Wacky, wonky, and wonderfully weird.
The gameplay in this title is very simple and entirely unique. Using the analog sticks exclusively, you will roll around your “katamari” in order to collect everything in your path. You will start off very small collecting small items such as dice, golf balls, mice, and dominos, but will soon make your way up to larger things such as cows, cars, and even people. The game is broken up into ten levels with the difficulty only increasing in very small increments. You do have time limits for each stage, but the time given is more than ample to complete the objectives of each stage. Upon completing each level, you’ll be treated to a very strange yet unusually entertaining cut-scene showing a family living casually through their daily lives despite the fact that their planet is slowly being consumed by a giant ball. The cut-scenes don’t make a whole lot of sense, but since nothing else in this game does either, they fit in quite well. Katamari Damacy isn’t very challenging or very long, but it easily makes up for these shortcomings with its sheer amount of fun and clever idiosyncrasies. There is also a multiplayer feature included, however it’s a bit half-baked and won’t hold your attention for more than a day or two.
From a clearly technical standpoint, the graphics in Katamari Damacy might not impress you. But, this is easily made up for with its sheer style and massive areas to explore. There isn’t a lot of variety in the environments, but there are literally thousands of different items that you can roll up into your katamari. Basically, nothing will amaze you visually, but the clever style that went into this game easily makes up for its lack of technical prowess.
In terms of sound and music, Katamari Damacy is an amazing achievement in every way. The soundtrack is as crazy as you might expect from such an unusual title and after playing, you’ll literally be humming the game’s various tracks for days or even weeks to come. The sound effects are also hilarious as each item that gets rolled into your katamari is accompanied by a satisfying effect. Cows will moo, people will yell, little kids will giggle, and it just makes the experience that much more satisfying and immersive.
In the end, Katamari Damacy is a truly great achievement in a variety of ways. Its unique concept, addictive gameplay, fantastic music, and a bevy of clever touches, make it one of the best ways to spend twenty bucks. That’s right; Katamari Damacy is coming to the United States with the budget price tag of twenty dollars. It’s an absolute steal at this price and any gamer looking for something a little different, should by all means pick up this truly great game.