LittleBigPlanet 2 [PS3]

[JP]

Wasn't sure if this needed it's own thread but I suppose it's likely there will be news at this E3 this year.

I think we all knew it was on the way, especially after musician announced Ochre (http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=ochre&aq=f) that he was licensed by Sony to produce some of the music on Twitter. That Tweet was of course removed within minutes after Sony found out about it.

There's new info on a few sites that has apparently been leaked by somebody on the dev team.


LBP 2 has less of a focus on platforming altogether and it's more of a platform to actually create games with
There is an all-new level creator and it is not just a tool to create platform games.
As examples, the game 100% encourages the player to create game types and wants you to make a shooter, a racer, puzzle games, Space Invaders clones, even RPGs
A player can even customize a HUD. The example given is a health bar for a fighting game.
A Media Molecule developer has created a fully-functioning Command & Conquer Clone
Media Molecule loves that a lot of user-created levels in LBP1 were homages to classic games and laments that so many manipulations of the creation tools were necessary to do them.
Sackboy won't need to be "hidden behind the curtain" when you make games with LBP2.
There is a new super-important creator tool called "direct control seats"
(from previous point) In LBP1, lots of people made rudimentary "hold R1 to accelerate" vehicles. Mark Healy created a car out of rubber wheels and a bottle, then placed a direct control seat in it. He pulled up an interface that resembled a PS3 controller and assigned commands to buttons.
Example given was assigning Sixaxis tilt for forward and reverse, horn on the X button.
You are no longer limited to the game's stock sound effects. You can record your own sounds and voices, attaching them to characters or objects. Magic Mouth from the original LBP is gone
Direct control seat's control scheme is instantly accessible and you can attach it only to the part of the vehicle you want it to control.
Example was given about the 8/16-bit remakes/tributes having to use the signature gameplay mechanics of LBP. That is no longer true in LBP2. A creator can place a direct control seat on their own platforming protagonist and complete it with a customized control scheme.
Example of the previous was Yoshi's Island. If a player creates the perfect recreation of the SNES-era jump they can share it with anyone in the community.
There is an in-game microchip that functions as a calculator and it is a direct response/homage to PSN user Upsilandre (seriously, he's mentioned by name)
Enemies in the original title could only be programmed with super-basic commands and most resembled marionettes.
Users will be able to take a template for an enemy called a Sackbot, tweak the AI and dress it in any way they choose.
Creators can choose the weak points on the Sackbot, determine if it is scared of heights, and even program acting routines.
A disco scene was set up by Media Molecule and two employees recorded together on a single Sackbot. They moved its arms and bobbed its head in a dancing routine. JUST the AI was copied and pasted onto twenty different Sackbots. Each Sackbot was given its own unique look.
There are now movie editing options as well.
Every LBP2 player will receive their own profile on LBP.me. It will display your activity feed as well as previews of their own stages
There will be user-created integration in QR codes as well. They can be printed on advertisements, business cards, and automatically load a level when held up to the PlayStation Eye. There is no special menu to do this. Any time the PS3 is turned on and running LBP 2, you can wave it in front of the Eye.
If you are not near your PS3 you can take a quick photo with your smartphone to see an online preview of the level and add it directly to your level queue.
For creators of multiple levels, you will be able to string your stages together so that they flow from one level to the next.
Sackbots can be drastically increased or decreased in physical size.
Sackbots can be controlled by direct control seats as well.
There is a new gadget (like the MGS paintball gun). It is a big-ass grappling hook.
Media Molecule says explicitly there are multiple more gadgets coming.
All DLC from LBP1 transfers over to LBP2. Including downloaded content packs, costumes, etc.
There is a major overhaul to the story level as well. There's the same 3-plane perspective for the story mode and the levels so far have a similar run-jump-grab platform style.
Storyline is not country-based like last time, but is based in periods of time.

As is standard, it's best to file it under rumour at the moment but much of the info does seem to tie in with previous comments made by MediaMolecule.

I thought the first one was a bit special and if this is true it has potential to be really good...hopefully.

[Darwock]

I was always against this in the sense that it would undermine the original (which doesn't need to be replaced IMO) but it sounds like they are changing this significantly. New game types/HUDs etc sounds very interesting indeed...

[JP]

That's exactly what I was thinking, to release what would essentially be new levels with a few improvements runs contrary to what the first game stood for.

This really looks to be far more than just a sequel if those notes are to be believed. Just after those details were leaked MediaMolecule updated their Facebook & Twitter status with this message...

We're excited to say that we are making LittleBigPlanet 2 - Full mega details on Monday (10th May '10).
...which gives the leak a little more credence.

I'm really please that it's possible to carry the DLC from the first game across into the second as I must have spent a fortune on it. I got rid of my copy a while back but I've just ordered the LBP: Game of The Year Edition with the exclusive content as I still have quite a bit of the multi-player stuff to do which means there's still content to unlock.

The original game wasn't perfect but it was an absolute to play for me and it still shocks me that it has some of my favourite platforming levels in the game.

I never really got into the create side of things as I lacked the patience needed to create good levels but there was some really good stuff out there. Although I son't want to miss out on that side of things again I'd really rather they didn't simplify the create side if it was going to reduce options for people.

I'll probably just stick with ModNation Racers when it comes to creating as that seems far more streamlined even though it doesn't seem to have the depth of LBP when it comes to creation.

[Number45]

Curious to see where they go with this. OPM have tweeted that it looks amazing (No surprise I guess). I enjoyed LBP anyway - there's more than enough content in there even without the creation to warrant the purchase.

I wonder what this means for the supposed Move patch for the original though? Seems pointless adding it in there at all, unless they just want to do it to bolster the list of games that support the Move.

[Ouenben]

Looks like I'm rebuying a PS3!

[Family Fry]

Here are some pics, I have seen the scans but these look like captures and not scans.
If they are though by all means remove

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4066/4591592646_be7a8451d7_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4067/4591592752_90a09a2de0_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3328/4591592696_c8231d2d0f_o.jpg

[Tig]

this is like every megaton in one for me!



what they're promising here is insane

[crazytaxinext]

I'd be curious to see how they manage the tools to make it adept at fitting around several game types rather than purely platforming now, though it'll likely be a very soft launch sales wise.

[merf]

I know they have a track record of delivering something in the style of this but it does feel a bit like a variant of the Scribblenauts thread.

colour me sceptical, it will do a lot of what they say but as soon as you add you the play/create/share element to a game you get substandard versions of what they set out to allow you to build.

the pitch is a game builder that lets you build any type of game - sounds doubtfull to me.

[Number45]

Seems like embargo will left at 13:00. Looking forward to a blow-out of information on this! :happy:

[Tig]

the pitch is a game builder that lets you build any type of game - sounds doubtfull to me.

They were nearly there with LBP1 :)


If you check out the most ingenious levels from the best LBP creators (which are admittedly hard to find), a lot of them bear no resemblance to LBP's base gameplay.
And those were created in an editor which provides no tools at all for altering the core gameplay mechanics or defining behaviours.


With the new tools specifically for changing the core gameplay, and the new advanced logic system, the players who pushed LBP1 to the limit are going to start coming out with truly mad stuff, believe me.
The new features read like a Create Mode fanatic's wishlist.



Of course there will be limits. But this is no Scribblenauts.
I reckon LBP's create mode overdelivered if anything

[crocky-chocky]

Holy Toledo.

http://www.eurogamer.net/videos/littlebigplanet-2-announcement

So much radness in those 2 short minutes!

