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We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie
Item: We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Puzzle and Logic, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableJun 2, 2023

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

DeveloperMONKEYCRAFT Co. Ltd.

Overview

We Love Katamari Reroll + Royal Reverie is a remaster of the PS2 game We Love Katamari. The second title in the Katamari Damacy series has returned in a remastered, powered-up version! This new reroll comes with improved graphics and gameplay enhancements. In Royal Reverie, roll up katamari as the King of All Cosmos in his boyhood!

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie is a hit among critics, celebrated for its whimsical absurdity and emotional depth. While the narrative serves mainly as a backdrop for gameplay, it offers charming insights into the King of All Cosmos’ relationship with his son, enhancing the experience with laughter and poignancy. The game’s meta-commentary on sequel culture adds clever layers, though its humor, often "typically Japanese," may not appeal universally. Overall, the quirky storytelling complements the gameplay, delivering a delightful ride for fans, even if the plot isn’t the main attraction.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

64%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie is largely positive, with many critics appreciating its whimsical and absurd nature. COGconnected describes the narrative as a "non-story" that reflects the game's creation, while God is a Geek highlights its "nonsensical and ridiculous" charm, indicating that the game embraces its own silliness. Critics like Nintendo Life and Hardcore Gamer commend the emotional depth intertwined with the humor, noting the relationship between the King of All Cosmos and his son, which adds layers of laughter and poignancy. Additionally, NintendoWorldReport discusses the meta-narrative that connects the game's missions to the desires of Katamari fans, providing a clever commentary on sequel culture. This blend of humor, absurdity, and emotional moments creates a unique storytelling experience that many reviewers found engaging. However, some critics point out that the story is not the primary focus of the game and serves mainly as a setup for the gameplay. For instance, Gamer Escape mentions that the plot is simple and primarily a backdrop for the action, while GamingBolt states that the narrative is largely an excuse to engage players in the gameplay mechanics. Critics like Starbit and ZTGD also emphasize that while the story is entertaining, it doesn't take itself too seriously, suggesting that its absurdity may not resonate with everyone. Moreover, SpazioGames notes that the humor is often "typically Japanese," which might not appeal to a broader audience, indicating a potential limitation in its universal accessibility. Overall, the consensus among critics is that We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie offers a quirky and entertaining narrative that complements its gameplay, even if it isn't the central focus. Reviewers like Gamereactor Finland and PlayStation Universe appreciate the deeper themes of family and generational relationships, while others, such as Impulsegamer and Metro GameCentral, highlight the heartfelt moments that emerge from the absurdity. While the story may not be groundbreaking, it effectively enhances the whimsical nature of the game, making it a delightful experience for fans of the franchise. The blend of humor, nostalgia, and meta-commentary appears to resonate well, creating a positive reception overall.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie impresses critics with its addictive gameplay, diverse missions, and satisfying progression. While some find the controls and camera mechanics tricky initially, the overall experience remains fun and engaging for both new players and series veterans. The game successfully refines its predecessors' formula, offering quirky challenges that resonate well with fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

