LocoRoco

{{Short description|2006 video game}} {{Use mdy dates|date=November 2024}} {{good article}}{{Infobox video game | title = LocoRoco | image = LocoRoco Coverart.png | caption = European cover art | developer = [[Japan Studio]]{{efn|Developed as [[Japan Studio]] for the PlayStation 4 version. Mobile version developed by Gamelion.}} | publisher = [[Sony Computer Entertainment]]{{efn|Released as [[Sony Interactive Entertainment]] on the PlayStation 4. Mobile version published by [[Glu Mobile]].}} | platforms = [[PlayStation Portable]], [[mobile phone]], [[PlayStation 4]] | released = '''PlayStation Portable'''{{vgrelease|EU|June 23, 2006|AU|June 29, 2006|JP|July 13, 2006|NA|September 5, 2006}}'''Mobile'''{{vgrelease|JP|February 16, 2007|NA|May 15, 2009}}'''PlayStation 4'''{{vgrelease|WW|May 9, 2017}} | genre = [[Platformer|Platform]], [[Puzzle video game|puzzle]] | modes = [[Single-player video game|Single-player]] | director = Tsutomu Kouno | designer = Tsutomu Kouno | artist = Keigo Tsuchiya | composer = Nobuyuki Shimizu<br/>Kemmei Adachi }}

{{Nihongo foot|'''''LocoRoco'''''|ロコロコ|Rocoroco|group=lower-alpha|lead=yes}} is a 2006 [[Platformer|platform]] [[video game]] developed and published by [[Sony Computer Entertainment]] for the [[PlayStation Portable]]. The game was conceived by Tsutomu Kouno, who strived to create a game that was different from other titles being released for the PSP at the time. After demonstrating a prototype of the core gameplay to his management, Kouno was able to complete development over the course of a year and a half. In ''LocoRoco'', the player must tilt the environment by using the shoulder buttons on the PSP in order to maneuver the LocoRoco, multi-colored [[Gelatin|jelly]]-like characters, through each level, being aided by other odd residents while avoiding hazards and the deadly Moja Troop, to reach an end goal. Along the way, the LocoRoco can grow in size by eating special berries, and then can be split and rejoined to pass the LocoRoco through narrow spaces. The game's bright and colorful visuals and dynamic music soundtrack were hallmarks of the game, earning it several awards from the gaming press in 2006. While the game did not sell high volumes, its success led to the development of three other ''LocoRoco'' titles – two sequels for the PlayStation Portable: ''[[LocoRoco 2]]'' and ''[[LocoRoco Midnight Carnival]]'', and a spin-off for the [[PlayStation 3]] titled ''[[LocoRoco Cocoreccho!]]''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/locoroco-mobile-spotted-in-japan/1100-6164797/|title=LocoRoco Mobile spotted in Japan|last=Boyes|first=Emma|date=2007-01-26|website=GameSpot|language=en-US|access-date=2018-09-30|archive-date=2018-09-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180930193505/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/locoroco-mobile-spotted-in-japan/1100-6164797/|url-status=live}}</ref>

A remastered version of the game was released in 2017 for the [[PlayStation 4]].<ref>{{cite web |title=From rough concept sketch to PS4 remaster: The complete story of LocoRoco |url=https://blog.playstation.com/archive/2017/05/09/from-rough-concept-sketch-to-ps4-remaster-the-complete-story-of-locoroco/ |website=Playstation blog |date=May 9, 2017 |access-date=30 April 2024}}</ref>

==Plot== Living peacefully on a faraway planet, the LocoRoco and their friends, the Mui Mui, help grow vegetation and look after nature, making the planet a pleasant place to be, playing and singing the days away. When the Moja Troop comes to the planet to take it over, the LocoRoco do not know how to fight against these invaders from outer space. As such, the player assumes the role of "the planet" that is capable of guiding the LocoRoco around to defeat the Moja Troop and rescue the remaining LocoRoco, returning the planet to its peaceful ways.<ref name="eurogamer review"/>

==Gameplay== [[File:Locoroco-screen.jpg|left|thumb|The Yellow LocoRoco Kulche moving about the world currently tilted to the right; a berry that will increase Kulche's size is to the far right, while a Mui Mui figure as at the bottom. A Pickory is shown below Kulche.]] ''LocoRoco'' is divided into 5 worlds each consisting of 8 levels. In each level, the goal is to reach the end point of the level, with the player scored on the number of LocoRoco found, the time to complete the level, and other factors. There are six varieties of LocoRoco in the game, identified by their color, appearance, and musical voice, but outside of the first "Yellow" one, the rest are unlocked as the player completes the level.<ref name="eurogamer review"/> The player can then opt which LocoRoco they want to use for a level, however, this selection has no fundamental gameplay effects and only changes the songs used. LocoRoco act as blobs of [[gelatin]], deforming from their normally round shape when demanded by the environment.<ref name="cnn review"/> Certain beings in the world can change the default shape of the LocoRoco into other forms, such as squares or triangles, which lasts until the end of the level or they encounter another similar being.

