of clothing options to dress your grinning sack character. The story isn’t exactly what you are playing this game for, but it is good fun and pushes the platforming environments forward, allowing for something new to look at whilst jumping around.
There is more to each change in environment though, as each place brings something completely new and innovative to the gaming experience. You will be surprised in almost every level by a new addition to the gameplay mechanic, or a different take on a regularly done puzzle. Entire levels will be based around racing on the back of a rat against opponents, or switched on its side completely to allow for an asteroid-style shooter.
Pick-ups have been introduced into the game, in the form of gloves and additions that your customisable sack boy can place over his sewn up little hands. One major change is the regular use of the grappling hook; things can get pretty hectic as you propel yourself (and your friends in the co-op mode) around the environment.
Another is the strength glove, which allows you to pick up larger items to build bridges and throw enemies around. There are so many new additions to the game that make LBP2 a much denser experience to its predecessor.
The levels that the designers have made are impressive, and a perfect example of what can be done using the colourful engine. The online community level editor makes a return to LBP2, meaning that the possibilities are endless; already I have seen levels that don’t look like they are from the LBP world, all made up by creative game player’s minds.
Anyone can access the levels you make, and you can access anyone else’s creations; some aren’t exactly brilliant, but the rating system helps you to determine which are worth your time.
You can play this game on your own, but the real fun comes in the form of co-operative and online play. Up to four players can play on one level at a time; some puzzles can only be solved by having a certain amount of characters on screen at one time.
Unlocking competitive bonus levels becomes a rewarding task, meaning you will play through levels over and over with new friends to receive all the awards.
As well as looking as good as any other PS3 game out today, LBP2 sounds fantastic. The score complements the on-screen mayhem, dropping at times of relaxation and increasing in the hyper moments where the game truly shines.
Stephen Fry narrating the action works absolutely perfectly, inviting you in to play with his warm and eloquent words.
There is so much content included In LBP2, that means there is so much to say about it. It really is the case that you should just pick it up and play it yourself, to really see the surprises waiting around every corner.
You will have a great puzzle/platform experience, you will have fun throwing your friends around the colourful environments and you will have a smile on your face whilst you’re doing it. LBP2 is a near perfect platforming game for both adults and children.
Verdict: 9/10
Platform: PS3 Exclusive
Genre: Platformer
Publisher/Developer: Sony/Media Molecule
Release: January 2011
Female First Edward Lewis