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MONSTER

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

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

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

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TL;DR

Quirky, meta-driven storytelling blends heart and absurdity in We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie, though its gameplay-first focus and nonsensical twists split critics between playful charm and shallow depth.

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 story of We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie is widely praised for its quirky, meta-driven narrative and emotional depth, despite its absurd premise. Critics like Nintendo Life highlight its "kooky" storyline, where the King of All Cosmos drunkenly destroys stars, creating a whimsical setup for the Prince’s mission to restore them. NintendoWorldReport and Pocket Tactics note the game’s shift toward a meta-narrative, with missions tied to fan requests and flashbacks that humanize the King of All Cosmos, adding layers of humor and tenderness. Hardcore Gamer emphasizes emotional moments in the Prince-King relationship, while Metro GameCentral acknowledges its "surprisingly heartfelt" undertones despite surrealism. The game’s self-awareness—such as ZTGD’s mention of meta-commentary on its own success—resonates with critics who appreciate its playful irreverence and creative storytelling. However, some reviewers criticize the story for being secondary to gameplay or overly nonsensical. Destructoid and GamingTrend argue that the narrative serves more as a framework for the mechanics than a central focus, while Starbit and ZTGD describe it as "silly" and lacking in serious depth. SpazioGames notes the humor’s Japanese sensibilities might not appeal to all, and Gamer Escape calls the plot "simple," prioritizing gameplay over storytelling. Additionally, Push Square points out the fourth-wall-breaking elements can feel disjointed, and GameSpew reduces the story to a basic premise of collecting items. These critiques suggest that while the narrative is inventive, it may not satisfy players seeking traditional character development or coherent plots. Overall, critics agree that the story’s eccentricity and meta-commentary are its strongest assets, even if they don’t prioritize depth. Nintendo Life and Metro GameCentral praise its cleverness and emotional resonance, while Gamer Escape and GamingTrend acknowledge its role as a lightweight, gameplay-driven framework. The consensus leans toward appreciation for the game’s unique tone and creativity, with many reviewers recognizing that the story’s purpose is to enhance the experience rather than dominate it. Despite mixed reactions to its seriousness, the narrative’s blend of absurdity, nostalgia, and self-awareness aligns with the series’ identity, making it a memorable, if unconventional, component of the game.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

A whimsical, addictive experience where rolling a sticky ball to grow massive feels endlessly creative, with wild level designs and replayable charm—though clunky controls and occasional repetition dim its shine just enough.

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 is widely praised for its unique, addictive, and creatively diverse mechanics. Critics consistently highlight the core loop of rolling a sticky ball (the Katamari) to collect objects, grow in size, and complete varied objectives. Atomix and Nintendo Life emphasize the game’s addictive nature, noting how the sense of progression and scale—growing from tiny items to massive targets—keeps players engaged. COGconnected and Starbit praise the "wacky but unique" mechanics, while Destructoid and Push Square commend the imaginative level design, such as collecting fireflies or rolling a sumo wrestler. The inclusion of multiple characters, unlockable cosmetics, and challenge modes adds replayability, as noted by Nintendo World Report and Cubed3. Even critics like SpazioGames acknowledge that the game refines its formula with expanded objectives, making it feel both familiar and fresh. Despite these positives, some reviewers point to minor frustrations, particularly with controls and camera mechanics. Cubed3 and TheXboxHub mention that camera control can be problematic, while Hardcore Gamer and Screen Rant note that the controls are initially perplexing or "clunky." Nintendo Life and GamingBolt also touch on the challenge of mastering the analog stick-based rolling, which requires precision and planning. Additionally, some critics, like Metro GameCentral, suggest that the gameplay’s simplicity can feel repetitive at times, though this is often offset by the variety of missions. While these issues are acknowledged, they are largely seen as minor drawbacks rather than major flaws, with many reviewers emphasizing that the game’s charm and creativity outweigh such shortcomings. The overall consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie delivers a satisfying and enjoyable experience. Even critics on different platforms—Nintendo Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC—highlight its addictive core loop and creative level design. Nintendo Life and GamingBolt praise its replayability, while Destructoid and Push Square commend the expanded objectives that build on the original Katamari Damacy. Though some reviewers like TheXboxHub and Screen Rant mention control quirks, these are rarely seen as deal-breakers. Instead, the game’s unique charm, variety of challenges, and nostalgic appeal—combined with refinements over its predecessor—secure its place as a standout title. As CGMagazine and The Mako Reactor note, it feels like a significant step forward, offering both familiarity and innovation that resonates with fans and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics praise the remaster’s vibrant, modernized visuals while preserving its quirky charm, calling the art style "timeless," "surreal," and "delightful," though minor technical flaws like pop-in and dated textures on older hardware slightly dampen the experience.