The player starts with a single LocoRoco. When this LocoRoco eats a berry, it grows by one, up to a maximum size of twenty. The single large LocoRoco may be split into individual beings by tapping a face button or through specific points on the level, while individual LocoRoco can merge back into a single being by holding down a face button. Manipulation of the LocoRoco in this manner may be necessary to guide them to the finish; while the single large LocoRoco is easier to control, small passages can only be navigated by individual LocoRoco.<ref name="eurogamer review"/> The player can lose LocoRoco if they are touched by harmful objects or they run into the Moja, and the player will have to restart the level if they lose all their LocoRoco. The player does not otherwise directly control the LocoRoco, but instead controls the planet itself, tilting the planet using the shoulder buttons. This causes the LocoRoco to roll in the direction of tilt, as well as causing certain mechanical objects such as platforms to also tilt.<ref name="cnn review"/> The player can also cause the LocoRoco to jump by holding and releasing both shoulder buttons; this not only allows the LocoRoco a way to cross gaps, but to burst through walls as well as harm the Moja without taking damage.<ref name="cnn review"/> As the player collects more Loco Roco in a level, the music gains more [[melody|voices]], each Loco Roco singing a part in the overall song.<ref name="eurogamer review"/>

Throughout the levels are areas that require a minimum number of LocoRoco in order to cause them to sing and wake up one of the planet's odd residents, who will then reward the player with an item for their "Loco House".<ref name="eurogamer review"/> There are also hidden Mui Mui throughout the levels to be found. Levels also contain "Pickories" which can be collected by the LocoRoco and are used as a form of currency to play two mini-games outside of the main game. The mini-games are "Mui Mui Crane", a variation of a [[Claw vending machine|crane game]], and "Chuppa Chuppa" that use Chuppa, bird-like launchers for the LocoRoco, to navigate a long course. Both mini-games grant additional Loco House parts and Pickories as prizes. The player can use the accumulated Loco House parts to create a course that the Loco Roco will automatically navigate, with additional parts that can be collected by directing the course appropriately. A Loco Editor is also an unlockable feature in the game, creating an interactive course with a start and finish using the Loco House parts.<ref name="eurogamer review"/>

==Development== [[File:Locoroco-sketch.jpg|thumb|right|Tsutomu Kouno's original sketch for ''Loco Roco'', drawn on a [[Personal digital assistant|PDA]], led to his idea of "rotating the landscape" as a key game mechanic.]] ''LocoRoco'' was envisioned by Tsutomu Kouno, who had previously worked on the development of ''[[Ico]]''.<ref name="gamasutra kouno">{{cite web | url = https://www.gamedeveloper.com/design/the-thoughtful-design-of-locoroco-tsutomu-kouno-speaks | title = The Thoughtful Design of LocoRoco: Tsutomu Kouno Speaks | publisher = [[Gamasutra]] | first = Christian | last = Nutt | date = 2009-03-02 | access-date = 2009-03-02 | archive-date = 2009-03-05 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090305113916/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/3950/the_thoughtful_design_of_locoroco_.php | url-status = live }}</ref> While on a train during the second quarter of 2004,<ref name="joystiq gdc">{{cite web | url = http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/11/making-locoroco-players-smile/ | title = Making LocoRoco players smile | first = Zack | last = Stern | publisher = Joystiq | date = 2007-03-11 | access-date = 2009-03-02 | archive-date=2007-03-13 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070313194359/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/11/making-locoroco-players-smile/ | url-status = dead }}</ref> Kouno had used a [[Personal digital assistant|PDA]] to sketch a game that would involve multiple similar characters that would not be in direct control of the player.<ref name="joystiq kouno">{{cite web | url = http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/01/tgs07-interview-with-loco-rocos-tsutomu-kouno/ | title = TGS07: Interview with Loco Roco's Tsutomu Kouno | first = Jem | last = Alexander | date = 2009-03-02 | access-date = 2009-03-02 | publisher = Joystiq | archive-date = 2008-03-02 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080302033223/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/01/tgs07-interview-with-loco-rocos-tsutomu-kouno/ | url-status = live }}</ref> He realized the planet-tilting aspect after seeing how rotating the phone with the sketch around would lead to a compelling game. At that time, the [[PlayStation Portable]] was nearing release, and Kouno felt the unit's shoulder buttons would be appropriate for the tilting controls.<ref name="gamasutra kouno"/> Kouno also opted to develop for the PSP to break the mold of other, more complicated sequels from [[PlayStation 2]] games that were being developed for the unit and instead create something that "really seemed at home on the PSP".<ref name="gamasutra kouno"/> Kouno also wanted "every aspect of the game [...] to be unique", and led to his choices for graphics and music in the game.<ref name="gamasutra kouno"/>

Three concepts were part of Kouno's vision for the game, "easy to play, fun and to have dramatic visuals".<ref name="gamasutra develop"/> Kouno sought not only to make the game accessible to younger players, but also to a wider, international audience. While his team experimented with different control schemes for the game, they recognized that the simple tilting controls would be easily learned by children as well as those outside Japan.<ref name="gamasutra kouno"/> This approach also led to the use of a new "language" for the music, instead of relying on Japanese works which would not be understood by the international audience.<ref name="gamasutra kouno"/> However, despite the simple controls, Kouno noted they included deep gameplay around those that would require players to master to gain all the collectibles in the game.<ref name="gamasutra kouno"/>

