LocoRoco

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Anyone who doesn't smile while playing this little beauty is dead inside

Words: Nathan Irvine, PSM3 UK

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Along the way you'll meet a host of equally cute characters - like an owl that chews you up and spits you out into a different shape (rectangles or squares and the like, which helps you to squeeze through awkwardly-shaped gaps), angry green platforms which fire you high into the sky should you step on their heads - and MuiMuis. These little blue fellas are hidden around the world and reward you with furniture parts to create a house for your LocoRoco to live in.

Then there are the not-so-nice Mojas, who are trying to take over the world and will suck miniature LocoRocos away from your giant mass. Lose them all and you're dead. These dreadlocked enemies range in size, from super-small limpets that weigh you down to absolute bloody giants, although you can butt them to death if you're quick enough. Fortunately, that's it as far as the violence goes in LocoRoco. And a very good thing too.

Above: Most of LocoRoco's mates are equally cheerful, just like this pink chap

To be honest, we've never played a game so odd and yet so utterly entertaining. What with its bizarre settings (a whale's belly being one), unique control system and lashings of effortless humour, it's like the first time we played Katamari - but far more infectious.

The different LocoRocos should be downright annoying - especially the orange one which sounds like a gang of whiny kids - but when they whimper in fear as a Moja approaches, you can't help wanting to steer them clear of danger like a protective parent - shouting at the menace to stay away from your children. The bright and bold visuals draw you in like wasps to lager and the lovely touches - such as the tickle-roots, which make LocoRoco giggle and shake - are fine examples of attention to detail.