LocoRoco 2 Preview

Pankoraketon-ton!!!

Do you remember the first time you picked up a copy of LocoRoco and popped it into your PSP? That sensation of entertainment and confusion that comes with playing games in the "I don’t know what the f*** to call this game" genre (IDKWTFTCTG). Very few games have made it into this prestigious grouping and all of them have come from Japan. If a game features unique or quirky controls and a colorful atmosphere, there’s a good chance it’s in this vein. Another trademark feature of such games is they almost always seem to receive a sequel.

Luckily, LocoRoco will be making a return with LocoRoco 2. If you’ll recall the planet of the Loco’s was invaded by the Mojas, a group of squidily, pastafarian-looking mischief makers bent on destruction and their leader, Bommucho. Apparently, they didn’t get the idea the first time, though, and have come back to take over, again, only this time they have an evil song to carry out their misdeeds.

It’s up to the goopy inhabitants of the LocoRoco planet to once again save the day. The last time around, all they could do was roll with the left and right with tilting of the world; in the upcoming sequel, you’ll have a bunch of new moves at your disposal. Now you can swim and sing for more than just ambiance.

The soundtrack retains the same quirky Katamari-like charm of the original and takes it to the next step. To counter the effects of the Mojas' evil song, you’ll now have to play a rhythm-based mini-game with musical notes. As you collect the music notes, more level features will be unlocked, such as new songs for your LocoRoco to sing and easier-to-collect currency.

But that’s not all - the environment is more interactive too. You’ll have the chance to slip into boulders and smash through walls. You can leap into the air and swing from a vine, all the while singing your quirky little songs.

Along with the main story, there’s some new mini-games. You can make a house for your friends, the MuiMui, using items that you find throughout the story levels. As you upgrade the MuiMui’s domicile, you’ll earn rewards to use throughout the rest of the game. Think of it as an ant farm but with less effort and much cooler furniture.

There’s also a game that has you use stamps that you collect to complete photos and gain currency. On top of all that, the MuiMui will keep a photo album of all your greatest Loco Roco memories. Just in case you’re feeling nostalgic.

So what’s not like? If you were a fan of the first game or love you a good IDKWTFTCTG like Katamari Damacy or Patapon, then LocoRoco 2 will be right up your alley. It’s a casual puzzle platformer that you can’t help but find entertaining without ever becoming horribly frustrated. It’s simple fun at its very best. Look for your second helping of LocoRoco to be released on Feburary 10 this year.