Kouno opted to keep the game in [[2D computer graphics|2D]] instead of the more popular [[3D computer graphics|3D]] to maintain the simplicity of the game.<ref name="gamasutra kouno"/> The ''Loco Roco'' team had experimented with different designs for the characters and world, including [[claymation]], papercraft, and detailed textures,<ref name="joystiq gdc"/> but settled on the resulting patterns not only to convey a "bright, cheerful" world, but as well as to keep budget costs down, no longer having a need to seek artists for textures.<ref name="gamasutra kouno"/> Kouno drew upon his interest in the natural world to design the other characters in the game; for example, one character was based on the appearance of his pet tropical fish.<ref name="gamasutra develop"/> Kouno found that using 2D graphics allowed him to constantly present the faces of the LocoRoco and other beings within the game, and used that to convey a constant sense of emotion from all the characters.<ref name="eurogamer interview"/> [[Autodesk Maya|Maya]] was used to construct the levels and place hazards and obstacles.<ref name="joystiq gdc"/> The graphics themselves were based on using and animating [[Bézier curve]]s, a feature of the PSP's software capabilities.<ref name="ign interview">{{cite web | url = http://psp.ign.com/articles/775/775414p1.html | title = The Future of PSP -- SCE Japan | first = Mark | last = Nix | date = 2007-03-23 | access-date = 2009-03-04 | publisher = IGN | archive-date = 2007-10-12 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071012161058/http://psp.ign.com/articles/775/775414p1.html | url-status = live }}</ref>

Kouno had attempted to present the idea at pitch meetings twice in the early part of 2005 but was turned away.<ref name="gamasutra develop">{{cite web | url = http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=14850 | title = Develop UK: LocoRoco's Kouno Talks Innovative Design | publisher = [[Gamasutra]] | first = Jon | last = Jordan | date = 2007-07-27 | access-date = 2009-03-02 | archive-date = 2007-11-07 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071107031634/http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=14850 | url-status = dead }}</ref> While management was able to understand the mechanic of tilting the world, they could not understand Kouno's vision of applying [[artificial intelligence]] to the LocoRoco or other creatures in the game.<ref name="develop interview"/> On the second rejection, the management staff suggested that Kouno return with something more concrete to explain his ideas.<ref>{{cite news | url = https://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20060915.gtKouno0915/BNStory/Technology/AtPlay/ | title = Tsutomu Kouno | newspaper = [[The Globe and Mail]] | date = 2006-09-15 | access-date = 2009-03-05 | first = Chad | last = Sapieha | archive-date = 2009-03-14 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090314050544/http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20060915.gtKouno0915/BNStory/Technology/AtPlay/ | url-status = live }}</ref> Kouno spent one month with a four-person team to create a simple pre-prototype version of the game that demonstrated the rolling gameplay aspect.<ref name="joystiq gdc"/> The pre-prototype version was well received, and Kouno was given further resources to develop the full game.<ref name="gamasutra develop"/> A complete prototype was created by an eight-person team over three months to establish the rest of the game's core mechanics, including the joining and splitting of the Loco Roco and the dynamic music.<ref name="gamasutra develop"/> The remainder of the game was completed in the following 11 months by the full 16-person staff at [[Sony Computer Entertainment|Sony Computer Entertainment Japan]].<ref name="joystiq gdc"/><ref name="ign interview"/> The game was released in 2006 in Europe on June 23,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bramwell |first=Tom |date=June 6, 2006 |title=The LocoMotion |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/i-locoroco-psp |access-date=April 7, 2024 |website=[[Eurogamer]]}}</ref> Australia on June 29,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jastzrab |first=Jeremy |date=June 12, 2006 |title=Updated Australian release list, 12/06/06 |url=http://palgn.com.au/article.php?title=Updated+Australian+release+list%2C+12%2F06%2F06&id=4745&sid=8b6941472e4b8ce9849ebb557437b2d6 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060613234622/http://palgn.com.au/article.php?title=Updated+Australian+release+list%2C+12%2F06%2F06&id=4745&sid=8b6941472e4b8ce9849ebb557437b2d6 |archive-date=June 13, 2006 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |website=PALGN}}</ref> Japan on July 13,<ref>{{Cite web |date=June 14, 2006 |title=''LocoRoco'' PSP gear rolling into stores |url=https://www.siliconera.com/locoroco-psp-gear-rolling-into-stores/ |access-date=April 7, 2024 |website=[[Siliconera]]}}</ref> and North America on September 5.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sanders |first=Kathleen |date=July 26, 2006 |title=''LocoRoco'' Holds a Secret |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/07/26/locoroco-holds-a-secret |access-date=April 7, 2024 |website=[[IGN]]}}</ref>