[Number45]

http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2010/05/10/wowsers-its-littlebigplanet-2/

http://www.littlebigplanet.com/en-gb/2/

Not really much of a blow out. Be interesting to see more in depth coverage from external sources.

EDIT: This is interesting though:


Circuit boards are your new friends, the very best friends you’ll ever have. You can resize them, cover them in all manner of switches, wire it all up, and then shrink it down to a tiny, tiny microchip... stick that on your creation, and give it all the logic you’ve just defined.

Remember that insane calculator level, made up of hundreds of pistons? You can fit that entire thing into one microchip.

EDIT2: Just read the EG preview (http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/littlebigplanet-2-first-preview?page=1) in full. Does a better job of explaining some of those mechanics than the video does.

EDIT3: Full Move support will be patched in (http://www.vg247.com/2010/05/10/media-molecule-lbp2-wont-have-full-move-support-at-launch/) (That answers my previous question then).

EDIT4: KBM support incoming (http://ps3.nowgamer.com/news/3117/lbp2-to-support-mouse-and-keyboard). Hopefully they'll go the whole hog and let you import items from PC.

[JP]

The circuit boards sound really interesting! Those combined with the programable physics and direct control open up the creation side of things quite a bit.

I'm so pleased that all the DLC and user created content from the first game is compatible with this. This isn't a brilliant picture but it gives a fair idea of the improvements you get if you download a user level from the first game and play it in this one.
http://www.1up.com/media/03/8/0/9/lg/621.jpg

Hope we get to see some more new stuff at E3.:D

[Tig]

Remember that insane calculator level, made up of hundreds of pistons? You can fit that entire thing into one microchip.


If they managed to make a calculator using bricks and pistons, I dread to think what they'll achieve with this.


How long before we see Linux running in an LBP2 level? :p



Edit: jesus edgar christ, nested circuit boards? This is going to get silly.
Mark Healey says it (http://www.nowgamer.com/features/683/littlebigplanet-2-mark-healey-qa?o=2#listing),


I can see there being a whole subculture of creators that make ridiculous microchips that do horrendous things...

[JP]

There's a few more details in this Alex Evans interview.
GPiN3JMLZhc&fmt

[Richie_uk]

this looks stunning, and the music is gorgeous in the trailer. Does anyone know what song this is ?

[JP]

It's Passion Pit's "Sleepyhead".:)

2HI2l2gstfg

[Uli]

i never could understand the hype around LBP. it's pretty and occasionally cute and funny, but oh so boring.

[crazytaxinext]

It's appeal pretty much entirely hinges on the level editor aspect of the game as (in LBP1) the platformer side of it was dire, it's down to seeing what people can come up with using the materials in the game. With loads of people buying LBP and finding that out, that's why I imagine many won't bother picking 2 up as Level Editors are of limited appeal.

[Number45]

I couldn't disagree with those two posts more. I played it almost exclusively as a platformer (Dabbling occasionally with the create mode) and thoroughly enjoyed it even playing single player, add a second player to the mix (Usually my eldest daughter) and it becomes incredibly entertaining on so many levels.

I didn't get the longevity out of it that the creators did, but I spent a lot more time with it than I have a lot of other full price SP focused games.

[mugetsu]

what really got me interested were the fact that in that interview the gut talks about being able to change the jump physics.............goodbye floaty shite, hello solid mario stylee.

[JP]

I couldn't disagree with those two posts more.

It's the same for me, it was an absolute joy to play, Had a few good laughs with people on here too just slapping them around which should be even better with the new grappling hook thing.

Had a mess around with the level editor and I do admire what the tools they handed over to their community in it can do but I can't ever see myself spending a lot of time in that.

what really got me interested were the fact that in that interview the gut talks about being able to change the jump physics.............goodbye floaty shite, hello solid mario stylee.
That seemed to be a fairly common complaint but it wasn't something I had any issues with myself. It certainly felt different to some other platformers but it never felt wrong to me.

[Darwock]

Me neither, I was gonna start ranting but instead I just shrugged my shoulders and didn't bother - LBP has always been misunderstood and under-appreciated in some quarters.

The fact is the game is still thriving, so perhaps that 'limited appeal' is only limited to people with no imagination :P

[Family Fry]

Well there must be a LOT of PS3 owners with no imagination.

:)
PsC0zIhWNww

:(
SHFLSpo5FTc

45 seconds in says the jumping fails. For me my lack of wanting to create levels did put me off but ultimately the tight physics around jumping killed it for me, presentation of the game was beautifully done though.
LBP 2 will hopefully tighten it all up so it will add more to the creation side for better designed levels.

[Number45]

The criticism that seems to be constantly levelled against LBP is that it's not Mario. If you can accept that fact then you're fine, if not... there's a million Mario games available.

They've suggested that the default physics will be the same but that you'll be able to tweak them if you want. Personally, I'd argue that being able to change the physics will be more detrimental to the game as you potentially need to adjust to a new system with each new level you play.

[Richie_uk]

It's Passion Pit's "Sleepyhead".:)

2HI2l2gstfg

Thanks mate, just downloaded from itunes.....great song.

[JP]

A brief video from Qore.
yo5wciMxOLI&fmt

I've recently deleted my original save and started playing through the first game again and I'm loving it all over again:D. If anybody needs to collect the multi-player items let me know as I'm wanting to do that too.

[JP]

LBP FAQ FTW:

Are the LittleBigPlanet DLC costumes going to be compatible with LBP2?
Yes, any LBP1 costumes purchased on the PlayStation Store will be compatible with LittleBigPlanet 2 - We can't wait to see you what you guys do with the various costumes combined with the new cinematic tools!


I hope this is on a FAQ - are the first LBP and GOTY edition levels going to be included with LBP2?
The wonderfully fun LBP1 story levels will remain unique to its Blu-ray disc, but you'll see familiar elements/tools/items as part of the foundation for LittleBigPlanet 2. And while the community levels will be unique to the GOTY edition - hopefully if you guys vote for us again, you'll see something similar in the future...


Will any of the new costume DLC that will be released after LBP2 is released be compatible with the first game?
LittleBigPlanet 2 has been redesigned with a completely new graphics engine, so costumes and upcoming DLC designed for LittleBigPlanet 2 will not be compatible for LBP1 players.


Will all the costumes/stickers/decoration/DLC we collected in LBP1 be usable in LBP2?
We're working hard to ensure that everything you've collected from LittleBigPlanet can be used in the new game. Certainly anything you've picked up from the PSN Store will be fully present and correct in LittleBigPlanet 2, the only time something might not quite work perfectly is if it has been created by another player using a 'glitched' object of some kind. Even then we're optimistic that all of the existing content you've collected will continue to work.


Any idea when we'll be getting that Sephiroth skin?
Nothing confirmed yet, but don't worry we still have this in our plans...


Whatever happened to the Marvel Comics themed costume pack that was supposed to come out a year or so ago? I REALLY wanted a Wolverine Sackboy and it's quite disheartening that something so cool was announced and shown and then never mentioned again.
We announced the partnership at Comic-Con last year (but no release date). It takes a bit of production time to get everything lined up, but hopefully you'll hear some announcements soon.


Will LBP2 include from launch day all the DLC of LBP1? Including costumes level packs and all that good stuff?
Because of the backwards compatibility for LBP1 DLC, all the costumes on the PlayStation Store will still be available for purchase. Expect to see a ton more content in the next few months, including the eventual LittleBigPlanet 2 DLC.


Will it be in 720p or 1080p?
LittleBigPlanet 2 is getting a completely new graphical overhaul, so stay tuned for a future LittleBigPlanet 2 post, where we'll cover off on more specifics like this.


