Announced at their Gamescom conference yesterday, Sony is preparing LittleBigPlanet Hub as a free PS3 download that enables everyone to get in on the creative action. While this may or may not relate to the rumour that LittleBigPlanet 3 was in development at Sumo Digital, LittleBigPlanet Hub looks as though it's an 'add-on' social experience rather than a full-blown game. Details were scarce, but we do know that there will be 16 levels from the original LittleBigPlanet and its sequel included, and that the series trademark level (and game) creation elements will be in full force. You'll be able to run and jump through a selection of the series' best levels to get inspiration for your own creations. One of the things we love the most about the franchise is that, with enough patience, the possibilities really are endless in terms of what you can create. From straightforward platforming levels to puppet shows, mini-movies and complete games all possible, the LittleBigPlanet toolbox is versatile indeed and the whole thing's presented with such charm and attention to detail that it's hard not to be pulled in.
In addition to this content from the previous games, the new Hub will include a few new social elements to get Sackboys and Girls playing together online. There'll be Hub exclusive 'Team Picks' which will shine the spotlight on a selection of the very best user-generated content each week, and weekly challenges will also be set so you can hone your skills and see how you measure up to other players out there. Of course, the amount of content on offer will be limited as this is a 'Free-to-play' experience meaning that additional content will be offered, for a price, through the game itself via micro-transactions. While it's easy to criticise the 'Free-to-play' model, we must admit that it's quite well suited to LittleBigPlanet with its focus on customisation and of course it's up to each player to decide whether they really need to buy that new outfit for their Sackperson.
With the new LittleBigPlanet Hub on its way soon, he's on top of the world.
While LittleBigPlanet Hub was a nice surprise, and one we'll be downloading and tinkering with for sure, the future of the series is still unknown. LittleBigPlanet 3 may have been moved to PS4 (where its focus on creativity and content sharing would likely make it an important title, much as the original was for PS3), or it may still be headed to current systems in some form. Either way, it's good to know that the series' appeal is still as strong as ever, and this free download is a great way to attract new players, while reminding LBP veterans that there's still so much to play, create and share.
LittleBigPlanet Hub will be available from PlayStation Network later this year.