==Soundtrack== {{Listen |filename=LocoRoco-BuBuPoruche.ogg |title=Track #5: "Bu Bu Poruche", from the ''LocoRoco'' Original Soundtrack |description=''LocoRoco'''s soundtrack uses a fictional language created by Kouno to appeal to an international audience. |format=[[Ogg]]}} The soundtrack for ''LocoRoco'' is based on a [[fictional language]] created by Kouno to avoid alienating foreign players by using Japanese music.<ref name="gamasutra kouno"/> Kouno created the language by compiling a list of interesting words in [[katakana]], then altering the words slightly to make them sound cool in Japanese as to mask their origins.<ref name="joystiq kouno"/> Kouno then sent the lyrics along with some of his preferred [[reggae]], [[soul music|soul]] and [[rhythm and blues|R&B]] music to the composers, [[Nobuyuki Shimizu]] and Kemmei Adachi, to complete the soundtrack.<ref name="joystiq kouno"/> Kouno requested that the composers use as little electronic-sounding instruments as possible to give the music a feeling of "live sound".<ref name="eurogamer interview"/> The team ultimately created about 60 songs to be used in the game.<ref name="joystiq gdc"/> While the soundtrack had many different themes, Kouno felt that the fictional LocoRoco language helped to unify the songs across the game.<ref name="eurogamer interview"/>

The '''''LocoRoco Original Soundtrack: LocoRoco No Uta''''' was published by [[Columbia Records]] and released in October 2006 in Japan. The album contains 42 tracks from the game.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-8l-49-en-70-1kyk.html | title = LocoRoco Original Soundtrack: LocoRoco No Uta | publisher = [[Play Asia]] | access-date = 2009-03-05 | archive-date = 2011-06-15 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110615164351/http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-8l-49-en-70-1kyk.html | url-status = live }}</ref>

==Versions== ===Demos=== Following the release of Firmware 2.7 on April 25, 2006, a downloadable [[Game demo|demo]] of ''LocoRoco'' was released on the game's Japanese website and was the first Sony-sanctioned user-downloadable game for the PSP.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news250406locoroco | title = LocoRoco PSP demo | publisher = [[Eurogamer]] | first = Tom | last = Bradwell | date = 2006-04-25 | access-date = 2009-03-05 | archive-date = 2009-04-15 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090415145938/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news250406locoroco | url-status = live }}</ref> A demo localized for western countries was released in June 2006, shortly before the game's full European release.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news060606locorocodemoeuro | title = LocoRoco European demo | date = 2006-06-06 | access-date = 2009-03-05 | publisher = [[Eurogamer]] | first = Tom | last = Bradwell | archive-date = 2010-04-07 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100407082845/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news060606locorocodemoeuro | url-status = live }}</ref> It includes one level that will take the player around 5–15 minutes to complete, depending on the number of secret areas the player encounters.<ref name="eurogamer interview">{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/i_locoroco_psp | title = The LocoMotion | first = Tom | last = Bramwell | publisher = [[Eurogamer]] | date = 2006-06-05 | access-date = 2009-03-05 | archive-date = 2009-08-25 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090825220133/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/i_locoroco_psp | url-status = live }}</ref> A special Halloween-themed demo was released for download on October 26, 2006,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news271006pspfirmware | title = LocoRoco Halloween demo | date = 2006-10-27 | access-date = 2009-03-05 | first = Tom | last = Bramwell | publisher = [[Eurogamer]] | archive-date = 2012-09-28 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120928080810/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news271006pspfirmware | url-status = live }}</ref> It featured some exclusive graphics and objects, like Jack-o-lanterns, spirits, and more. Few puzzles were implemented. A Christmas-themed demo was released for download on December 11, 2006.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news271106locoroco | title = LocoRoco gets Christmassy | date = 2006-11-26 | access-date = 2009-03-05 | first = Tom | last = Bramwell | publisher = [[Eurogamer]] | archive-date = 2012-09-28 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120928080818/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news271106locoroco | url-status = live }}</ref> It featured some exclusive graphics like Santa's sleigh and more. A unique LocoRoco song is implemented.

===Mobile version=== A mobile version of ''LocoRoco'', ''LocoRoco Mobile'', was created for distribution via [[i-mode]], a wireless service in Japan, and was made available as a pre-installed application for [[Sony Ericsson|Sony Ericsson SO703i]] devices on February 16, 2007.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.jp.playstation.com/scej/mobile/locoroco/index.html | title = ロコロコモバイル LocoRoco Mobile | publisher = [[Sony Computer Entertainment|Sony Computer Entertainment Japan]] | access-date = 2009-03-04 | language = ja | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090305095128/http://www.jp.playstation.com/scej/mobile/locoroco/index.html | archive-date = 2009-03-05 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=February 16, 2007 |title=上質感あるデザインの Style-Upパネルと、アロマの香りの組み合わせが新しい『SO703i』の発売について |trans-title=About the release of "SO703i", a new combination of a Style-Up panel with a high quality design and an aroma scent |url=http://www.sonyericsson.co.jp/company/press/20070216_so703i.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070226121701/http://www.sonyericsson.co.jp/company/press/20070216_so703i.html |archive-date=February 26, 2007 |access-date=April 7, 2024 |website=[[Sony Ericsson]]}}</ref> The mobile game has since been released in western countries by developer Gamelion and publisher [[Glu Mobile]] as ''LocoRoco Hi'' on May 15, 2009.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.pocketgamer.co.uk/r/Mobile/LocoRoco+Hi/news.asp?c=11187 | title = LocoRoco Hi rolling out onto mobile | publisher = [[Pocket Gamer]] | date = 2009-01-27 | access-date = 2009-03-04 | first = Spanner | last = Spencer | archive-date = 2009-02-03 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090203083216/http://www.pocketgamer.co.uk/r/Mobile/LocoRoco+Hi/news.asp?c=11187 | url-status = live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 15, 2009 |title=Glu Mobile's Q2 line-up |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/glu-mobile-s-q2-line-up-angels-demons-puzzle-locoroco-hi-and-transformers-revenge-of-the-fallen-headed-for-european-mobiles |access-date=April 7, 2024 |website=[[GamesIndustry]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Spencer |first=Spanner |date=May 15, 2009 |title=''LocoRoco Hi'' rolls out onto mobile |url=https://www.pocketgamer.com/locoroco-hi/locoroco-hi-rolls-out-onto-mobile/ |access-date=April 7, 2024 |website=[[Pocket Gamer]]}}</ref>

