Summary
- Release Year: 2005
- Genres: Adventure, Puzzle, Strategy
- Platforms: PlayStation Portable
- Developers: Namco, NOW Production
- Publishers: Namco
Me & My Katamari: A Cosmic Adventure of Rolling Fun
Released in 2005, Me & My Katamari is the third installment in the Katamari Damacy series of puzzle-action games. Developed by Namco Bandai Games and published by Namco, the game was released for the PlayStation 2 console.
Gameplay
Like its predecessors, Me & My Katamari tasks players with controlling the Prince of All Cosmos as he rolls a sticky ball called a katamari around various environments, collecting objects and growing the ball larger and larger. The game’s objective is to collect enough objects to create new stars and planets for the King of All Cosmos, who has accidentally destroyed the previous ones.
Me & My Katamari introduces several new gameplay elements to the series, including the ability to control the Prince’s cousin, the Princess of All Cosmos. The Princess can use her unique abilities to help the Prince collect objects and avoid obstacles.
The game also features a variety of new environments to explore, each with its own unique challenges. These environments include a beach, a forest, a city, and even outer space.
Story
The story of Me & My Katamari begins when the King of All Cosmos and the Royal Family decide to take a vacation on Earth. However, the King’s over-exuberance creates a tsunami that strikes and devastates nearby Paradise Commonwealth Island.
One of the residents of Paradise Commonwealth Island, a turtle, washes ashore next to the Royal Family and tells them his tale. The King then decides to make new islands for the animals of the Commonwealth with several katamari.
Similar to the previous Katamari titles, the King sends the Prince to the Sunflower Continent, which is full of the paraphernalia used to create new landmasses. The Prince must then roll his katamari around the continent, collecting objects and growing the ball larger and larger.
As the Prince collects objects, he will also encounter a variety of obstacles, such as wind, water, and other hazards. He must use his skills and abilities to overcome these obstacles and continue on his quest to create new stars and planets.
Graphics and Sound
Me & My Katamari features bright and colorful graphics that are full of charm and whimsy. The game’s environments are varied and detailed, and the character designs are both unique and endearing.
The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, featuring a mix of catchy and upbeat tunes that perfectly complement the game’s atmosphere.
Reception
Me & My Katamari was met with critical acclaim upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, charming visuals, and quirky humor. Many reviewers also noted that the game was a significant improvement over its predecessors.
The game was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. It was also nominated for several awards, including the BAFTA Games Award for Best Casual Game.
Legacy
Me & My Katamari is considered to be one of the best games in the Katamari Damacy series. The game’s unique gameplay, charming visuals, and quirky humor have made it a favorite among fans of the series and newcomers alike.
The game has also been cited as an influence on other games, such as Super Mario Galaxy and Kirby’s Epic Yarn.
Conclusion
Me & My Katamari is a delightful and charming puzzle-action game that is sure to please fans of the series and newcomers alike. The game’s unique gameplay, vibrant visuals, and quirky humor make it a must-play for anyone looking for a fun and relaxing experience.
Review Score
8/10