85%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie has received a largely positive reception from critics, who appreciate its unique mechanics and engaging core loop. Reviewers like Nintendo Life and Atomix highlight the addictive nature of rolling a Katamari to collect various objects, with the sense of progression and scale being particularly satisfying. Many critics, including COGconnected and Hardcore Gamer, commend the diverse missions and objectives that keep the gameplay fresh and interesting. The ability to switch between characters and unlock cosmetics further enhances the experience, allowing for a personalized touch. The overall sentiment is that the gameplay is not only fun but also offers a variety of challenges, making it enjoyable for both newcomers and veterans of the series. However, some criticisms have emerged regarding the controls and camera mechanics. Several reviewers, such as Cubed3 and Screen Rant, mention that the controls can be perplexing at first, requiring time to master. While many found the controls to become intuitive over time, others noted that they could feel clunky or awkward during gameplay. Issues with camera control were also pointed out by a few critics, indicating that navigating the environments could sometimes be frustrating. Despite these concerns, most reviewers agree that the gameplay remains enjoyable, even when grappling with the control scheme. Overall, the consensus among critics is that We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie successfully builds upon the beloved formula established by its predecessors. Critics like SpazioGames and The Mako Reactor emphasize that while the game does not introduce groundbreaking innovations, it refines existing mechanics and expands on mission objectives, resulting in a satisfying gameplay experience. The combination of quirky, imaginative tasks and the addictive nature of rolling up objects has resonated well with players, leading to an overall impression that the gameplay is both enjoyable and engaging.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie wows with vibrant, nostalgic visuals, winning praise for its sharp HD graphics and quirky art style. Critics celebrate its joyful animations and modernized aesthetic, though some note dated elements and minor issues like object pop-in. Overall, it’s a delightful visual experience that balances nostalgia with fresh appeal, despite a few lingering flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, particularly for their vibrant and nostalgic appeal. Reviewers like COGconnected praised the sharp and colorful HD graphics, noting that the remaster successfully translates the original's quirky art style to modern consoles. Critics from Atomix and Hardcore Gamer highlighted the nostalgic yet visually appealing experience, emphasizing that the remastered visuals enhance the overall aesthetic of the game. The unique and psychedelic art style, as described by Cubed3, along with the clean gameplay design, has been celebrated for its joyful animations and delightful environments. Nintendo Life and Starbit echoed these sentiments, pointing out the bright colors and crisp graphics that make the game visually stand out. However, not all opinions were entirely positive. Some critics pointed out that while the remaster improves on many aspects, certain elements still feel dated. Destructoid noted issues with pop-in for smaller objects, which can detract from the overall experience, especially on high-definition displays. Additionally, while the graphics are generally praised, some reviewers like GamingTrend suggested that the age of the game is evident in its visuals, implying that the remaster may not fully overcome its roots in the PlayStation 2 era. Critics like SpazioGames also acknowledged that while improvements are visible, the game still carries remnants of its original design, which may not appeal to everyone. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the graphics and visual design of We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie. The majority of reviewers appreciate the vibrant colors, charming art style, and the successful modernization of the visuals. Critics such as NintendoWorldReport and GamingBolt highlighted the game's ability to maintain its quirky charm while enhancing visual fidelity. The remaster has been recognized for its ability to evoke nostalgia while providing a fresh experience, making it a delightful visual treat for both new players and fans of the original game. Despite some minor criticisms regarding certain graphical limitations, the remaster is celebrated for its artistic integrity and engaging visual experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie boasts an acclaimed soundtrack that critics hail as catchy and vibrant, enhancing the game's whimsical charm. Personal playlists and nostalgic hits add to the experience, though some note issues like repetitiveness, missing character voices, and sound syncing flaws as drawbacks. Overall, the music is a standout feature, elevating gameplay despite a few criticisms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

76%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers, such as Nintendo Life and Atomix, have lauded the soundtrack for its quality and catchiness, describing it as "incredible" and "a banger for the ages." The game's vibrant and eclectic musical selection is consistently highlighted, with Cubed3 noting its ability to enhance the colorful atmosphere of the game. New features, such as the ability to create personalized playlists, have been positively received by COGconnected and GamingTrend, adding an extra layer of engagement for players. The quirky and wacky nature of the soundtrack, as mentioned by God is a Geek and Hardcore Gamer, complements the game's whimsical aesthetic, making the audio experience enjoyable and memorable. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics have pointed out certain drawbacks. For instance, Metro GameCentral expressed disappointment that the remastered soundtrack does not quite match the original's brilliance, while Meristation noted that the catchy tunes could become repetitive over extended gameplay sessions. Additionally, PlayStation Country highlighted the absence of character voices as a missed opportunity, which may detract from the immersive experience for some players. CGMagazine also raised concerns about sound design issues, such as improper syncing and missing loops, which could hinder the overall enjoyment for some. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie are largely successful, with most reviewers praising the catchy and diverse soundtrack that enhances the gameplay experience. Critics like We Got This Covered and Generación Xbox have emphasized the soundtrack's nostalgic and genre-defining qualities, while the inclusion of DLC options has been viewed as a positive addition. Overall, while there are some criticisms regarding consistency and repetition, the majority sentiment is that the game's audio presentation is a standout feature that contributes significantly to its charm and appeal.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie shines technically across most platforms, with critics praising smooth performance, impressive graphics, and responsive controls. The Nintendo Switch and PS5 versions receive high marks for seamless gameplay at 60 fps, while PC offers solid framerates. However, the Xbox Series X faces control and camera issues, and minor immersion hiccups were noted on PC. Overall, despite some platform-specific challenges, the game successfully modernizes the classic while retaining its charm—making it a hit among both new and returning players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