==Reception== {{Video game reviews | GR = 85%<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamerankings.com/psp/930044-locoroco/index.html | title = LocoRoco for PSP | publisher = [[GameRankings]] | access-date = 2009-03-04 | archive-date = 2009-03-08 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090308093219/http://www.gamerankings.com/psp/930044-locoroco/index.html | url-status = live }}</ref> | MC = 83/100<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/psp/locorocof | title = LocoRoco (psp: 2006) Reviews | publisher = [[Metacritic]] | access-date = 2009-03-04 }}{{Dead link|date=June 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> | 1UP = B+<ref name="1up review">{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/reviews/locoroco_4 | title = LocoRoco (PSP) | date = 2006-09-05 | access-date = 2009-03-04 | first = Sam | last = Kennedy | website= [[1UP.com]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121104204737/http://www.1up.com/reviews/locoroco_4 |archive-date=2012-11-04 |url-status=dead}}</ref> | EuroG = 9/10<ref name="eurogamer review">{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_locoroco_psp | title = LocoRoco | first = Kristan | last = Reed | date = 2006-06-05 | access-date = 2009-03-04 | website = [[Eurogamer]] | archive-date = 2009-02-26 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090226181606/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_locoroco_psp | url-status = live }}</ref> | Fam = 34/40<ref>{{cite web | author=Reilly, Adam | date=July 6, 2009 | title=Nintendo Reviews <nowiki>|</nowiki> Famitsu Rates bit Generations & More at C3 News | url=http://www.cubed3.com/news/5477 | work=Cubed3.com | access-date=2009-08-18 | archive-date=2008-08-29 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080829134351/http://www.cubed3.com/news/5477 | url-status=live }}</ref> | GamePro = 3/5<ref name="gamepro review">{{cite magazine | url = http://www.gamepro.com/sony/psp/games/reviews/79801.shtml | title = Review: LocoRoco | author = DFS | date = 2006-09-05 | access-date = 2020-11-23 | magazine = [[GamePro]] | archive-date = 2008-08-08 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080808212748/http://www.gamepro.com/sony/psp/games/reviews/79801.shtml | url-status = dead}}</ref> | GSpot = 7.7/10<ref name="gamespot review">{{cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/psp/action/locoroco/review.html | title = LocoRoco | first = Jeff | last = Gerstmann | date = 2006-09-05 | access-date = 2009-03-04 | website = [[GameSpot]] | archive-date = 2009-02-09 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090209053806/http://www.gamespot.com/psp/action/locoroco/review.html | url-status = live }}</ref> | GSpy = 3.5/5<ref name="gamespy review">{{cite web | url = http://psp.gamespy.com/playstation-portable/loco-roco/731202p1.html | title = LocoRoco Review | date = 2006-09-05 | access-date = 2009-03-04 | first = Will | last = Tuttle | website = [[GameSpy]] | archive-date = 2016-03-03 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160303171915/http://psp.gamespy.com/playstation-portable/loco-roco/731202p1.html | url-status = live }}</ref> | IGN = 9/10<ref name="ign review">{{cite web | url = http://psp.ign.com/articles/730/730456p1.html | title = LocoRoco Review | first = Juan | last = Castro | website = IGN | date = 2006-09-05 | access-date = 2009-03-04 | archive-date = 2009-02-11 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090211091044/http://psp.ign.com/articles/730/730456p1.html | url-status = live }}</ref> |PALGN = 8/10<ref name="palgn review">{{cite web | url = http://www.palgn.com.au/article.php?title=LocoRoco+Review&id=4731&sid=6863fb80f6f7b49b470339c9645f7c51 | title = LocoRoco Review: It's Loco, but is it any good? | first = Luke | last = Leuveren| website = PALGN | date = 2006-09-10 | access-date = 2020-11-23 | archive-date = 2008-03-19 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080319050936/http://www.palgn.com.au/article.php?title=LocoRoco+Review&id=4731&sid=6863fb80f6f7b49b470339c9645f7c51| url-status = dead}}</ref> |PG = 4.5/5<ref name="pg review">{{cite web | url = http://www.pocketgamer.co.uk/r/PSP/LocoRoco/review.asp?c=1249 | title = LocoRoco: The PSP is on a Roll | first = Owain | last = Bennallack| website = [[Pocket Gamer]] | date = 2006-06-23 | access-date = 2020-11-23 | archive-date = 2006-08-19 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20060819150515/http://www.pocketgamer.co.uk/r/PSP/LocoRoco/review.asp?c=1249 | url-status = live}}</ref> |XPlay = 4/5<ref name="xplay review">{{cite web | url = http://www.g4tv.com/xplay/reviews/1248/Loco_Roco.html | title = Loco Roco| first = Gus | last = Mastrapa | website = [[X-Play]]| access-date = 2020-11-23 | archive-date = 2008-09-07 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080907165012/http://www.g4tv.com/xplay/reviews/1248/Loco_Roco.html | url-status = live}}</ref> }}

