Although the game appeals to people of all ages, Beautiful Katamari is very challenging, even for adults. Don't let the adorable graphics and simple rules fool you — expect to fail and replay levels often. I experienced pains in my hands that gave me Nintendo Thumb flashbacks. Your poor digits don't get a break even after completing a level, because that unlocks Time Attack mode. Furthermore, achieving a perfect score on a level unlocks Eternal Mode. These options are guaranteed to entice you to replay a level constantly and inflict more punishment on your thumbs. Since there are so few levels in the game however, high replayability is important.
Katamari fans will be pleased to find that this game retains the quirky attributes they know and love. The characters are still colorful, oddly-shaped, and exist in an abstractly offbeat environment. The J-Pop infused soundtrack is once again catchy and addictive; in fact, I have the import CD. And yes, the King of All Cosmos is comically narcissistic and condescending as ever, criticizing you if a katamari isn't up to snuff (and it rarely is, even if you meet his objectives!).
Whether you're a die-hard Katamari addict or a newcomer to the series, I suggest checking out Beautiful Katamari. But don't blame me if you find yourself humming upbeat J-Pop as you bandage your blistered thumbs.
Beautiful Katamari is rated E (Everyone) for Alcohol Reference, Comic Mischief, and Mild Fantasy Violence.
Article comments
1 - Ken Edwards
Nicely written review Kaonashi. The $40 "budget" price on this one is nice, too. Until of course you consider that it costs something like $22.50 to purchase the seven DLC levels. So much for that budget price.