87%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various gaming platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, both Pocket Tactics and ZTGD praised the game's smooth performance in both docked and handheld modes, with ZTGD noting that the remake runs better than the original, highlighting the absence of loading times and slowdowns even in busy areas. On the PlayStation 5, the consensus is similarly strong, with Destructoid and GamingTrend affirming that the game runs well at 60 fps with short loading times, contributing to a seamless gameplay experience. Critics like Multiplayer.it and Push Square emphasized the impeccable technical performance, with no reported issues. On PC, CGMagazine and Worth Playing noted solid performance with improved framerates and control options, further enhancing the overall experience. However, not all platforms are without their challenges. On the Nintendo Switch, while the performance is generally good, specific critiques about the controls or camera were not highlighted, indicating a potential area for improvement. The Xbox Series X received mixed feedback from TheXboxHub, which pointed out control issues and a problematic camera, suggesting that these factors could detract from the overall experience despite the game's brilliance. Meanwhile, on PC, The Mako Reactor mentioned minor issues like a visible mouse cursor, which could slightly hinder immersion, although the overall performance remains strong. Overall, the consensus among critics is that We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie delivers a commendable technical performance across all platforms. The majority of reviews reflect a positive sentiment, with many praising the smooth gameplay, improved graphics, and responsive controls. Critics like Gamereactor Finland and Gamer Escape noted enhancements in presentation and performance, supporting the idea that the game has been well-received in its technical execution. Despite some minor issues on certain platforms, the general sentiment is that the game successfully modernizes the beloved classic while maintaining its charm, making it a worthwhile experience for both new players and long-time fans.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie is largely praised for its engaging mechanics and extensive replay value, with critics highlighting its addictive gameplay, new levels, and challenges. While some note the novelty may fade quickly and certain levels can be frustrating, the overall sentiment remains positive, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie is largely positive, with many critics praising the game's extensive content and engaging mechanics. Reviewers like Nintendo Life and Hardcore Gamer highlight the addictive gameplay loop and the addition of new levels, collectibles, and modes that enhance replayability. Critics such as Cubed3 and Starbit emphasize the game's depth, noting that the pursuit of 100% completion and the variety of extras can provide hours of entertainment. Additionally, the presence of high scores and challenges, as mentioned by God is a Geek and Screen Rant, further encourages players to revisit the game, making it appealing for both newcomers and returning fans. However, there are some criticisms regarding the replay value that should be noted. COGconnected points out that while the game is enjoyable, the bonus content may not significantly extend the overall time spent playing. Some critics, like Multiplayer.it, argue that the replayability is somewhat limited, suggesting that while players may enjoy revisiting levels, the novelty might wear off quickly. Furthermore, Impulsegamer mentions that certain levels can feel frustrating, which could deter players from returning. This sentiment is echoed by TheXboxHub, which notes that while collectibles add replay value, the new challenges may not meet expectations. Overall, the consensus among critics is that We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie offers substantial replay value, especially for fans of the series. While there are some concerns about the longevity of the experience, the combination of new content, diverse gameplay mechanics, and the pursuit of high scores creates an engaging environment that encourages players to return. Critics like Atomix and Gamereactor Finland affirm that the game provides a wealth of content and enjoyable experiences, making it a worthwhile addition to any gaming library. Despite some reservations, the game's charm and variety seem to resonate well with the majority of reviewers, indicating a positive reception overall.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