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 majority of critics praised the graphics and visual design of We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie, emphasizing its successful modernization while preserving the original’s quirky charm. Reviewers like Nintendo Life highlighted the “crisp HD graphics” that bring the game into the present day, noting that the “bright colors pop” and the remaster “looks better than ever.” Cubed3 celebrated the “unique and psychedelic art style” with “joyful animations,” while Starbit and Screen Rant lauded the “aesthetically pleasing environments” and “charming cinematic sequences.” The game’s signature low-poly aesthetic, described as “timeless” by Gamer Escape and “surreal and absurd” by GamingBolt, was consistently viewed as a strength, with many noting how the remaster enhanced its visual appeal without losing its identity. Even on platforms like PC, CGMagazine praised the “quirky and colorful art style” that remains “inviting and unique,” reinforcing the consensus that the visuals are a standout feature. However, some critics pointed to technical limitations and minor flaws. Destructoid noted that while the PS5 remaster improved resolution, “smaller objects still pop in,” which became more apparent in high definition. Gamereactor Finland observed that the “‘Usual Stuff’ mode can appear bland” compared to the enhanced “Gorgeous” setting, suggesting uneven visual fidelity across options. SpazioGames and GamingTrend acknowledged that the game’s origins on the PlayStation 2 era are still evident, with GamingTrend stating the “age of the game shows in the graphics.” Additionally, TheXboxHub mentioned “some pop-in,” though they noted it didn’t detract from the overall experience. These critiques highlight that while the remaster is visually impressive, its technical shortcomings—particularly on older hardware—remain a point of contention. Despite these minor issues, the overwhelming consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive. The game’s visual design was consistently described as “lovely,” “delightful,” and “bonkers yet perfect” by reviewers like ZTGD and Push Square, who emphasized its ability to retain the original’s whimsical essence while benefiting from modern enhancements. While some platforms, like PS5 and PC, faced minor technical challenges, the majority of critics agreed that the remaster successfully updated the game’s look without compromising its artistic identity. Nintendo Life and Pocket Tactics both noted that the visuals “age well” and “fit the game’s quirky aesthetic,” underscoring that the graphical improvements—whether through higher resolution, vibrant color palettes, or refined animations—were seen as a significant upgrade. Ultimately, the reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the game’s visual design, with its charm and creativity shining through even amid technical imperfections.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie's vibrant, nostalgic soundtrack, blending quirky pop, orchestral flair, and beloved '90s nods to create an addictive, whimsical experience that elevates the game's charm—despite minor gripes over repetition and technical hiccups.

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 overwhelming consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie are a standout feature, celebrated for their creativity, variety, and nostalgic charm. Multiple reviewers praised the soundtrack’s ability to enhance the game’s whimsical atmosphere, with Nintendo Life calling it “absolutely incredible” and “a banger for the ages,” while Cubed3 described it as “mind-blowing” with a wide range of tracks that complement the game’s colorful world. The inclusion of Japanese lyrics, preserved for longtime fans, was highlighted by Atomix as a thoughtful touch, and the eclectic mix of pop, orchestral, and quirky tunes—such as the iconic Pac-Man melody mentioned by Starbit—was frequently noted as both catchy and memorable. Critics like Screen Rant and GamingTrend emphasized the game’s “catchy and addictive” songs, with the ability to curate playlists and unlock unique tracks through gameplay adding replayability. The soundtrack’s nostalgic appeal, particularly its ties to earlier Katamari Damacy games, was a recurring theme, with We Got This Covered praising its “legendary, genre-defining proportions” and Shibuya-kei pop influences that evoke warmth and nostalgia. While the majority of reviews lauded the music, some critics pointed to minor flaws or repetitive elements. Meristation noted that the “catchy soundtrack can become repetitive after several hours,” while CGMagazine criticized sound design issues like “improper syncing and missing loops” that detracted from immersion. Additionally, Metro GameCentral mentioned that the remaster’s soundtrack “isn’t as good as the original,” though it acknowledged the value of paid DLC adding tracks from earlier games. The omission of character voices in some versions was also a point of contention, as noted by PlayStation Country, and GamersRD observed that the King of Cosmos’s “scratchy voice” wasn’t particularly notable. These critiques, while present, were often framed as minor drawbacks rather than major issues, with many reviewers emphasizing that the music remained enjoyable despite these shortcomings. Overall, the critical reception of We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie’s sound design and music is overwhelmingly positive, with most critics agreeing that it elevates the game’s charm and replayability. The soundtrack’s diversity, nostalgic references, and infectious melodies were universally praised, as seen in the glowing reviews from Nintendo Life, Cubed3, and We Got This Covered. While a few reviewers pointed to repetition or technical issues—such as Meristation’s note on monotony or CGMagazine’s sound design flaws—these concerns did not overshadow the broader acclaim. The game’s ability to blend quirky, genre-defying music with playful sound effects, like the waggling arms mentioned by Push Square, solidified its reputation as a standout in the series. For fans and newcomers alike, the soundtrack remains a defining strength, capturing the spirit of Katamari Damacy while offering fresh, memorable experiences through DLC and dynamic gameplay integration.

