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LocoRoco 2 Review
Written by Robert Falcon on Thursday, February 12, 2009
Delightful music and graphics, fun gameplay, completely impossible to resist the happiness, decent multiplayer, $20.
Easy bosses, only a few new items separate it from the original.
It's official: LocoRoco 2 is a game that is completely impossible to play grumpy. We put it to the test the other day, feeling down after receiving some bad news. We played a few levels and dang it, the LocoRoco got to us. After several minutes, we turned those frowns upside down.
The game is very similar to the original. You control the planet that the Locos roll around on, tilting it left and right using the PSP's shoulder buttons. You can also hit the buttons together to force them into the air, enabling them to strike the vicious Mojas or grab onto vines to swing to a higher ledge. You'll need all the courage you can muster to beat the Mojas, enemies that like causing a big mess. Fortunately, they're easily beaten, so it won't be long before you bring sunshine to the land.
Gameplay hasn't changed much from the first game. There are some new swimming segments, and a mini-game was added where you can tap along to musical notes during special segments. Aside from that, you still roll along the terrain, occasionally breaking your blob-like Loco into smaller pieces to progress through smaller areas. That's OK, because it's still a lot of fun. Sony knows what made the first game click and brings it back in droves for the sequel. It's a little too easy, since you can probably beat the game (and the incredibly simple final boss) in one sitting. Still, there's so much to collect (fruit, the happy little MuiMui characters) that it's worth playing several times.
LocoRoco 2's levels are wonderfully designed, with lots of hills to slide down, friends to call and wind gusts that will blow the Locos through the air. The music is noteworthy, offbeat and fun to listen to, just like in the original. There are also various types of LocoRocos to choose from, unlocked as you proceed through the game. Each one of them shows a certain sense of emotion, looking fearful when they're in danger and smiling once they reach the end of a level.
Multiplayer actually plays a big part in LocoRoco 2, as you can play six mini-games and even hook up with three other players through AdHoc. Our personal favorites are a variation of Whac-a-Mole and competitive racing for fruit. They're simple in design, but nice to have. It's also worth noting that the game has a budget price of $19.99. Considering the effects of the recession and the lack of quality games these days for the PSP, this is a godsend.
No, LocoRoco 2 won't challenge you, but its happy presentation, fun gameplay and bountiful extras will keep you rolling for hours. Shake the blues and enjoy.