''LocoRoco'' has received mostly positive reviews from critics. The game was consistently praised for its bright and bold graphics. Charles Herold of the ''[[New York Times]]'' compared the graphics to ''[[Katamari Damacy]]'', calling them "simple" and "pretty"<ref name="nytimes review"/> while Sam Kennedy of ''[[1UP.com|1UP]]'' considered it akin to "playing out an adorable cartoon".<ref name="1up review"/> The unique environments of each level were also credited to help the game's charm, with Kristan Reed of ''[[Eurogamer]]'' believing that the game presents a "look and feel unlike anything we've seen before" and that shows "a truly brilliant realisation of how to take 2D gaming into uncharted territory."<ref name="eurogamer review"/> The music of the game was considered to be "quirky and catchy",<ref name="cnn review">{{cite news | url = http://www.cnn.com/2006/TECH/fun.games/09/01/loco.roco/ | title = Rock 'n' roll with 'LocoRoco' | date = 2006-09-01 | access-date = 2009-03-05 | first = Marc | last = Saltzmann | publisher = CNN | archive-date = 2012-11-06 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121106110414/http://www.cnn.com/2006/TECH/fun.games/09/01/loco.roco/ | url-status = live }}</ref><ref name="1up review"/><ref name="nytimes review"/> with Will Tuttle of [[GameSpy]] saying that "there's a good chance that you'll be humming some of the tunes all day".<ref name="gamespy review"/> The game, at times, was compared to a "slow-motion version of ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog (1991 video game)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]''" with the player controlling the LocoRoco as they move up and down hills and through loop-de-loops in the level.<ref name="1up review"/><ref name="nytimes review">{{cite news | url = https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9D0DE4D61631F934A3575AC0A9609C8B63&sec=&spon=&pagewanted=1 | title = Game Theory; What's Your Mood: Chaotic Epic or Childlike Journey? | newspaper = [[New York Times]] | first = Charles | last = Harold | date = 2006-09-07 | access-date = 2009-03-04 | archive-date = 2012-11-08 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121108042656/http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9D0DE4D61631F934A3575AC0A9609C8B63&sec=&spon=&pagewanted=1 | url-status = live }}</ref> This gameplay allows the game to be easily accessible to players, with ''[[IGN]]''{{'}}s Juan Castro noting that the controls are "not simplistic so much as it's refreshingly elegant",<ref name="ign review"/> and Kennedy commenting that while ''LocoRoco'' is not perfect, it was "perfect for the PSP".<ref name="1up review"/> As noted by Neil McGreevy of the [[BBC]], ''LocoRoco'' "is the best game Nintendo never made."<ref name="bbc review">{{cite news | url = https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/5071830.stm | title = Tiny blobs bring PSP to life | publisher = BBC | date = 2006-06-17 | access-date = 2009-03-04 | first = Neil | last = McGreevy | archive-date = 2009-02-15 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090215160234/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/5071830.stm | url-status = live }}</ref>

A common complaint from game reviewers was the repetitive nature of the game, as no new gameplay mechanics are introduced after the player learns to roll and jump, and that the levels are "far from challenging".<ref name="gamespot review"/><ref name="gamespy review"/> However, these reviewers also commented that the monotonous gameplay is not as significant an issue with a gaming system like the PSP that encourages shorter play sessions.<ref name="gamespot review"/><ref name="gamespy review"/> Reviewers also commented on the length of the game, considering it short with only a few extras that would add some additional enjoyment after completing the main game.<ref name="eurogamer review"/><ref name="gamespot review"/>

''LocoRoco'' won two awards at the 2006 [[British Academy Video Games Awards|BAFTA Games Awards]] for "Best Children's Game" and "Best Character", and was nominated for six additional awards: "Best Audio", "Best Original Score", "Best Innovation", "Artistic Achievement", "Best Gameplay" and "Best Casual and Social Game".<ref name="BAFTA awards">{{cite web|url=http://www.bafta.org/awards/video-games/nominations/?year=2006 |title=Games Nominations 2006 |publisher=[[BAFTA]] |access-date=2009-03-04 |year=2006 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081220123035/http://www.bafta.org/awards/video-games/nominations/?year=2006 |archive-date=December 20, 2008 }}</ref> ''LocoRoco'' also won two awards at the [[10th Annual Interactive Achievement Awards]] for "[[D.I.C.E. Award for Family Game of the Year|Children's Game of the Year]]" and "[[D.I.C.E. Award for Outstanding Achievement in Original Music Composition|Outstanding Achievement in Original Music Composition]]", in addition to being nominated for "Outstanding Innovation in Gaming" and "[[D.I.C.E. Award for Mobile Game of the Year|Handheld Game of the Year]]".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.interactive.org/awards/annual_awards.asp?idAward=2007 |title=AIAS Annual Awards - 10th Annual Awards |year=2006 |access-date=2009-03-04 |publisher=[[Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090201135915/http://interactive.org/awards/annual_awards.asp?idAward=2007 |archive-date=2009-02-01 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The [[Associated Press]] named ''LocoRoco'' its handheld game of the year for 2006.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,236302,00.html |title=Reviews: Best, Worst in Video Games 2006 |agency=Associated Press |date=2006-12-13 |access-date=2009-03-04 |first=Matt |last=Slagle |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080424103916/http://www.foxnews.com/story/0%2C2933%2C236302%2C00.html |archive-date=April 24, 2008 }}</ref>