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

Critics hail We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie as a technically flawless remake, with seamless performance, modernized visuals, and optimized mechanics across all platforms—Nintendo Switch’s smooth hybrid play, PS5’s 60fps polish and haptics, PC’s stable frame rates, and Xbox Series X’s solid base despite control quirks. Minor flaws like a visible mouse cursor or awkward camera settings were overshadowed by universal praise for its refined presentation and reliability, cementing it as a near-unanimous success.

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 received widespread praise across all platforms, with critics highlighting consistent smoothness, modernized visuals, and optimized mechanics. On the Nintendo Switch, Pocket Tactics noted seamless gameplay in both docked and handheld modes, while ZTGD praised the improved loading times and absence of slowdowns even in complex scenes. For the PS5, multiple reviewers lauded its technical polish: Destructoid emphasized higher-definition visuals compared to the original, Gamereactor Finland highlighted stable 60fps performance with adjustable settings, and GameSpew commended the modernized presentation and haptic feedback on the DualSense controller. On PC, CGMagazine described a "solid" port with improved frame rates and control options, while Worth Playing praised the Steam Deck’s smooth 60fps performance without graphical degradation. The Xbox Series X version, though less universally celebrated, still saw TheXboxHub acknowledge its technical strengths despite some control quirks. While most platforms received glowing reviews, a few minor negatives emerged. On the Xbox Series X, TheXboxHub pointed out "unwieldy and idiosyncratic controls" and a "problematic camera," though these issues were framed as surmountable for dedicated players. On PC, CGMagazine noted a "visible mouse cursor" as a minor flaw, and The Mako Reactor’s review hinted at platform-specific technical nuances without explicitly criticizing them. These critiques were largely overshadowed by the overall positive sentiment, with no major bugs or performance hiccups reported across platforms. The consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie delivered strong technical performance across all systems. PS5 reviewers like GamingTrend and Multiplayer.it praised its "impeccable" technical execution, while PC port specialists such as CGMagazine and Worth Playing highlighted its stability and optimization. Even the Xbox Series X version, despite its control issues, was recognized for its "technically solid" foundation. The game’s modernization, reduced load times, and consistent frame rates across platforms underscored its success as a polished remake, with only minor quibbles from critics rather than systemic flaws. This widespread acclaim reflects a near-unanimous endorsement of the title’s technical merits.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Most praise We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie for its addictive replay value driven by sprawling content, collectibles, and new challenges, though some critics find bonus elements lack depth, with overall enthusiasm outweighing minor flaws.