Sackboy, no matter what costumes he wears still looks like Sackboy in LBP1, seeing the new costumes in LBP2 has this idea been lost?
Some of the new costumes we've shown for LittleBigPlanet 2 are certainly unconventional, but then Sackboy has an eclectic wardrobe taste. At the end of the day however, he's still Sackboy and we'll be sticking close to making him look that way no matter what the costume.


Will Stephen Fry be narrating it again?
Yes, your (and our) favorite narrator will be back for LittleBigPlanet 2.


Will this game have the 50 levels single player like the first game or is this just a big create kit?
LittleBigPlanet 2 is a whole new game, so just like the original you get a full storyline for Sackboy to play thru. Add to that the endless possibilities of the evolved Create and Share modes, where you'll see completely different gameplay experiences in the community levels.


Can I electrify/set things on fire using switches and logic? What has happened to emitters in LBP2? Are they much easier to use? Has dissolve material changed? How many layers will there be and what different types?
Expect some lots more details about CREATE mode at this year's E3.


I heard of custom Voice Acting. Confirm or Deny.
Confirm!


Does Sackbot have to look like a robot or can I change his form to any creature?
Nope, Sackbots are totally customizable, from their reactions to their clothing/skins.


Just to double check, we'll be able to have evil Sackboys as bad guys?
There's no such thing as an evil Sackboy - just some mischievious ones...Sackbots, on the other hand, can have a mind of their own.


Can you program Sackbots to activate swithces? *Example* giving them jobs on a pirate ship.
Stay tuned, we have a specific "Sackbots" feature planned in an upcoming LittleBigPlanet 2 post - we just hope you provide your Pirate Sackbots the proper minimum wages :)


I just saw the LBP2 box art pop up on Twitter...Why didn't you guys post it here?
Glad you noticed, but don't get too attached to that piece of art - It's something we put together from the artwork created for an exclusive EDGE Magazine cover article. And while we love it, its definitely NOT final box art.


Are you guys going to be at E3? I hope so, every gamer in the world needs to see LBP2!
Of course we'll be at E3, the bigger question is...will you?


Will there be a Sackboy costume contest again?
I sure hope so, we had so many great entries last time. And now that we have more fans and more people familiar with what can be done, we can't imagine how creative you guys can get. Stay tuned.


Will there be any pre-order goodies?
Yup. Expect announcements later down the line. We have to make sure all the "i"s are dotted and "t"s are crossed.


What is the name of the song on the video. I can't get it out of my mind!
The song "Sleepyhead" is from the group Passion Pit. And we're glad you all like it!

LBP BOX JPG, BOO BOO BEE DOO:
http://playstationlifestyle.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/little-big-planet-2-boxart.jpg

[Number45]

TL;DR. :hmm:

Love that box though.


# I just saw the LBP2 box art pop up on Twitter...Why didn't you guys post it here?
# Glad you noticed, but don't get too attached to that piece of art - It's something we put together from the artwork created for an exclusive EDGE Magazine cover article. And while we love it, its definitely NOT final box art.

:cry:

[Number45]

http://www.giantbomb.com/news/littlebigplanet-2s-creation-tools-are-completely-ridiculous/2198/


I can tell you that sorting, searching, and downloading user-created stuff is going to get a lot faster and easier both in the game and on a new website called LBP.me which will be launching with the game (the latter will give you a social feed of your friends' creations and even let you queue up downloads that will begin automatically when you boot up the game later).

I know it's been mentioned before, but that's the best bit of news. If they get that bit right and use it in other Play Create Share titles they could really take off. :)

[Malc]

Listening to today's Bombcast and they have said that the physics have been tweaked slightly so the jumping and movement is a lot more precise now that before, which should please a lot of the critics of the first LBP.

They also said that the types of clothes you wear will effect your sackboy's control. For instance, if you wear a large, heavy tin hat, sackboy will be heavier when moving around, whereas if you wear a light piece of clothing like just a shirt, you will be able to jump higher than wearing the tin hat etc.

[Number45]

I hope they make that last bit clear - can you imagine the frustration? :D

[Number45]

http://www.tarsier.se/index2.php?pageid=105

Tarsier have signed up to deliver exclusive extra content for LBP2, as well as another unannounced project. Tarsier are the studio behind the AMAZING looking (But unreleased) City of Metronome, I'm hoping that becomes the unannounced project. :D

[JP]

Well you may get your wish if the little orange box on the official City of Metronome (http://www.tarsier.se/metronome/) website is up to date.:)

[Number45]

I do hope so. Even if it's not the unannounced project, I hope it sees the light of day. In fact, I think we have a thread for that game. *searches*

[Number45]

Ugh, ready for the BOHICA pre-order incentives?

http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/07/23/littlebigplanet-2-updates-official-date-and-retail-goodness/

Having said that:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4120/4821119968_0fc9c1de32_m.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4093/4821120004_9dd147000d_m.jpg

<3

More DLC rape-age incoming. :(

[Number45]

http://www.gametrailers.com/remote_wrap.php?mid=702047

That looks like great fun. Plenty of pinball/Sonic style potential there. :D

[Tig]

http://www.gametrailers.com/remote_wrap.php?mid=702555


Creatinator! Power gloves! :w00t: Giant steampunk chicken!



Game of the forever confirmed...

[merf]

watching this I can't deny that it looks and sounds totally joyous, the thing that I think is lacking is that this appears like the first game and somehow that joyous feeling doesn't translate to the gameplay for me.

its such a hard thing to define but Mario bounces and hops arounds his levels and that somehow translates thru the pad and you feel it.

[Tig]

watching this I can't deny that it looks and sounds totally joyous, the thing that I think is lacking is that this appears like the first game and somehow that joyous feeling doesn't translate to the gameplay for me.

its such a hard thing to define but Mario bounces and hops arounds his levels and that somehow translates thru the pad and you feel it.

I can understand this.
I believe it's a consequence of the whole game being built within a single universal physics engine (no Nintendo game does this afaik).... Necessary for create mode to function without glitching up, but sadly putting a dampner on character movement.



It looks like the grappling arm goes a good distance towards remedying it though. It looks like it adds the dynamism and speed which was largely missing from the first game, and it appears so versatile I'd happily play a whole game based around it. :lol:



And in any case, now that players can make their own playable characters with custom handling, with specific add-ons for fine tuning inertia and momentum, complaints about the controls will be largely moot. It'll be only a matter of time before someone comes up with a good Mario control facsimile.
And by matter of time, I mean about 2 days after release. :happy:

[JP]

GamesCom Story Trailer (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/08/17/littlebigplanet-2-new-trailer-and-fan-meetup-at-gamescom/)

[Tig]

First sightings of a music editor in that trailer. :)


http://img576.imageshack.us/img576/6976/music1k.jpg
http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/7083/music2b.jpg



You could already recreate one of LBP's musical levels within a single microchip in LBP2.

I mean.... this wasn't even strictly necessary

[JP]

It seems the music generator does a lot more than just generating music.


I played a LittleBigPlanet 2 basketball game with Media Molecule co-founder Alex Evans today, then watched someone else control multiple Sackbots in a puzzle game. Both were very different from LittleBigPlanet's platforming sections. Neither was as cool as the racing game Evans demonstrated.

The racing game itself, which saw a Sackboy ride on a fuzzy caterpillar-like beast, wasn't particularly spectacular looking. Sackboy simply had to avoid fiery obstacles and roadblocks. It was how that racing game was built, using LittleBigPlanet 2's new music sequencer and synth tool, that was so unexpected.

