Review: Little Big Planet Karting
Ever wonder what it would be like to drive a car made out of balloons? What about sushi? Little Big Planet Karting has your answer -- and so much more. Just like in previous Little Big Planet titles, you can create levels and share them online. You can also download and enjoy others' creations. But does this latest Little Big Planet title capture the magic of cart racing like the previous titles did for platforming?
PlayStation's adorable Sackboy returns to the Little Big Planet universe, this time racing around worlds while trying to combat the Hoard, a group of evil Sackboys that steal creative elements but never use them for good. As you race against these little foes, you can pick up a multitude of power-ups. Some of these are offensive, such as rockets that can incapacitate your adversaries. Other boosts can turn the tide of a race, such as an oversized rocket-propelled boxing glove that catapults your Sackboy past opponents. Another interesting boost is a fast-forward feature that speeds you up the pack with a VHS-style visual effect.
The main issue I have with some of these power-ups is understanding which one you have armed. If you don't remember the visual cue that corresponds with the boost you just earned, then you might think you're about to fire a rocket when you really are activating the fast-forward power. Another issue was when to use your offensive boosts. Since you can counter opponents' attacks by using your offensive boost, I found myself holding on to the boosts in order to combat any attacks.
The driving felt responsive and forgiving. Negotiating corners isn't too challenging, simply letting up on the gas or slightly touching the brake will suffice in most instances. Drifting is accomplished by pressing the X button, and if held long enough, will provide a temporary speed boost. With the countless amount of visual customizations, you can create your own automotive creation. But I do wish these visual adjustments affected gameplay, providing a layer of depth that could speak to hardcore racing fans. Imagine if using lightweight materials (cardboard or cork) increased your speed but made you more susceptible to attacks while using heavier parts upped your defensive rating but dinged your speed.
Along with the review copy, Sony also sent a PlayStation Move Racing Wheel. This peripheral uses the PlayStation Move to simulate the driving motion. Using the wheel feels intuitive and adds an entertaining element to an already amusing game. But if you're looking for precise handling, the wheel doesn't compare to the DualShock.
The level design is what you'd expect from a Little Big Planet game: whimsical, imaginative and fanciful. It's difficult not to smile as you race through levels teeming with color. From a beach-themed level to a flower-filled track, the diversity fits the franchise's calling card. But if these levels don't tickle your fancy, you can search through user-creative levels for your racing fix. Previous Little Big Planet titles have had a dedicated community that has uploaded countless level creations using the tools provided in the game.
Karting's suite of creation tools is very deep, allowing a staggering amount of customization. But if you're eager to scratch that creative itch, be prepared for a steep learning curve. Unlike previous games in the series, the tutorials are not interactive, instead making you sit and watch instead of applying the information in bite-size chunks. But if you're willing to dedicate the time, you have the ability to concoct some spellbinding tracks.
Little Big Planet Karting successfully blends the world of LBP with the excitement of cart racing. Though the campaign doesn't always hit high notes, it introduces you to the multitude of tracks and power-ups. The creation tools, though complex, afford you the ability to craft anything from the simple to the sophisticated. Though I wish the customization was more than skin deep, it still provides enough depth to quench your creative thirst. It's tough not to smile while playing the latest entry to the Little Big Planet universe. LBP Karting is available now exclusively for the PlayStation 3.