LittleBigPlanet 2 Review for PlayStation 3 (PS3)

System: PS3
Dev: Media Molecule
Pub: Sony Computer Entertainment
Release: January 18, 2011
Players: 1-4
Screen Resolution: 480p-1080p	comic mischief and mild cartoon violence

However, the game has included some new features that will appeal to the less scientific-minded this time around. Instead of just giving you the tools to make projectile weapons, the game gives you templates with which to work. And because predictable enemies are boring, the game features tools you can use to fashion your own simplistic AI opponents. The possibilities for create mode are as wide as you want them to be, and the game even includes some visual aids to help you identify problems with your level (such as broken switches or runaway elements) before you publish.

LittleBigPlanet 2 Screenshot

The creation elements are definitely what is going to give LittleBigPlanet 2 its staying power, and whether you fancy yourself as a creator or a downloader, there is plenty to be excited about with LittleBigPlanet 2. Though the original had some major staying power, this follow-up includes even more content for every type of gamer. And the best news is that all of your content from the original carries over to the sequel, which means you can augment your old levels with LittleBigPlanet 2's new tech. Of course, if you are a newbie to the LittleBigPlanet universe, this makes it easy to jump feet first into its vast universe. The game features an expansive tutorial mode that includes both the basics from the original as well as new-feature specific tutorials. Though there are fifty tutorials overall, you are never forced to go through them all (though some pretty sweet goodies await you if you do!). However, the name of the game is really experimentation, and you have ample opportunities to do just that.

LittleBigPlanet 2 is definitely a worthy successor to the original. Though it has only been a few short years since LittleBigPlanet was originally released (and there is still quite a lot of worth in that title), LittleBigPlanet 2 evolves the series to a point that could not have been achieved with the tools given in the first title. Expansive new creative tools including programmable AI, new gameplay elements, and an even more streamlined interface make LittleBigPlanet 2 a small step for Sackboy, but a giant leap forward for all gamers. No matter what your individual skill level or genre preferences are there will be something in LittleBigPlanet 2 for you to enjoy, and this is one game that is easy to come back to on a regular basis.

By Amanda L. Kondolojy
CCC Senior Contributing Writer

RATING OUT OF 5

RATING DESCRIPTION

4.7

Graphics
Visuals are sharp, and the framerate is consistent even in the busiest of creation scenarios.

4.5

Control
Though some of the grappling controls take some getting used to, the platform sections are by and large simple to control. Creative modes have a tweaked interface that improves control since the last entry.

4.5

Music / Sound FX / Voice Acting
The background music is just as varied as last time, and if you don't like the initial offerings, the music sequencer is a welcome addition to the game's create mode.

4.9

Play Value
Though you can power through the game's platforming levels in a day or two, getting 100% of all the goodies will take some time, and the endless community offerings should keep you busy for months to come.

4.7

Overall Rating - Must Buy
Not an average. See Rating legend below for a final score breakdown.

Review Rating Legend
0.1 - 1.9 = Avoid	2.5 - 2.9 = Average	3.5 - 3.9 = Good	4.5 - 4.9 = Must Buy
2.0 - 2.4 = Poor	3.0 - 3.4 = Fair	4.0 - 4.4 = Great	5.0 = The Best

Game Features:

Sackboy is at it again! Join Sackboy in a completely new Play, Create, Share adventure.

A world of Play is at your fingertips! Whether it's the fifty-plus levels in the whimsical storyline, or the endless multiplayer fun - there's an infinite amount of gaming experiences for you and your friends.

Create your own games! Customize everything! From your Sackboy's appearance to creating any game you want - racing games, mini-games, action/adventure games, and even multiplayer shooters.

Games to Share! Go online and discover new games that other players have created. With over 2MM levels already there, your gaming options are endless.

Enjoy four-player support online and offline in created games using new features and abilities.