Yes, someone made a song that turned into a race track. And it turns out that music sequencing in LittleBigPlanet 2 will enable creators to do much more than that.

For the purposes of building a race track, the sequencer tool makes a lot of sense. The top-down racetrack consisted of a starting point connected to the rest of the level, then a bunch of track sections that were built further away, floating in empty space. Those racetrack sections were essentially samples, speaking in music sequencer terms. As the timeline on the music sequencer moved forward, those racetrack samples transitioned from one to the next, making a complete, playable course.

Evans showed us the racetrack's timeline, which looked like note chart of increasing and decreasing track section difficulties. Anyone who's ever used a sequencer or timeline in, say FruityLoops, GarageBand, Flash or Adobe Premiere, should feel comfortable with using a tool like this to create levels, cinematics or racetracks. That tool, Evans says, has helped LittleBigPlanet level designers create much faster than the methods used in the original game, a more efficient replacement for switches and levers.

Of course, LittleBigPlanet 2's sequencer can be used for its intended purpose: to make songs. Evans accessed the sequencer from a Sackboy's pop-it menu and threw together a quick tune comprised of honkytonk piano, beatbox kicks and snares. It was "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" with some erratic beatboxing layered on top.

Evans then added an effect to a block, making it switch from a safe wooden material to a dangerous molten brick, then back again. All he had to do was tie that danger cue to the sequencer timeline, further illustrating how powerful that tool can be in creating levels.

[Tig]

I guessed it would be a couple of months before someone made a working CPU in LBP2.


looks like I'm still underestimating this game....
:O (http://www.mediamolecule.com/blog/article/emails_from_the_molecule_how_powerful_is_lbp_elect ronics)

[JP]

Just found this GameSpot series of videos.

Alex Evans Interview
D_CVraA9qLQ&hd


Spaceship Demo
uQXMSYNC3DA&hd

The Creatinator Demo
uLXTMTHR6EI&hd

Grapple Hook Demo
80eE741bg5E&hd

The Sequencer Demo
zvVWTMDwDYo&hd

The tools are looking to be ridiculously powerful and it's difficult to imagine what some people will be able to create with it.

[Tig]

http://www.gametrailers.com/video/gc-10-littlebigplanet-2/703278

unicycle gravity crazyness

[Number45]

Beta invites are on their way out, just got mine. :)

[Myth]

Got mine too!

[Tig]

Can somebody hammer this F5 button for me while I go and have dinner?


ta.

[Malc]

Where do you sign up for beta invites? Or is it for PSN Plus subscribers?

[Tig]

Where do you sign up for beta invites? Or is it for PSN Plus subscribers?

It's neither.
They've cunningly compiled a list of PSN accounts based on "activity" in LBP. Now they're sending invites to those people. There were no signups!


http://www.littlebigland.com/lbp-2-beta-invites-will-be-send-out-this-week/




If you can log in to this forum (http://community.eu.playstation.com/t5/PRIVATE-LBP-2-Beta/Welcome-to-the-LittleBigPlanet-2-Closed-Beta-READ-ME/td-p/11477599) and are permitted to view it, you should be getting an invite.

(Although by default your PSN account settings won't allow Sony to send you emails - you'll need to change that)

[ShadowDancer]

If anyone gets a spare Beta Key for LBP..I will bite your right arm for it.

As that isn't too appealing, I'll give you a nice hug and a bottle of lager!

:)

[doodledude]

Can't say I've played it in the last few months (although I do like to put the disk in every few months and download the latest 12 patches or so!), but I got an invite, although I am down as a PS3 beta tester so I get invites for quite a few games.

[Number45]

It's neither.
They've cunningly compiled a list of PSN accounts based on "activity" in LBP. Now they're sending invites to those people. There were no signups!


http://www.littlebigland.com/lbp-2-beta-invites-will-be-send-out-this-week/




If you can log in to this forum (http://community.eu.playstation.com/t5/PRIVATE-LBP-2-Beta/Welcome-to-the-LittleBigPlanet-2-Closed-Beta-READ-ME/td-p/11477599) and are permitted to view it, you should be getting an invite.

(Although by default your PSN account settings won't allow Sony to send you emails - you'll need to change that)
I'm far from an active member, but I did get in for one of the original game betas which they've extended to membership for this.

2GB download, hopefully I'll get a chance to mess around over the weekend. :)

[Tig]

A truckload of new videos of this have just come out, as the beta NDA has been lifted. :)

http://www.littlebigland.com/lbp-2-beta-gameplay-videos/

[JP]

It's good to know they're finally showing stuff, there was some really good stuff available but I'd not seen any of these before.:D
lN3emgfA9P0

zwWSEdGGVTQ

l-U5TQa8QY4&

There's so much potential on the creation side of things, I'm still shocked by some of the stuff people were able to create in the first one but this seems so much more powerful.

[Tig]

Somebody remade Flow in the LBP2 beta. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Sp8fxizw28&hd=1) Skip to halfway for audiovisual loveliness.




Could anyone tell it apart from the original? :ph34r:
It even controls using the Sixaxis...




Edit: and in other news, LBP2 has been delayed until January. (http://www.littlebigplanet.com/en-gb/news/article/important_news_regarding_the_release_date_of_littl ebigplanet_2/) :(
I'm actually slightly relieved... it will give me a few months to finish up all the other things I was planning to do in my lifetime.

[MisterBubbles]

Only things is, are the devs and publishers going to be asking about copyright infringement?
But all the videos ive seen in beta have been jaw dropping.

[Malc]

If Sony have some rights to Flow (it's a PSN exclusive right?) then I'm sure the developers wont mind, providing users don't recreate the whole game like for like.

[MisterBubbles]

But what about geometry wars and such Sony own nothing of Bizzare.

[crazytaxinext]

http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=266112

Delayed until January 2011.

Personally, considering LBP1 struggled at launch this is a very smart move on Media Molecule and Sony's part. Much better than launching in the wake of Black Ops and GT5. I still think the game will struggle as it's only going to appeal to a niche core 2nd time around but having most of a month to itself should give it room to breathe.

[Malc]

But what about geometry wars and such Sony own nothing of Bizzare.

Yes, there would be a problem there.

However, somehow Sony seem to get away with a lot of different copyright laws, just take a look at all the famous characters or Mario Kart levels that have been remade in Mod Nation Racers, it's copy right infringement hell (or heaven).

I know that Sony were asked to remove any mario levels in LBP1, but they still crop up quite often. Like I said, as long as the game isn't recreated from begining to end, then I guess developers could look at it as free advertising. As I can bet that the Geometry Wars game in LBP2 is nowhere near as good or precise as the real thing.

[JP]

Digital Foundry (http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-lbp2-engine-face-off) have published an article comparing the differences between the LBP & LBP 2 Beta engine and show what happens when you play levels created for the first game in the second,

[Number45]

The full article (http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-vs-littlebigplanet2-article?page=1) is up now. :bow:

[JP]

Not really sure what MOVE will add to a game like this but it is optional.

With the main game there will be an extra game - possibly on another disc, maybe on the same disk - that will contain 10-ish levels that demonstrate how Move could work with LittleBigPlanet 2

And shortly after release we'll do a full DLC pack that's purely Move, and we'll give away the free controls so people can make their own Move levels as well.