Prior to its release in North America, ''1UP'' blogger Alejandro Quan-Madrid equated the Moja characters in ''LocoRoco'' to [[blackface]], and citing the game as an example of "[[institutionalized racism]] that needs calling out".<ref name="1up opinion">{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/blogEntry?bId=7208651&publicUserId=5525398 | title = Just Plain Loco | date = 2006-06-27 | access-date = 2009-03-04 | publisher = [[1UP.com|1UP]] | first = Alejandro | last = Quan-Madrid | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110522130244/http://www.1up.com/do/blogEntry?bId=7208651&publicUserId=5525398 | archive-date = 2011-05-22 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news030706locoroco | title = Is LocoRoco racist? | first = Ellie | last = Gibson | date = 2006-07-03 | access-date = 2009-03-04 | publisher = [[Eurogamer]] | archive-date = 2009-04-28 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090428145315/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news030706locoroco | url-status = live }}</ref> Quan-Madrid and ''1UP'' reporter Jemery Parish noted that the Japanese culture does not have the same racial population as western countries like the [[United States]], and as such, blackface or other similar representations of [[Black people|black persons]] are taken for granted in that country, and [[Game localization|localization]] usually handles such issues.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/blogEntry?bId=7221859&publicUserId=5379721 | title = Internet 1, Civility 0 | date = 2006-06-30 | access-date = 2009-03-04 | first = Jeremy | last = Parish | publisher = [[1UP.com|1UP]] | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110522130350/http://www.1up.com/do/blogEntry?bId=7221859&publicUserId=5379721 | archive-date = 2011-05-22 }}</ref> Quan-Madrid called on Sony to make a simple color change to the Moja, similar to what [[Capcom]] had done for the character of Oil Man in ''[[Mega Man Powered Up]]''.<ref name="1up opinion"/> Developers for the game, including Kouno, noted that the Moja character design was based on the hairstyle of Keigo Tsuchiya, the game's artist, at the time of development, and did not mean to imply any racist tones.<ref name="develop interview">{{cite magazine | url = http://www.developmag.com/interviews/50/Going-Loco | title = Going Loco | date = 2007-08-07 | first = Ed | last = Fear | magazine = Develop | access-date = 2009-03-04 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090625065745/http://www.developmag.com/interviews/50/Going-Loco | archive-date = 2009-06-25 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref name="1up opinion"/><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/going-loco | title = Going Loco | publisher = GamesIndustry.biz | first = Ellie | last = Gibson | date = 2007-05-22 | access-date = 2009-03-05 | archive-date = 2008-10-26 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081026070311/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/going-loco | url-status = live }}</ref> The accusation of racism came days before a similar charge against Sony for [[PlayStation Portable#Controversial advertising campaigns|an advertisement]] for the white-colored PSP, portraying a white woman subjugating a black woman.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/sony-defends-psp-ad-following-accusations-of-racism | title = Sony defends PSP ad following accusations of racism | date = 2006-07-05 | access-date = 2009-03-05 | first = Ellie | last = Gibson | publisher = GamesIndustry.Biz | archive-date = 2020-11-23 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20201123140145/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/sony-defends-psp-ad-following-accusations-of-racism | url-status = live }}</ref>

The Yellow LocoRoco, as seen on the game's cover, has become a mascot for the PSP system.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://videogames.yahoo.com/news-1287972 | archive-url = https://archive.today/20120718181818/http://videogames.yahoo.com/news-1287972 | url-status = dead | archive-date = 2012-07-18 | title = PSP Icon Makes Its Rolling Return With LocoRoco 2 | publisher = [[PR Newswire]] | date = 2009-02-10 | access-date = 2009-03-05 }}</ref>

Sales of ''LocoRoco'' were not strong in Japan, with just more than 30,000 copies sold the first week, and about 170,000 in total sales for the year.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/Investing/TheStreet/NintendoHitsTheNextLevel.aspx | title = Nintendo hits the next level | first = Tero | last = Kuittinen | publisher = The Street | date = 2006-08-03 | access-date = 2009-03-04 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120224204653/http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/Investing/TheStreet/NintendoHitsTheNextLevel.aspx | archive-date = 2012-02-24 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=10174 | title = Konami's Power Pro Hits Home Run In Japanese Charts | date = 2006-07-21 | access-date = 2009-03-04 | first = David | last = Jenkins | publisher = [[Gamasutra]] | archive-date = 2018-10-14 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20181014204133/http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=10174 | url-status = dead }}</ref> The game was more successful in Europe and North America, prompting Sony to start development of additional titles.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.scee.presscentre.com/Content/Detail.asp?ReleaseID=4714&NewsAreaID=2 | title = A colourful showcase of the vibrant new LocoRoco2 for PSP | publisher = [[Sony Computer Entertainment Europe]] | date = 2008-10-09 | access-date = 2009-03-05 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090404141036/http://www.scee.presscentre.com/Content/Detail.asp?ReleaseID=4714&NewsAreaID=2 | archive-date = 2009-04-04 }}</ref>

