Published by: Sony Computer Entertainment
Developed by: SCE Studios Japan
Genre: Action and Adventure
Release Dates:
US: September 5, 2006
Japan: December 31, 2006
Europe: Summer 2006A yellow, smiling blob of joy. That’s all you are, or rather, all you can control. Upon the release of LocoRoco in 2005, the console known as PSP was changed from just a console mirroring its sisters, to a leading game system in its class. It brought to the PSP what was missing: plain and simple fun. Not only is it idiosyncratic, but its engaging and very addicting. It’s a grab-and-go game that ultimately will impress you as a gamer.Playing as the planet that hosts the two peaceful species: LocoRocs and Mui Muis, you must aid the LocoRocos in protecting the planet from the invading Moja tribe. Throughout your campaign you will meet many LocoRoco of all colors, sizes and characteristics, several enemies and more importantly, friendly organisms that aid you in your quest to protect your planet.The most striking characteristic of this game is its ability to grow on you. It also has an amazing soundtrack, nice gameplay, a simple yet impressive display, and even intriguing mini-games. The schematics of the game seems to be very superficial at first glance, but as you progress through the game, more complex puzzles and obstacles will begin to appear, thereby conveying to the player that this game is not all about looks and sound.
Jump for the skies!Much like the Mario games of the past, the goal of each stage in ‘Story Mode’ is to guide the LocoRocos that you have collected to the end of said stage. As you explore the various worlds and stages (ex. [world]1-2[stage]), you can notice the effort the programmers and graphics artists put into making this game a success.The movement of every object is perfectly timed to give off a visually stunning effect. For example, in certain worlds, at times when your LocoRocos jump, little leaves float around in the air. Or when you rustle leaves on the ground, little animals, Pickories or what appears to be flying fruit, jump up and hover over you. These flying fruits are what are used as currency when playing any of the three mini-games. Hidden in the each stage are special locations that host a variety of unlockable content. Most hidden content is in the form of LocoRoco house parts.Gameplay is easy. To move your LocoRoco troops simply use the L and R buttons to steer them in the desired direction. However, since you are the planet you really only control yourself, therefore, there is a little delay as the LocoRoco roll onto the side you tilted yourself to (fundamental concept of physics: gravity). Also the ability to make the LocoRocos jump is designated by the pressing of the L and R buttons simultaneously. There is a special power that only your LocoRocos have: they can split up into smaller LocoRocos, or come together to form a really big blob. This skill is necessary in solving most of the puzzles throughout each stage.
Get out of the way, its a Moja!The game may look nice and easy, but this is a misconception. As you progress through the various worlds, the game gets increasingly difficult, some critics claim it to get ‘nightmarishly difficult.’ Though it keeps its remarkably cute design, it constantly sends a surge of Moja troops your way, especially at the end stages of each world.Unlockables are one of the major emphases of the game. Most of the content you unlock comes in the form of ‘LocoRoco House pieces.’ These can be used in the mini-game to decorate your house. There are over 300 pieces of furniture that can be acquired through the main story, playing other mini-games, or collecting all the Mui Mui possible. Interestingly enough, the LocoRoco house can be seen as another mini-game as there is an option available that allows you to place LocoRoco in your home and let them freely play with your design.Like most of the earlier games for the PSP, it lacks Wi-Fi play. Though the Wi-Fi scene was not really emphasized in the early stages of the console, this is an excusable factor. There is however, a wireless mode that does allow for Ad-Hoc play, obviously between other LocoRoco owners. Upon its release in international market, the game sold over 10 million titles to the public and is even being used to teach math to sixth graders in Japan.
Climbing some stairsIn July, an announcement for the sequel, LocoRoco 2 was subject to be released in late 2008. Along with the sequel to Patapon coming next year, the sales for PSP and its games will most definitely soar due to the popularity of both these games.
Be on the look-out for the sequel and enjoy this game in the interval.Scores:
Presentation: Compared to the games of this year, it does not really stand up to the competition. However, it does contend with releases of its time period (Tekken 5 Dark Resurrection for example). Though the genres are completely different, LocoRoco appeals more due to its childlike characteristics, puzzling yet addicting gameplay, and its amazing pastel colors and backgrounds. 9/10Graphics: The setup of the game is truly distinctive. The menus are simple yet slick. The little cutscenes when you discover a new LocoRoco or a new character look very sharp and are complemented by great programmed movement. Simply put, lovely. 9/10Gameplay: Its really simple, just three buttons controls almost every movement of the LocoRocos. I do however; wish they would have included more special moves. The levels do pose a challenge as you near the finale of the game, but what’s a game without a challenge? 8/10Sound: This is one of the forefronts of the game. From the title menu throughout the game is the constant sound of cute little children singing. The ‘album’ is currently available for downloading on the PSN network free of charge to registered members. 9/10Lasting appeal: There is no side story, no extra levels, no cheats available. So what makes this game so appealing? There are 40 levels to complete, hundreds of unlockables just awaiting your acquisition, the game to replay and several mini-games to whet your thirst for appeal. 9/10Total: LocoRoco receives 44 out of 50.Closing comments: This is a real simple game that appeals to all ages. This is one of the best games ever created for the PSP, and is certainly worth a little time. With its sequel set to release sometime this year, there are questions circulating whether it can live up to its predecessor. However, knowing that its previous project made a huge success worldwide, I am very confident they will not fail the fans. Hope you all enjoy this and happy gaming! – dmac154