A few more levels from the recent beta, I have no idea how most of this was done as so much just wasn't available in the beta.

dpU0lqOYKOk

iKVOHvQKX_4

bOu_H5EsWt0

x2V-AMDoF9Y

GR714531STk

CrdbnII7944

O0yujlcrIYk

9my1iLdXB_4

9mdVpPcpLbk

[ShadowDancer]

Nice work JP - Thank you :)

[JP]

No problem, I didn't really do anything. I saw one of the videos somewhere else and thought I'd have a look to see what else had been created.

I loved the things that were created in that Media Molecule didn't think would be possible and this gives people so many more options to be creative.

I know this is very early but come on, look at it!!
TfdOfklL9v4&hd

AZaIHAfHSoc&hd

There's just so much stuff out already which although a little rough they do show a lot of promise of what will be possible with the full tool set.
bV7Gr7jaF3o

Q81-tvlTCZQ

r-LTD7nMBEg

IYESq8HtmhI

uj7QeNGc82s

I'd really like to see Sony allow people/companies to produce and sell charge for levels. In a way, a bit like XBLA's Indie Games.

If they could encourage games companies to put some serious time into producing games due to them being allowed to sell them we could end up with some complete games being available.

Really can't see that happening though.

[Jebus]

Disappointing to see that the gameplay has the exact same feel to it at the moment, but my word the level design has been ratcheted up a notch or 10! These guys know how to make platform game levels!

The grappling hook is fun too! But it still feel the same to control imho.

[Number45]

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2010-10-05-ps3-connectivity-forced-lbp2-delay

Sounds like it would have needed a patch early on, which would have affected people that don't have their PS3 connected. Why you'd play LPB without internet connectivity to the PS3 is beyond me.

[Tig]

I met some of the developers of this at Eurogamer on saturday. very nice folks as you'd expect. :)




One of the community creators (rtm223) had made an amazing sackbot on one of the demo machines. It was controllable, and had a Samus-style exponential sprint ability, a wall-jump move, and a flaming charge attack reminiscent of M.Bison's "psycho crusher".



However, the coolest thing was its meteoric ground-pound move, which caused explosions and sent shockwaves along the floor. :ph34r:

I really cannot wait to see what people have done with this after it's been out a couple of months.





Disappointing to see that the gameplay has the exact same feel to it at the moment, but my word the level design has been ratcheted up a notch or 10!

they needed to keep the handling the same as before so that the levels already published by players would remain playable.


athough, given that you can make the game behave any way you like now (see above), I don't think this'll be a terminal issue...

[JP]

uj7QeNGc82s
Yep, that looked quite interesting until I saw this video!:w00t:
QSF5q_5ee18

As interesting as these videos can be I really don't think that remaking games will be it's strength as it's pretty much always going to fall short of the originals. I do think that these videos are a good indication of what is possible with the technology though.

[Number45]

4CedmqliK4g

<3

[JP]

An hour long video of their talk at this year's EuroGamer Expo (http://www.eurogamer.net/videos/eg-expo-littlebigplanet-2-dev-session). Warning: Contains zombie pandas, Stephen Fry & vomit cheese!

[JP]

The latest LBP 2 feature video, this time it's Sackbots.
http://www.viddler.com/player/d378607b

A few more videos from the beta including a digital learning competition (http://www.dmlcompetition.net/).
xOz1Ccm_Jhc

Well, it's better than than the other Final Fantasy films!
FWcOQFhRcoE

Not prefect but it's the first time I've seen it done and I love the music they've composed.
YdeXPX9z_2U

ZvuXJychW50

[Tig]

Insane.

http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/littlebigplanet-2-beta-takes-to-the-skies/

[JP]

Another LBP 2 feature trailer.
http://www.viddler.com/player/4b0818f5

[Number45]

http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2010/11/09/littlebigplanet-2-collectors-edition/

CE announced. Nothing particularly interesting, although they do tease pre-order bonuses. Yay. :rolleyes:

Standard Box
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4036/5158088591_2eb80b143d.jpg

LE Box (Labels are on a transparent sleeve)
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1202/5158088363_d6ee06e7eb.jpg
(Some quality PS work there!)


The LittleBigPlanet 2 Limited Collector’s Edition comes wrapped in striking SteelBook packaging. The pic above shows the full package – the various logos are on a transparent outer sleeve, which slides off to leave you with a clean and iconic image of Sackboy’s iconic zip.

It’s also packed with some cool exclusive DLC content – in addition to five PSN avatars, there are seven brand new Sackboy costumes that should serve as perfect inspiration for your new creations:

Disney / Pixar’s Toy Story 3′s “Alien” Costume
Disney’s TRON: Legacy “Clu” Costume
The Muppets’ “The Great Gonzo” Costume
Even More Animals’ “Crocodile” Costume
Even More Animals’ “Vulture” Costume
Even More Animals’ “Cobra” Costume
Even More Animals’ “Mandrill” Costume
The LittleBigPlanet 2 Collector’s Edition will be available in different ways across Europe and the other PAL countries, with all kinds of different additional goodies on offer, so keep your eyes open for more details about release plans in your country.

And speaking of additional goodies – there are four other exclusive costumes for you to look out for: iconic PlayStation heroes Jak, Daxter, Ratchet and Clank. These will be available as pre-order bonuses and, again, the exact way that you can get your hands on them will vary by country.

That’s it for now – but it just scratches the surface of the cool stuff we’re getting ready to share with you soon…

[Number45]

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2010-11-11-what-is-sackboys-prehistoric-moves

Some Move related extras coming by the look of it, from the guys behind Tumble and Start the Party. :)

[Number45]

nMYjtWjCNYg

[JP]

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2010-11-11-what-is-sackboys-prehistoric-moves

Some Move related extras coming by the look of it, from the guys behind Tumble and Start the Party. :)
Full details are up now on the PlayStation Blog (http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2010/11/18/littlebigplanet-2-demo-beta-trial-expansion-and-sackboys-prehistoric-moves/) and I like the sound of it.:D

There's a lot of info there but this is the important stuff...

Early December – A new batch of PlayStation Plus subscribers are invited into the LittleBigPlanet 2 beta trial.
8th December – PlayStation Plus subscribers and a big bunch of LBP fans get Sackboy’s Prehistoric Moves for free.
15th December – Sackboy’s Prehistoric Moves goes on-sale for €5.99 on PlayStation Store.
22 December – Everyone get their hands on the LittleBigPlanet 2 demo.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v648/johnmorrisparry/NTSC-uk/5187079868_6451b718b5.jpg

[JP]

:D
R02ebEACN_0&hd

[Richie_uk]

:D
R02ebEACN_0&hd

thats an awesome trailer :-) :thumb:

[Malc]

I take it that is a fan made trailer right?

[Number45]

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2010-11-23-if-trailers-told-the-truth-article

[Number45]

http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2010/11/25/new-littlebigplanet-2-featurette-the-controlinator/

This looks so good. I really hope the story levels do some funky stuff with all of the new tools to get the creative community juices flowing.

[crazytaxinext]

I'm gonna give the demo next month a fair shot as it's been a while since I played LBP, but in the previews the new stuff does sound very much only of relevance to the smaller section of gamers who bothered designing proper levels. I'm expecting this to be the first underperformer of 2011 sales wise, can't imagine a huge number of standard players will be lured back again.

[Number45]

http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=277793


The true story of a builder whose near death experience led to a job making LBP2
Lovely story. MM are awesome. <3

[Number45]

34S7h0k5oIY

A little nauseating, but rather good. :D

[ShadowDancer]

I thought the 1st had scope, this is just stupid. (As in, amazingly brilliant)

[crazytaxinext]

This made me chuckle

FH9IW83Wxl4

[steve morris]

That. Is. Awesome.