85%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its charm, creativity, and nostalgic appeal. Reviewers like Atomix and Nintendo Life highlight the game as a delightful remaster that offers both new players and fans of the original a worthwhile experience. The remaster is noted for its vibrant visuals, addictive gameplay, and a quirky narrative that resonates with players. Critics from COGconnected and Hardcore Gamer emphasize the game's innovative mechanics and level variety, while Cubed3 and God is a Geek commend the addition of the Royal Reverie mode, which enhances the gameplay experience. The remaster is generally considered a high point for the series, with many reviewers expressing their joy at revisiting this classic title. Despite the many accolades, several critics pointed out some drawbacks. COGconnected mentioned that the bonus content felt underwhelming, and there were concerns about potential repetitive gameplay. NintendoWorldReport described the remaster as an "incremental improvement," suggesting that while it offers a good entry point for newcomers, it may not fully satisfy long-time fans seeking significant advancements. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from Generación Xbox and TheXboxHub, noted that the controls have not aged well, which could detract from the overall experience for some players. These criticisms indicate that while the remaster is enjoyable, it may not be without its flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics is that We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie is a successful remaster that captures the essence of the original game while providing a fresh experience for both new and returning players. The majority of reviewers, including Destructoid and Push Square, recommend it as a must-play, praising its quirky charm and engaging gameplay. While some minor issues were noted, such as dated graphics and control challenges, the overwhelming sentiment is that the remaster is a delightful addition to the series, making it a worthy experience for anyone looking to enjoy the whimsical world of Katamari.

TL;DR

We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie is a hit remaster praised for its charm, vibrant visuals, and engaging gameplay, making it a must-play for both newcomers and fans. Critics celebrate its creativity and enhanced Royal Reverie mode, though some note minor flaws like underwhelming bonus content and dated controls. Overall, it’s a delightful addition to the series, capturing the essence of the original while offering a fresh experience.

MONSTER

Reviews

52 reviews found

100

ZTGD

Nintendo Switch

Jun 26, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer considers We Love Katamari to be one of the best games ever made, with the concept executed perfectly and the series losing focus after this title.

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We Got This Covered

PlayStation 5

Jun 26, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer considers We Love Katamari REROLL + Royal Reverie as a close to perfect remaster, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to play the game again. They hope a new audience discovers the joy of the series through these remasters.

Nintendo Life

Nintendo Switch

Jun 15, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is praised as a high watermark for video game sequels, with a terrific soundtrack and improved visuals. The remaster is considered the best way to experience the 2005 classic.

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Worth Playing

Aug 16, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is described as magical, charming, and fun. It provides a great experience that makes everyone smile and is considered a classic deserving a place in everyone's gaming library.

GamingBolt

PlayStation 5

Jun 8, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

We Love Katamari REROLL + Royal Reverie is an easy game to recommend with its addictive gameplay, hilarious story, fun visuals, and great soundtrack.

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God is a Geek

Nintendo Switch

Jun 5, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

We Love Katamari Reroll+ Royal Reverie is a lovely remaster of the Katamari series, offering a weird and wonderful experience with impressive variety in levels.

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Starbit

Nintendo Switch

Jun 19, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is described as a delightfully fun and difficult to put down experience. The adaptation of the audiovisual elements is praised, and the review concludes with positive points about the rewarding experience and the quality of the visual treatment.

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The Mako Reactor

Jun 6, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that We Love Katamari Reroll + Royale Reverie is pure joy despite a few technical issues and that it is worth playing for fans of the franchise. It also mentions that the reviewer will leave the game installed on all platforms.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Jun 11, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, We Love Katamari is considered a better game than its predecessor, filled with new content and improvements, making it a delightful experience.

CGMagazine

Jun 6, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

We Love Katamari REROLL + Royal Reverie is a charming and quirky remaster that retains the series' unique appeal. Despite some minor issues, it offers a delightful experience for both new and returning players.

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