==Sequels== ''[[LocoRoco Cocoreccho]]'' is a ''LocoRoco'' program for the [[PlayStation 3]], released in September 2007 as a downloadable title through the [[PlayStation Store]]. It is described by Sony as an "interactive screensaver," rather than a game.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/locoroco-ps3-not-a-game | title = LocoRoco PS3 not a game | date = 2007-08-31 | access-date = 2009-03-04 | publisher = [[Eurogamer]] | first = Rob | last = Purchase | archive-date = 2012-10-06 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121006110504/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/locoroco-ps3-not-a-game | url-status = live }}</ref> Instead of tilting the world, the game instead puts the player in control of a butterfly that will draw LocoRoco to it, guiding them to sleeping LocoRoco to wake them up and collect enough LocoRoco to progress to other parts of the single stage.

''[[LocoRoco 2]]'', a sequel to the original ''LocoRoco'', was officially announced at the 2008 [[Tokyo Game Show]]<ref>{{cite web | url = http://psp.ign.com/articles/914/914753p1.html | title = Sony To Unveil Nine PS3 Titles at TGS | date = 2008-09-30 | access-date = 2009-03-04 | first = John | last = Tanaka | publisher = IGN | archive-date = 2008-12-27 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081227224322/http://psp.ign.com/articles/914/914753p1.html | url-status = live }}</ref> though [[Phil Harrison]], Sony's worldwide studios chief, revealed the game to be in development during an interview at the 2007 [[D.I.C.E. Summit]].<ref>{{cite web | url = http://psp.ign.com/articles/762/762856p1.html | title = Dice 2007: Phil Harrison's Been Playing LocoRoco 2 | first = Damien | last = Hatfield | date = 2007-02-07 | access-date = 2009-03-04 | publisher = IGN | archive-date = 2008-08-29 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080829234330/http://psp.ign.com/articles/762/762856p1.html | url-status = live }}</ref> The game was released worldwide between late 2008 and early 2009.

A third PSP ''LocoRoco'' game, ''[[LocoRoco Midnight Carnival]]'', is a [[Halloween]]-themed spin-off title which features an enhanced bounce skill called "Boing!"<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2009/09/01/a-closer-look-at-loco-roco-midnight-carnival/|title=A Closer Look At Loco Roco Midnight Carnival|date=1 September 2009|access-date=16 December 2017|archive-date=7 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307122918/https://blog.eu.playstation.com/2009/09/01/a-closer-look-at-loco-roco-midnight-carnival/|url-status=live}}</ref> The game was digitally released on October 29, 2009, for North American and European areas,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.shacknews.com/onearticle.x/60907 | title = LocoRoco Midnight Carnival Rolling Out October 29 | first = Nick | last = Breckon | date = 2009-10-16 | access-date = 2009-11-06 | publisher = [[Shacknews]] | archive-date = 2009-11-20 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20091120033402/http://www.shacknews.com/onearticle.x/60907 | url-status = live }}</ref> and on November 1, 2009, in Japan for the launch of the [[PSP Go]].<ref>{{cite web | author=Tanaka, John | date=August 18, 2009 | title=IGN: LocoRoco Returns | url=http://psp.ign.com/articles/101/1014901p1.html | work=IGN.com | access-date=2009-08-18 | archive-date=2009-08-22 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090822011849/http://psp.ign.com/articles/101/1014901p1.html | url-status=live }}</ref> There are also LocoRoco costumes for ''[[LittleBigPlanet]]''.

LocoRocos appear in the 2024 [[PlayStation 5]] game ''[[Astro Bot]]'', having their own themed level called Going Loco in the game's fourth area and a remixed theme song that plays in it as well with the main bot who leads Astro to the level after the boss being the Yellow LocoRoco and the bots that can be rescued in the level being the other five LocoRocos from the first game. They also assist Astro in the game's finale with the rest of the PlayStation Armada against Nebulax.

==Notes== <references group="lower-alpha" />

==References== {{reflist|2}}

==External links== {{Portal|Japan|Video games|2000s}} * [http://www.playstation.com/en-us/games/locoroco-psp/ Official website]

{{LocoRoco}}{{DEFAULTSORT:Locoroco}} [[Category:2006 video games]] [[Category:BAFTA Interactive Entertainment Award for Best Games winners]] [[Category:Glu Mobile games]] [[Category:I-mode games]] [[Category:Japan Studio games]] [[Category:Platformers]] [[Category:PlayStation 4 games]] [[Category:PlayStation Portable games]] [[Category:Puzzle video games]] [[Category:Sony Interactive Entertainment games]] [[Category:Sony Interactive Entertainment franchises]] [[Category:Video games developed in Japan]] [[Category:Video game franchises introduced in 2006]] [[Category:Single-player video games]]