[Tig]

anyone who isn't yet enthused about this game should be after reading this preview:

http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/113/1138954p1.html



Also, I'm reposting this in case anyone missed it before. From the same fellow who did the Wolfenstein 3D remake:

TfxVug-vkaw

[JP]

a22yJPOFiik&hd

Rp34v3zOrLo&hd

I didn't realise this was only a month away.

[djjimbob]

The LittleBig question is: Will it control like a sack of sh!t, just like LBP1?

[JP]

Luckily, you'll still be thinking it controls like a sack of sh!t like LBP1.

[Ouenben]

LBP's controls were a bit flakey but by no means 'controlled like a sack of shit' once you got used to it, making precise platforming jumps was no problem if not easier than Mario games because of the floatyness of it all.

[Tig]

there's an interview somewhere which describes how LBP2 can be made to feel like Mario by turning the gravity up to 400&#37; and increasing sackboy's jump force.
It makes the game zip around much faster. Not that djjimbob will care about this I suspect.



I think the problem people actually had with LBP's controls is the inherited velocity on sackboy. Unlike Mario, sackboy inherits 100% of the velocity of the surface he's standing on.
This is actually a pretty interesting trait - it's very different to most platformers, and takes a good deal of skill to master.
Although I suspect many people simply didn't understand it.

[JP]

Isn't it right that the controls aren't customisable in the main game though? I could be wrong but that's what I thought it was. It seems a little silly to me to allow people to change the control physics when the game is designed around them.

The controls seem to be an ongoing discussion as they are unlike the controls in other games. The most common complaint seems to be that they don't allow people to play this game the same way they play the various Mario games.

They're very different games though and control very differently although I think both had the correct control model for the game they were in.

Although they're nice to see I think the fact that people seem to create endless Mario & Sonic levels in the first game really emphasise how wrong these controls are for those types of games. I suppose now that people have the option to customise the physics it should allow for much better games of that type.

[Tig]

yeah, I mean the physics and controls are customisable in Create mode only.
Which means we will see a lot of community levels which control nothing like LBP.

[Malc]

Didn't LBP1 also suffer with input lag similar to Killzone 2? If so, there is a good chance they've tightened up the feel a bit as well as giving custom controls for the weightiness of user made levels, so hopefully we can expect some improvement over the first game.

[Tig]

www.lbp.me has gone live!

Go there to find all the best levels from LBP/LBP2, and queue them up to play instantly as soon as you next load the game.


finally, the good levels won't be hidden behind the crappy in-game search.





edit: I just found my old LBP levels! :w00t:
Apparently there are people still playing them :thumb:

http://lbp.me/v/p8t7hn
http://lbp.me/v/qeyr-7

[Number45]

Review in the upcoming OPM, 10/10.

http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=281038

[Family Fry]

What did OPM score the original?

[Number45]

I think it was 9/10. They're actually not too bad with their reviews of big first party stuff as a rule. :)

EDIT: Actually it seems it was 10/10. My bad.

[jim g]

USA demo is up - 2.1GB downloading now!

[crazytaxinext]

ebjDRw51Qyg

AWE.SOME

[Fat_Bob]

Thanks incredible. Wow can't wait to see what people do with the sequel.

[JP]

zQxngCm5BtU

[JP]

Only a couple of weeks to go now!:D

The online reviews are starting to appear, I've only read the Eurogamer (9/10). IGN (9/10) and C&VG (9.4/10) reviews so far but they all seem very positive about the game.

[crazytaxinext]

Just read IGN's review and it seems to be a comprehensive expansion of the toolset for existing fans who stuck with the original who should be able to get a lot more out of the level maker now. Other than that though, and after the demo, it still seems pretty redundant for everyone else. Still, LBP is an industry media darling and it'll be heard about all through 2011 till the next GOTY lists where it'll be wrongly classed as one of the best platformers ever :D

[jim g]

Just read IGN's review and it seems to be a comprehensive expansion of the toolset for existing fans who stuck with the original who should be able to get a lot more out of the level maker now. Other than that though, and after the demo, it still seems pretty redundant for everyone else. Still, LBP is an industry media darling and it'll be heard about all through 2011 till the next GOTY lists where it'll be wrongly classed as one of the best platformers ever :D

perfect summary sir!

For me, LBP is a boring platformer, hiding behind cuteness.All the tools etc. don't appeal to me, but for those that ilove that sort of thing, LBP2 could be their heaven

[iloveannie]

Too complex for me. Please come back Pilotwings :(

[Tig]

Edge and Eurogamer reviews:

http://www.next-gen.biz/features/littlebigplanet-2-review
http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-01-04-littlebigplanet-2-review



It missed out on the big 10/10 from Edge this time.

I think the true scale of the advancement from LBP to LBP2 will only become apparent a couple of weeks after launch, when the community has pushed the tools into mad territory.

[iloveannie]

For those who are happy to embrace it, though, LBP2 represents a dazzling new opportunity for creating deep, diverse and ingenious play.

Taken from the Edge review. This is all very nice but how about LBP2 and LBP2 Lite? I enjoyed the first game but never made any levels. I was happy playing them but I don't have the time (inclination) to invest in creating things.

My question I guess is, "Have they alienated a number of players by giving such emphasis to the creativity of LBP and as such will they lose sales?"

One could argue that from a success standpoint a game is judged by how quickly it appears in the Zavvi Mega Monday Sale (£16.99) or by how rapidly and to what extent second hand copies appear on the shelves of Gamestation.

[crazytaxinext]

This is going to likely be reliant on having a long term tail sales wise, I think they were wise to delay it after LBP1 struggled at launch in the Xmas period though releasing against DC Universe Online, Mass Effect 2 and Dead Space 2 is still a tough spot for the game. They won't do it but I think LBP2 would have benefitted from launch simultaneously for purchase on the PSN Store for £30

[eastyy]

never played it before might get this however one thing i have to ask is

is this and the previous game just a set of tools to make a game .I remember years ago all these game creators came out and the games that could be made were not that great

what i mean really is can the games made be as good as professionally made stuff

see i dont really have any desire to make anything i am just hoping the core experience (particulary the ready made stuff on disc) is good enough

[Phar]

never played it before might get this however one thing i have to ask is

is this and the previous game just a set of tools to make a game .I remember years ago all these game creators came out and the games that could be made were not that great

what i mean really is can the games made be as good as professionally made stuff

LBP does have a single player game and story like any standard platformer, the creating part and levels are entirely separate, some of the user created stuff is excellent though, and can be just as good as any of the pro created ones if not better.

[Tig]

never played it before might get this however one thing i have to ask is

is this and the previous game just a set of tools to make a game .I remember years ago all these game creators came out and the games that could be made were not that great

what i mean really is can the games made be as good as professionally made stuff



For an indication of how good the user-made content can be, take a look at the Story Mode levels which come on the disc, or any of the trailers for the game. All of that stuff was made using the on-disc tools.




This is all very nice but how about LBP2 and LBP2 Lite? I enjoyed the first game but never made any levels. I was happy playing them but I don't have the time (inclination) to invest in creating things.

My question I guess is, "Have they alienated a number of players by giving such emphasis to the creativity of LBP and as such will they lose sales?"


From my perspective, it looks like they've chosen the bold route of sticking to their guns.


"Better creation tools" is not a great back-of-the-box feature.
However, I believe the gamble will pay off... The powerful new tools are going to ensure that the best creators are making amazing stuff, which will increase the value of the game for everyone.
You don't have to be interested in creation to benefit from a continual stream of cool free stuff.