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 majority of critics praise We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie for its robust replay value, emphasizing its expansive content and mechanics that encourage multiple playthroughs. Cubed3 highlights the game’s “extras to roll up, tracking items, and aiming for 100% completion,” noting it could take a long time to fully explore. Similarly, Nintendo Life applauds the “solid replay value” from its addictive gameplay loop and diverse mechanics, while Starbit points out that additional elements like collectible presents and character variations double the time required for full completion. Hardcore Gamer and Gamereactor Finland also commend the remaster’s added storylines, secrets, and multiplayer options, which cater to completionists and casual players alike. The inclusion of new levels, such as those in the Royal Reverie expansion, is frequently cited as a key driver for replayability, with SpazioGames noting that “new challenges within stages” and “extra difficulty” keep the experience fresh. However, some critics express reservations about the game’s replay value, pointing to limitations in its design or content. COGconnected criticizes the “bonus content [that] is criticized for not extending the time spent with the game,” while Multiplayer.it argues that the replayability is “limited” despite enjoyable core mechanics. TheXboxHub mentions that new challenges “are not up to snuff,” and Impulsegamer notes that some levels in the Royal Reverie expansion may feel frustrating. Additionally, Destructoid suggests the game’s appeal for returning players is more about nostalgia than substantial new content, though it remains enjoyable for newcomers. These critiques highlight a tension between the game’s ambitious additions and their effectiveness in sustaining long-term engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics leans heavily toward positive assessments of We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie’s replay value, with most agreeing that its expanded content, mechanics, and modes provide significant incentive for repeated play. While some critiques about repetitive elements or underwhelming additions exist, they are overshadowed by the general enthusiasm for the game’s depth. Cubed3, Nintendo Life, and SpazioGames all emphasize how the game’s variety—ranging from collectibles to multiplayer modes—creates a compelling case for revisiting its world. Even critics with minor reservations, like COGconnected or Multiplayer.it, acknowledge the game’s inherent charm and addictive qualities. This balance of praise and constructive criticism reflects a title that, while not perfect, offers substantial value for fans and newcomers seeking a uniquely engaging experience.

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 majority of critics overwhelmingly praise We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie for its nostalgic charm, innovative gameplay, and faithful yet refined remastering. Reviewers like Atomix highlight its appeal to both newcomers and fans, calling it a “delightful experience” with “spontaneous fun,” while COGconnected lauds the creative gameplay, expanded level variety, and “excellent quality remastering.” Cubed3 and God is a Geek emphasize its content-rich nature and quirky, “weird and wonderful” appeal, respectively. The addition of the Royal Reverie mode is frequently cited as a standout feature, with Nintendo Life hailing it as a “high watermark for video game sequels” and Hardcore Gamer noting improved visuals and accessibility. Many critics, including Impulsegamer and Push Square, celebrate its “crazy and satisfying gameplay,” while ZTGD calls it a “stone-cold classic.” The game’s whimsical tone, addictive mechanics, and vibrant presentation—such as the “terrific soundtrack” praised by Nintendo Life—are consistently highlighted as strengths. Despite the praise, several critics point to minor drawbacks. NintendoWorldReport describes the game as an “incremental improvement at best,” while Pocket Tactics mentions control issues and “dated graphics” that detract from the experience. Metro GameCentral notes the soundtrack is “not as good” as previous entries, and Multiplayer.it criticizes its lack of depth. PlayStation Country points to content omissions, and Generación Xbox highlights controls that “have not aged well.” Some reviewers, like TheXboxHub, suggest that longtime fans might prefer the original Katamari Damacy, though they still recommend this version as a “charming experience.” While these critiques are varied, they often frame the issues as minor quibbles rather than major flaws, with many acknowledging the game’s overall polish and accessibility. The consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with most agreeing that We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie is a worthwhile and enjoyable experience. Destructoid calls it a “timeless and terrific game,” while We Got This Covered praises it as a “close to perfect remaster.” Even critics who note its shortcomings, such as CGMagazine and The Mako Reactor, acknowledge its charm and recommend it for fans of the series. The game’s ability to balance nostalgia with modernized mechanics, along with its unique humor and addictive gameplay, has solidified its reputation as a standout title in the franchise. While some critics like Metro GameCentral give it a slightly lower score (8/10), the general sentiment aligns with GamingBolt’s assertion that it’s “an easy game to recommend” for both newcomers and veterans. Ultimately, the majority of reviewers view We Love Katamari REROLL+ Royal Reverie as a successful remaster that captures the essence of the original while offering fresh content and improvements.

TL;DR

A whimsical, addictive remaster of Katamari Damacy that blends nostalgia with fresh gameplay, praised for its quirky charm, Royal Reverie mode, and refined presentation—though minor issues like dated graphics and controls linger, it’s a near-perfect, charming experience for fans and newcomers alike.

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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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.

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.

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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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.

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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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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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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