Written by: Chris W.

 

 

 

1998 saw the release of blockbuster titles such as 'Resident Evil 2', 'Tekken 3' and 'Spyro the Dragon' on the PlayStation, but, like always, there were some smaller and overlooked titles released, as well. Namco's (now Namco Bandai) Klonoa was one of these games, and admittedly I only played the demo back in 1998, never once getting around to playing the full game (shame on me, I know!)

 

Now in 2009, the game has been remade for the Wii, and, you know what? This time I've actually played it!

 

 

With Klonoa, you're not going to get any deep plot or thoughtful, layered characters, but it's not surprising given the younger target audience of the game. What is in there, is decent enough, with some ridiculously over the top baddies and a world that is manifested from the dreams of people.

 

Klonoa himself (a rabbit/cat like creature with long ears) is the typical platform character, seemingly possessing a real zest for life through his spirited attitude, oh and, of course, his springy actions.

 

 

 

Klonoa is a 2D/semi 3D platformer, with the camera winding along paths stylishly, as you jump your way through the colourful world of Phantomile. It's very old fashioned in some sense, although Klonoa himself does have a very interesting manner in which to rid himself of his enemies.

 

Jumping on their heads will only result in harm to Klonoa's health bar, instead his weapon of choice is the wind bullet, a ring that captures enemies, in which they can then be thrown (killing off other enemies if they make contact) or used as a jump hike in order to reach objects or ledges that Klonoa otherwise wouldn't be able to.

 

There are some enemies that wear shields that can only be removed by tossing other enemies into them and others that have to be attacked from the sky. Also, whilst the boss weaknesses are normally obvious, tossing enemies towards them is a real joy.

 

Levels (or visions as the game likes to call them) are linear, with different routes often leading you to collectibles. Speaking of which, there’s dream crystals to collect and finding 100 will reward you with an extra life, whilst lives can also be found in the form of silver or gold coins. There’s also captured villagers (72 of them) to seek out; if you find the lot you’ll unlock an additional level.

 

 

The game has various control options, with or without the nunchuck, and the classic or GameCube pad amongst them. Purists will perhaps choose to go with one of the pads, whilst those who go with the remote and nunchuck combo will find a very workable control scheme, and it’s even possible to use the motion sensing of the wii remote to choose the direction you want to lob the enemies in. The remote can also be used horizontally, which is another manner in which the game can be comfortably played.