As for LBP2 having trouble at retail... Yeah, it does seem to be a gloriously anti-commercial project, in more ways than one. That's part of what makes the series so delightful :D

[Tig]

jT9B_Nm88po

:wub:

I think all of this stuff was created by players in the beta...

[Malc]

I am truly amazed at just how diverse those games are within LBP2. They have made a better tool set for creators which has also made a better experience for people like me who will just play other people's levels.

It's even apparent from MM's levels in the demo where I felt like I was doing so much more than just platforming. more importantly, it actually felt fun.

[yesteryeargames]

any good pre order deals about or free goodies ? cant find it cheaper than &#163;38

[Darwock]

...and what's the release date anyway?

[Wools]

You can already buy it now at Play.com. :)

[SuperBeatBoy]

...and what's the release date anyway?

Friday! :thumb:

[Darwock]

Is that the global release? Gonna have to take a detour on my way home from work (soundtrack amendments notwithstanding)

[JP]

You might not be able to buy it in Japan yet due to Japan getting it later than other places.

18th January - USA
19th January - Mainland Europe
20th January - Australia/New Zealand
21st January - UK/Ireland
10th February - Japan/Hong Kong

It's not that long to wait though and I suppose you could import it if you needed to but remember that DLC is region locked so if you import you'll need to download it from here you'll also need to also download it from the SCEE Store.

Remember that DLC is transferable from the first game into this one so you're probably better off buying from the same region if you have DLC already.

[Darwock]

Thanks John, yeah that's why I'm going with Japanese again. Sad to have to wait though, it was actually earlier here last time.

[merf]

Got mine thru from GAME, not going to start a first play as found it all quite irritating and somebody with love for it should have the honour.

Platforming still feels far too floaty, they've not fixed the poxy jumping in and out of the fields of 3d issue and I just want Stephen fry to shut up.

Seems to take an age to actually play a level after putting the disc in ( a general irk or mine, just let me bloody play it, I've not got time to sit thru half an hour of crap)

[Darwock]

The only question I have is why did you even buy it? If you didn't like the first one it was obvious you wouldn't like this.

[merf]

The only question I have is why did you even buy it? If you didn't like the first one it was obvious you wouldn't like this.
its more complicated than that for me with this, I don't actually think its a very good game, standing in front a hole behind you that you are meant to drop down but up+jump doesn't make sackboy hop thru it likes he's meant to is so sloppy and ruins the nice bits that go before.

that said I kind of see this as a tech platform and it reminds me of the days I used to buy team 17 Amiga public domain discs by swedish nutters, I like flipping thru loads of levels online, seeing what people do and just fiddling about with it.

its not a good platformer, I can't stephen fry in 'Liptons tea advert trying to be cute' mode but I will still get quite a few hours of interest from it.

its an odd one.

[crazytaxinext]

It still surprises me that for such a network focused game, like LBP1 and Modnation Racers, Sony has missed the biggest trick of releasing it on Day 1 on the PSN network at a slightly discounted price. It might not be discounted but even EA is better at doing PSN releases than Sony

[Number45]

EA games usually cost FULL RRP on PSN. Nobody in their right mind is going to do that. Even slightly discounted from RRP will come in above boxed online prices.

[crazytaxinext]

I reckon if they'd taken the plunge of marking it at £29.99 they could have done a decent turn on it with impulse buying and the heavy promotion through the service. It could also feature quite prominantly there for a while too unlike retail where it's likely to get bumped quickly to make room for stuff like Dead Space 2 etc.

[Herbalizer]

Strange lack of buzz and hype for this. I had no idea it was even out, the forums are normally full of impressions from players.
:hmm:

[Tig]

Strange lack of buzz and hype for this.
:hmm:

on this board, yeah.
It seems there's no shortage of buzz worldwide though:

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-01-21-littlebigplanet-2-trounces-lbp-records
http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/32564/Saling_The_World_LittleBigPlanet_2_Heads_Worldwide _Charts




also, check out this map (http://littlebigmap.littlebigplanet.com/map.php?lang=en&skip_intro=off) to see everything LBP-related which is going on in the entire world. :D

[crazytaxinext]

I'd be curious to see figures, given the time of year and the date the chart was compiled its success is very vague considering it's only up against a port and older releases. Hopefully we'll get raw figures soon and get to see how much transferance there is with the fanbase.

[Matt]

I can't bring myself to buy it ATM. You all know my fondness of the original, but right now there are many things conspiring against me that make buying immediately a waste - lack of time, other things I want to buy (not gaming related), lack of time, and mainly lack of time.

[hush]

I bought it about 2 hours a go and it's still got the magic for me just need to re-download my junk from LBP to LBP2 rock on, ok i am going to try and write a first play thread

[Tig]

I don't actually think its a very good game, standing in front a hole behind you that you are meant to drop down but up+jump doesn't make sackboy hop thru it likes he's meant to is so sloppy and ruins the nice bits that go before.


eh? :hmm:


That bit of the training level was supposed to teach you how to change layers using the grappling hook.

Up+jump doesn't make Sackboy fall behind platforms, because that would be awful. You'd keep dropping down the back of the level by accident.




Really, if you invest the time to learn how to play it properly, this game is great fun and the controls are very consistent.

Although I do wonder whether platformers have become such a formalized genre that they're no longer allowed to have a learning curve...

[Darwock]

Interesting to see that the regional version of the game is included in the title when people are playing it on PSN. Tig and a couple of others show as playing Littlebigplanet 2 (UK).

I wonder why? Every region should be able to connect to the others, right?

[merf]

replying to Tig and talk of the training level, its not really what I'm referring to, you get the situation a lot in levels where you are standing up on a platform and need to go back into the screen to drop thru a gap, the game engine gets confused and refuses to let you go back (wither up or up and jump if you wish to do it jumping), similar thing occues when there are bubbles in the furthest layer back and you can't get where you want to be (even on a flat level).

seems you have to move the screen on a bit and come back and it kind of resets its internal bearings.

played a bit more last night and sticking by my initial feelings, for anybody who had gripes with the original (at a fundamental gameplay level not with the tools) I can't see anything fixed to allay those feelings.

[Darwock]

If it's like the original then you pick up bubbles regardless of whether they are in the same plane as you or not.

[Salsa Party Animal]

So what the different as I haven't been monitoring this game. Was shocked to see it is coming out soon.

[Tig]

fair enough really. I agree that for such a (supposedly) knockabout game, the controls can be very finicky- you really need to be aware of Sackboy's speed and his position in the layers at all times.


I'm currently trying to master the grappling hook, but I'm finding the controls to be needlessly tricky due to the fact that "swing" and "reel in/out" are both mapped to the same thumbstick. :s Hopefully that will get patched to make it more manageable.






So what the different as I haven't been monitoring this game.


In a nutshell: the base platforming gameplay is largely unchanged. However, the story levels are vastly superior, with more gameplay variety and a proper (silly) story to go with it.



However, the real improvements are in the tools and online features. The creation tools are now powerful enough to make actual games, of almost any genre and any size. (Although gameplay is mostly limited to two dimensions.) Sackboy and his floaty jump are now an entirely optional component of user-made levels.

This dovetails with the hugely improved online system, which means that the finest community stuff is easy to find, and won't get lost under piles of crap like in LBP1.



By way of example - the first user-made level I tried was a very pretty Super Stardust HD clone. It had its own title screen, options menus, online leaderboards etc.
That was there on UK's day one. I'm looking forward to seeing what appears online in a month or two.

[yesteryeargames]

ive just started the tutorials im quite new to the create modes, i want to know is there a seperate mode to make the retro style games, ive seen pong clones, micro machine clones all sorts are they made the same way as the platforming levels ?

