Summary
- Release Year: 2004
- Genres: Adventure, Puzzle
- Platforms: PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3
- Developers: Keita Takahashi, NOW Production
- Publishers: Namco
Katamari Damacy: A Wacky and Wonderful Cosmic Adventure
Released in 2004 for the PlayStation 2, Katamari Damacy is a quirky and charming game that quickly became a cult classic. Developed by Namco (now Bandai Namco), Katamari Damacy is a physics-based puzzle game that tasks players with rolling up objects of increasing size to rebuild the stars.
Gameplay
The game’s premise is simple yet addictive: the player controls a tiny prince who pushes a sticky ball called a Katamari around various environments, collecting objects that stick to it. As the Katamari grows in size, it can collect larger and larger objects, eventually rolling up entire buildings and even people.
The game takes place in stylized versions of Japanese houses, cities, and environs. Each level has a specific size requirement for the Katamari, and the player must collect enough objects to meet this requirement within a time limit. Bonus missions restore constellations and have their own unique restrictions.
Katamari Damacy is controlled from a third-person perspective using the analog sticks on the PS2 controller. The left stick controls the prince’s movement, while the right stick controls the Katamari. The prince can also jump and use a special ability to slow down time.
Story
The story of Katamari Damacy is equally wacky and charming. The game begins with the King of All Cosmos accidentally destroying all of the stars. Feeling guilty, the King tasks his tiny son, the prince, with rebuilding the stars using a Katamari.
As the prince rolls up objects and grows the Katamari, he meets a cast of quirky characters, including a Japanese girl who can feel the cosmos and a giant crab that wants to eat the Katamari.
Graphics and Sound
Katamari Damacy’s graphics are simple yet effective. The game’s world is rendered in a colorful and stylized manner, with exaggerated proportions and bright colors. The character designs are equally charming, with the prince and other characters sporting big heads and exaggerated features.
The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, featuring a mix of catchy and whimsical tunes that perfectly complement the game’s quirky atmosphere.
Reception
Katamari Damacy was a critical and commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide. The game was praised for its unique gameplay, charming visuals, and catchy soundtrack. It has since been ported to multiple platforms, including the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PC.
Legacy
Katamari Damacy has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. The game’s unique gameplay and quirky charm have inspired numerous imitators, and it is considered one of the most innovative and original games of its generation.
The game has also spawned several sequels and spin-offs, including Katamari Damacy 2, Me & My Katamari, and Katamari Forever.
Conclusion
Katamari Damacy is a truly unique and unforgettable game. With its quirky gameplay, charming visuals, and catchy soundtrack, it is a must-play for fans of puzzle games, platformers, and anyone looking for a truly original and fun experience.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