[Tig]

ive just started the tutorials im quite new to the create modes, i want to know is there a seperate mode to make the retro style games, ive seen pong clones, micro machine clones all sorts are they made the same way as the platforming levels ?

yep, it's all in the same editor.


You'll want to investigate the Controlinator and Mover tools to make something like micro machines...

[Ouenben]

Can't wait to bust into the creator but I feel I'd be better to go through most of the story first so I have more materials/stickers to use. Not looking forward to redoing all the tutorials for each tool though :(

[FurryGreenMonster]

Not looking forward to redoing all the tutorials for each tool though :(

You can just run to the end when the video starts and the items and exit will drop. You don't actually have to copy the tutorials if you don't want to, I just stood and watched the videos for most of them.

[Darwock]

How come there is still no first play thread???

Anyway I wanted to ask about the trophies - have they ditched the ones for getting so-and-so number of hearts on your levels? I really hope so because while it did give me motivation to try and make something decent, looking at the big picture it just caused the community space to fill up with "hart me and I hart u" type things.

[hush]

i will check that for you when i get in tonight

[SuperBeatBoy]

How come there is still no first play thread???

Anyway I wanted to ask about the trophies - have they ditched the ones for getting so-and-so number of hearts on your levels? I really hope so because while it did give me motivation to try and make something decent, looking at the big picture it just caused the community space to fill up with "hart me and I hart u" type things.

No they haven't! The cool levels list constantly contains those kinds of levels unfortunatly. :(

[Tig]

Anyway I wanted to ask about the trophies - have they ditched the ones for getting so-and-so number of hearts on your levels? I really hope so because while it did give me motivation to try and make something decent, looking at the big picture it just caused the community space to fill up with "hart me and I hart u" type things.

agreed, those trophies really messed up the first game.


I think they've removed the trophies which reward hearts and plays- but unfortunately they added another in-game achievement system (Pins) which does reward that stuff. So there's still some motivation for spammers.

[InvisibleKid]

Just in case anyone was kicking themselves like me and wishing they'd bought the Collector's Edition. GAME has it back in stock.

[JP]

Just seen this is which is the first game copy that's impressed me.
1gOx2U0tW-Q

[Tig]

This one is pretty impressive too. :ph34r:


http://lbp.me/v/w26tjn

http://i2.lbp.me/img/ft/61296012e2a7325e98a9c8117a01c257be2fe665.jpg




Though really, I think it's a shame that these remakes inevitably get more attention than other LBP creations.
They're never the best example of creativity (or quality) to be found on the servers.

[Darwock]

The japanese version is finally out. I'm really impressed with how seamlessly it picks up where you left off in LBP one. All my levels are back, including my WIP that I thought I had lost for good when my old PS3 expired (I guess I had backed it up, lucky!)

The hearts I had earned before were also kept, so I unlocked quite a few of the community awards the first time I loaded it. Number of plays was reset to 0 though, and other things like maxing the thermometer and using a custom sticker were not unlocked until I republished the levels.

Something puzzles me - two of my levels have got little white badges on them with a pink MM logo, what does this mean? It's on the 2 of my 4 levels which I haven't republished yet.

I can't easily see a list of my friend's levels or their hearted levels, which seems to be the only negative change so far.

edit - although, it seems the physics have changed. My paintinator level which worked fine in LBP1 was not working correctly here. The mechanical switches I used for logic circuits were broken. I was able to fix some of them by reducing the strength of the motor bolts, but it still needs a bit of tweaking to get back to full working order. That's a shame.

[JP]

We are very proud to present to you the preview trailer for Hansel & Gretelbot, a very special community project based loosely on an old fairy tale, and that’s nearly ready for you to play!

Hansel & Gretelbot is the creation of 12 community members, names you may well recognise:
Wexfordian, Comphermc, Morgana25, rtm223, Hilightnotes, xkappax, Catiers, GruntosUK, CENTURION24, Jaeyden, Cuzfeeshe and steve_big_guns.
A few months ago the Community Molecule set them a challenge – could they create a full game experience? Their own complete LBP Theme, using the new LBP2 tools to develop all original story, mini-games, bosses, cutscenes, music, and voices.

The team was gathered, designs were drawn up, themes were picked and building began, now several months later they are very nearly ready to launch their project for you to play!
1w45Cgca4O4&hd

That was from last week and it's available now for free by going here (http://lbp.me/v/xyb97w) and adding Level 1 to your download queue.

[Darwock]

Not even necessary to do that, these levels are all over the community pages in the game itself right now.

I tried out the first few - didn't like it much actually. The long movie intros are getting old, and they are even worse when narrated by some irritating Irish bloke.

The platforming stage was well thought out and great to look at. Top marks. Then it changed to a scrolling shooter which frankly sucked. I didn't continue beyond that.

The decison to allow people to record their own voices and insert them into the game may be the worst feature in LBP2, if these levels are anything to go by...

I haven't seen it discussed but the Toyota Prius level was stunning! I presume MM themselves were behind that, even though it's in the community section.

[merf]

I found those hyped community levels irritating, got bored in the intro movie, a level fail load going to 2 and lost the sackbot thing within a couple of screens of the start.

Then quit out frustrated as it seemed to rely on that most irritating fault of the game, the in/out of the screen jump to progress.

You really see how hard it is to play test and make a smooth level when you see the MM stuff up against the user content.

[Darwock]

The snail racer stage was actually quite good, but I didn't have any opponents so I couldn't test it in anger. It felt nice and tight to control though, a lot better than the dire scrolling shooter one.


Then quit out frustrated as it seemed to rely on that most irritating fault of the game, the in/out of the screen jump to progress.

Thats is not a fault. That's the way the game works. It's really not hard to grasp.

[Tig]

although I've yet to play the Hanzel & Gretelbot levels, I have a suspicion that this project has been rushed out the door too quickly with Media Molecule waving it along.

It's clearly been arranged by MM to some degree- not emerging organically from the community. I reckon it's simply too soon for an ambitious project like that to be a success. The game hasn't been out for long, and the community as a whole has yet to master the tools.


Still, it's great to see some of the big community names from LBP1 returning. I'm looking forward to trying it too.



Thats is not a fault. That's the way the game works. It's really not hard to grasp.

seconded.

[merf]

i think the 3 planes of in/out movement in essentially a 2d platformer is a stupid idea and it never adds anything, merely detracts.

in the MM levels they rarely rely on you spotting some tiny gap to go behind the scenery and progress (though they often hide prixes there), in quite a lot of user levels though people seem to think its a good idea.

i grasp it, its not beyond my mental faculties, I simply think its a bit crap and a corner they've painted themselves into now, fortunately the majority of the game avoids it and it simply becomes an occasional irritation rather than a deal breaker for me.

[Dogg Thang]

This could be totally old news as I haven't been reading anything LBP but I was just watching Channel AKA (yes, I'm down with the kids) and a new N-Dubz video came on. And, well, look at it...

o5HX-CfDF78

[MisterBubbles]

Loved the end....B**** slapped.

[Darwock]

So, this is how the game is being promoted in Japan (I think you have to skip to 15m in before anything happens in the video):

LEg3bX9hOvc

This is a group called 'Idoling'. My fiancee saw them doing some sort of dance routine in those costumes, but I couldn't find that online.

Assuming nobody will manage to make it to the end of that, the other thing of note in the video is that Sony Japan are offering a 1 million yen prize to the winner of the next stage design competition. A bit better than the virtual crown.